Willapa Trail Festival
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About the race
The Willapa Trail Festival is a multi‑distance trail event in Chehalis, WA, organized by the Oly Trail Runners. The festival is centered at Owl and Olive Cafe and uses the Willapa Hills State Park Trail, an old rail grade that runs along the Chehalis River and through rolling terrain in southwest Washington. The trail is flat and wide double track with a mostly hard packed gravel surface.
Distances offered:
- 100 mile
- 50 mile
- 50K
- 25K
- 5K
Aid station arrangement varies by distance. The 5K, 25K, and 50K have 2 to 3 aid stations. The 50 mile course includes one additional aid station on the westward out and back. The 100 mile course includes seven aid stations on its extended out and back. Aid stations are stocked with water, electrolytes, and common ultra fare such as candy, cookies, chips, fruit, and gels. Drop bags are available at most stations on the 100 mile course. Restrooms are available at multiple locations along the route.
Race logistics and policies note a 34 hour overall cutoff for the 100 mile distance. There are no overall cutoffs for the 25K, 50K, or 50 mile distances, but aid stations will close at posted times and runners should plan to carry supplies if they expect to be on course after those closures. Pacers are allowed from 50K onward. The 100 mile finisher receives a ceramic belt buckle.
Oly Trail Runners is a nonprofit; entry fees are listed per distance and a portion of proceeds supports trail maintenance and local communities. The 2026 permit is pending. Some sections of the west end of the trail may undergo construction that could alter the 100 mile course to a double of the 50 mile course on improved surfaces. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.