Rainier to Ruston Relay
Tacoma, United States • 6 Jun 2026
Rainier to Ruston Relay
The Rainier to Ruston (R2R) is a team relay event covering approximately 50 miles in Washington State. The course begins in the foothills of Mount Rainier and follows a route toward the Ruston Way waterfront in Tacoma. The event uses the Foothills Trail, a regional path that connects the mountain toward the Puget Sound. One specific section of the course includes a "Puyallup sand leg."
Participants can enter as teams in several configurations:
- Teams of 2 runners
- Teams of 3 runners
- Teams of 4 runners
- Teams of 6 runners
The event concludes on the grassy waterfront in Ruston, where participants can find a craft beer garden and food. Awards, referred to as Rainier to Ruston spikes, are presented across multiple categories. The relay is supported by over 100 volunteers, and proceeds from the event benefit the Foothills Rails-to-Trails Coalition. This nonprofit organization focuses on the stewardship and expansion of the trail system, including maintenance of paved sections and restoration of local salmon streams.
The route offers views of Mount Rainier and passes through forested areas and local communities. Typical logistics for the event involve teams traveling in support vehicles between exchange points along the course. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.