Backcountry Rise - Toutle, WA

Backcountry Rise - Toutle, WA

Backcountry Rise is a trail running event staged at the Mt. St. Helens Science & Learning Center on August 29, 2026. The venue sits above Coldwater Lake and faces the Mount St. Helens caldera; it functions as a base camp with a large dining hall, bathrooms, interpretive areas, a courtyard and pavilion.

The races use remote, mostly single-track loop courses on the Mt. Margaret Backcountry. Courses feature long climbs, steep descents, ridgeline views, high mountain lakes and creek crossings. A Friday community evening includes optional bib pickup, a spaghetti feed for participants and volunteers, and trivia and games.

Distances:

• 50K (one clockwise loop; 7,600 ft gain and 7,600 ft loss)
• 20 Miler (one clockwise loop; 4,800 ft gain and 4,800 ft loss)
• Half Marathon (clockwise loop around Coldwater Lake; 2,800 ft gain and 2,800 ft loss)

Aid stations: the 50K has three aid stations, the 20 Miler has two full aid stations, and the Half Marathon has two aid stations. Because of a road closure affecting access to Johnston Ridge Aid Station, an alternate route will be used for 2026.

50K entry requires prior mountain-ultra experience and specific gear. Qualifying experience includes completion of any trail 50K or completion of the Backcountry Rise 20 Miler, or other verifiable endurance results; road races do not qualify. Specific gear requirements are provided by the organizer. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.