Backcountry Rise - Toutle, WA

Backcountry Rise : Toutle, WA

Backcountry Rise is a trail race set in the Mt. Margaret Backcountry within the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, using the Mount St. Helens Science & Learning Center above Coldwater Lake as base camp. The event offers multiple loop course options that run through volcanic blast zone terrain with high mountain lakes, creeks, ridgelines and wildflower-covered slopes. Wildlife reported in the area includes mountain goats, elk, deer, bear, cougar and raptors.

Course characteristics vary by distance; the longer courses include sustained climbs, sweeping descents and exposed ridgeline sections. Because the terrain is remote and aid stations are spread far apart, the event specifies minimum gear for all runners, including on-course fluid capacity, a lightweight jacket and an emergency blanket, and a safety whistle. The 50K has an experience requirement that must be met before race day: a prior trail ultramarathon finish or a Backcountry Rise 20 mile finish.

Registration fees cover a fully marked course, parking, use of the Science & Learning Center, chip timing and live results, aid stations, professional medical support, a post-race meal, custom finisher awards and race photography. Camping and field camp options are available through the Mount St. Helens Institute. The organizers acknowledge that the event takes place on the traditional, unceded lands of the Cowlitz people. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.