Yakima Skyline 50k
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Yakima Skyline 50K - Overview
The Yakima Skyline 50K is an out and back trail race held on and above the Yakima River Canyon near Ellensburg, WA on lands that are part of the ancestral home of the Yakama people and associated tribes and bands. The course sits in a high desert rainshadow on the eastern side of the Cascade Mountains and is exposed to sun, wind and heat.
The route gains and loses approximately 9,200 feet over mostly single track and some rocky jeep road. Terrain includes long climbs, steep technical descents, rolling ridgelines and sections with loose rock. The course is marked with signs and confidence ribbons and reaches a ridge top with panoramic views of the canyon, the Yakima River and distant Cascade peaks. The midpoint turnaround is at the Buffalo Aid Station; the route returns to the finish along the same trail.
Aid support includes three full aid stations and one minimal aid station stocked with drinks, snacks, gels and basic first aid and hygiene supplies. Runners must be able to carry at least 32 ounces of water and will be required to show bottles or a hydration pack at bib pickup. There is no general crew access on course and drop bag service is available only at the Buffalo Aid Station.
The start and finish are on private riverfront property south of the Umtanum Creek Recreation Area. Primitive tent and small RV camping is offered on site with no hookups; additional campgrounds and lodging are available nearby. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
