Cascade Express Marathon
North Bend, United States • 12 Sep 2026
Downhill Racing in the Pacific Northwest
The Cascade Express Marathon and Half Marathon takes place in North Bend, Washington. The event features point-to-point courses on the gravel surface of the Palouse to Cascades Trail. These courses are designed with a consistent downhill gradient through the Cascade Mountains.
Participants can choose from two primary distances:
- Marathon (42.195 km)
- Half Marathon (21.097 km)
The Marathon course includes approximately 1,400 feet of total elevation loss. The route begins at the Hyak Trailhead, featuring an out-and-back section along Keechelus Lake before entering the 2.4-mile Snoqualmie Tunnel. The path then continues downhill across railroad trestles and past various waterfalls toward the finish at Homestead Valley Trailhead. Both distances are USATF certified, and the marathon serves as a Boston Marathon qualifier.
The Half Marathon course starts at Hyak and enters the Snoqualmie Tunnel within the first half mile. Runners experience 800 feet of gradual descent over the 13.1-mile distance. Due to the tunnel section, participants are required to bring a headlamp.
Parking is available near the start line at the Summit I-90 Ski Area, with a shuttle bus service provided to transport runners from the finish line back to the parking areas. Registration includes a technical shirt, a custom finisher medal, and a drop bag service. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.