The Ruff - Carson, WA

The Ruff - Carson, WA

The Ruff is a 7-mile trail race that starts and finishes at the Dog Mountain Trailhead in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. The course is run entirely on single-track trails, rising approximately 3 miles and 3,000 ft to the summit of Dog Mountain and then descending about 4 miles via the Augspurger Trail. The route offers views of the Columbia River, Mt Hood to the south and Mt St. Helens to the west.

Bib pickup occurs the morning of the race at the Dog Mountain Trailhead from 8:00 AM to 9:45 AM. Parking at the trailhead is limited, so participants are asked to carpool when possible.

Awards are given to the top three male and female finishers, top masters male and female, and the first male and female overall; first place finishers receive a free pair of Inov-8 shoes. Separate sponsor awards include King and Queen of the Mountain for first male and female and a Downhill Award for the fastest male and female downhill time; an individual may win only one award.

Food and drink provisions include beer from Ninkasi Brewing Company and pizza from Backwoods Brewing Company. Well behaved dogs are welcome on the course. The event is held under a special use permit in partnership with the US Forest Service, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, and Elevated Trail Racing LLC follows applicable federal non discrimination policies. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.