Deception Pass 50K

Event overview

The Deception Pass trail races take place at Deception Pass State Park near Oak Harbor, Washington on December 13 and 14, 2025. Distances offered:

• 50K
• 25K
• 1K Fun Run (kids)

The 50K has about 4,300 ft of elevation gain and 4,300 ft of loss; the 25K has about 3,000 ft gain and 3,000 ft loss; the kids 1K has about 30 ft gain and loss. Entry fees listed for the event were $160 for the 50K and $135 for the 25K; the kids 1K is free for children. Parking in the park requires a Discover Pass. Overnight parking is not allowed at the West Beach start/finish area; Quarry Campground has winter camping and Cranberry Lake Campground is closed for the season.

Course, aid and logistics

Both races start at West Point Amphitheater, run along Cranberry Lake, include about one mile on paved park roads, then move to mostly single-track trails. The course runs at times near sea level and at times on bluffs, and crosses Deception Pass Bridge twice (the bridge sits about 180 feet above the water). Trails include smooth sections and rocky or rooty technical footing; some hills are short but steep.

Course markings use yellow-and-black arrow signs and confidence ribbons about every 1/2 mile. Aid stations provide water, electrolyte drink, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, fruit, chips, pickles, cookies or candy, some gels, and basic first aid and feminine hygiene supplies. The 50K has four aid stations; the 25K uses one aid station. Drop bags are allowed at Bowman Bay for both races and at Cornet for the 50K. Leashed dogs are welcome. Crew support is limited to aid station areas; providing aid elsewhere on course is against the rules. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.