Dark Divide Trail Races

Dark Divide Trail Races

The Dark Divide Trail Races are a multi-distance trail running event held in early September 2026 within the Dark Divide Roadless Area in the central Washington Cascades, inside Gifford-Pinchot National Forest. The organizer lists separate start days for each distance: the 100 Mile Endurance Run begins Friday, September 5 with a 48 hour cutoff; the 100K is a new point to point race starting Saturday, September 6 at Wright Meadow; and the 50K plus the 14 Mile Fun Run are scheduled for Sunday, September 7.

Race headquarters and the start/finish take place at Cispus Learning Center near Randle, Washington. Facilities at Cispus include showers, a kitchen, parking, and bunkhouses. Beds at Cispus may be reserved on UltraSignup for a fee of $43 at registration. Registration is open on UltraSignup.

The course runs through the rugged Dark Divide Roadless Area, characterized in the event material as steep technical trails, alpine ridges, meadows, old-growth temperate rainforest, waterfalls, and remote valleys. The organizer names several one-time cash prizes for the 100 Mile event, including time-based awards and rewards for repeat finishers, and notes that Silver Star Search & Rescue provides SAR, medical, and communications support. A portion of race proceeds will be donated to local organizations including Silver Star Search & Rescue, the All Play/Elementary Facilitation Program, and the White Pass Scenic Byway.

The event is held under a Special Use Permit from the U.S. Forest Service and takes place on lands of the Cowlitz, Xwáłxwaypam (Klikitat), and Yakama people. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.