Ancient Lakes Trail Run

Event overview

The Ancient Lakes Trail Run is scheduled for April 11-12, 2026, at the Bishop Recreation Area near Quincy, Washington. The event offers multiple distances on a cloverleaf trail course through desert lake terrain and the Columbia River Gorge. The race is USATF sanctioned. Race entries are final; refunds and deferrals are not offered. Distance changes are allowed up to two weeks before the race, with no refunds for drop-downs.

Distances:

• 50 mile - about 51.5 miles, ~6,000 ft gain
• 50 km - about 34 miles, ~3,400 ft gain
• Marathon (26.2) - five loops, ~2,800 ft gain
• 25 km - three loops, ~17 miles, ~1,700 ft gain
• 10 km - one loop, ~700 ft gain

Course and logistics

The course uses a central aid station and a common start/finish/drop-bag area. The 25k loop is made of three smaller loops (red, green, blue) that begin and end at the same aid station; runners return to the start/finish after each loop. Trails are primarily single track with rolling terrain and no single climb or descent over 400 ft. Loop highlights include a waterfall and basalt outcroppings (red), canyon-like desert terrain and a lake (green), and a section along the Columbia River Gorge (blue).

All participants must carry a hydration system holding at least 16 oz. Aid stations are cupless and will provide water, electrolyte drink, and snacks; hot soup is offered later in the day. Drop bags are accessible after every loop. Pacers are allowed only for the 50 mile distance and must check in and wear a pacer bib. Crew access is limited to the start/finish area. Parking and packet pick-up are at the Bishop Recreation Area; advanced packet pick-up is not offered. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.