Deception Pass Half Marathon

Overview

The Deception Pass Half Marathon and 10K take place at Deception Pass State Park in Washington. The park is known for its rugged coastline, steep cliffs, dense forests, and dramatic channel between Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands. Both races start and finish at the East Cranberry Lake Picnic Area.

Distances

• Half Marathon: The course is 13.1 miles long with an elevation gain of 2,100 feet. It crosses the Deception Pass Bridge twice, about 180 feet above the water, and runs on trails near Rosario Head, Lighthouse Point, and Lottie Point.
• 10K: The course is 6.2 miles long with an elevation gain of 1,100 feet. It is a loop on the south side of the Deception Pass Bridge.
• The Double: This option consists of running both the half marathon and the 10K on the same day, for a combined total of 19.3 miles and 3,300 feet of elevation gain.

Course & Logistics

Both races begin on low-traffic paved park roads for 0.75 miles before transitioning to single-track trails. The terrain is described as often rocky and rooty, with short but sometimes steep hills. A Discover Pass is required for vehicle parking within the state park; day or annual passes can be purchased online or at park kiosks.

Aid Stations & Support

Aid stations provide water, an electrolyte drink, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, fresh fruit, chips, pickles, cookies, candy, and a variety of gels. First aid supplies and feminine hygiene products are also available.

• The half marathon has two aid stations.
• The 10K has one aid station.
• "The Double" runners access three aid stations.

Half marathon runners can use a drop bag at the Bowman Bay aid station. Crew access for spectators is only permitted at the start/finish area and, for the half marathon, at the Bowman Bay aid station.

Post-Race

A post-race party at the finish area features fresh pizza, local beer and cider, other food and drinks, and music. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.