Cutthroat Classic

Cutthroat Classic

The Cutthroat Classic is a high-alpine trail run in the North Cascades scheduled for September 12, 2026. The event is limited to 400 participants. Entry is $115 per person; kids 17 and under race free but must register. Runners self-seed into six start waves, with Wave 1 intended for elite runners. Age divisions are: 17 and under, 18-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70+. There are no entry refunds, exchanges, transfers, or rollovers after August 1; a $50 refund fee and a $20 transfer fee apply prior to that date. Registration insurance is available through RunReg. Bib pick-up locations include Cascades Outdoor Store in Winthrop and Mazama Community Club in Mazama. Lunches will be provided by Willow Brook Farm, and participants over 21 receive one free pint from Old Schoolhouse Brewery.

Course and logistics

The course follows the Pacific Crest Trail on singletrack from Rainy Pass, climbs to Cutthroat Pass, then descends to Cutthroat Lake and finishes at the Cutthroat Creek Trailhead. Elevations: Rainy Pass starts at 4,870 ft, Cutthroat Pass at 6,835 ft, and the Cutthroat Creek Trailhead at 4,480 ft. The route climbs about five miles to the pass, descends about four miles to the lake with many switchbacks on 5 to 10 percent grades, then continues gradually downhill for about two miles. Total course length is 10.5 miles. There is one aid station at mile seven stocked with energy chews, water, and sport drinks; supplies are packed in by horseback, so runners are encouraged to carry personal fuel. The event is cupless; runners must carry a bottle, collapsible cup, or hydration pack for refills. Parking at start and finish is limited and a Northwest Forest Pass is required (one-day pass $5 available at the trailheads). Shuttles provide transport between Mazama and Rainy Pass and return shuttles run from the finish to the after party. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.