Mckenzie River Trail Run

McKenzie River Trail Run

The McKenzie River Trail Run is a 31 miles (about 50K) trail ultramarathon near Blue River, Oregon. The course follows the McKenzie River corridor and passes two waterfalls, Clear Lake, lava flows, old growth forest, numerous log bridges and the aquamarine Tamolitch Pool.

The run begins at Carmen Reservoir off Highway 126 and, after a short gravel section and the Waterfalls Trail, goes around Clear Lake to the Santiam Wagon Road. The route continues through Clear Lake resort, crosses Highway 126, then follows the McKenzie River Trail approximately 21 miles downriver to the finish across from the McKenzie River Ranger Station. The final route may be altered if winter storm damage requires a safe alternative.

Aid stations are placed about every 4 to 6 miles and provide water, electrolyte drink, gels and typical aid station food. The race is cupless; runners must use a reusable cup, flask or bottle. Drop bags can be deposited at shuttle pickup for delivery to Aid 3 at mile 16.7. Cutoffs are enforced beginning at Aid Station 2 near mile 11.5 and the race intends to have runners off course by mid afternoon for safety.

The entry fee includes shuttle service between the McKenzie Community Track, start, and finish. The event is operated under a special use permit from the Willamette National Forest. Net proceeds support McKenzie Bridge area nonprofits. Awards are given to overall and age group finishers, with categories for male, female, and non-binary. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.