The Ruff - Carson, WA

The Ruff - Carson, WA

The Ruff is a trail race organized by Elevated Trail Racing at the Dog Mountain Trailhead in Carson, WA. The event date is November 22, 2026. The course distance is 7 miles run entirely on single track trails, using the Dog Mountain Trail to the summit and the Augspurger Trail for the descent.

The route climbs about 3 miles and 3000 ft to the summit, then descends about 4 miles to the finish. The course offers views of the Columbia River, Mt Hood to the south, and Mt St. Helens to the west. The race starts and finishes at the Dog Mountain Trailhead.

Race logistics include bib pickup on the morning of the race from 8:00 AM to 9:45 AM at the Dog Mountain Trailhead. Parking is limited and the organizer requests carpooling when possible. Registration closes Friday, November 20 at 11:59 PM PT. Published entry fees range from USD 33.50 to USD 53.50.

Awards are given to the top three male and female finishers, top masters male and female, and first place male and female receive a pair of Inov-8 shoes. Additional 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; participants may win only one award.

Food and drink will include beer provided by Ninkasi Brewing Company and pizza provided by Backwoods Brewing Company. Well behaved dogs are welcome. The event is held under a special use permit in partnership with the US Forest Service and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Elevated Trail Racing states compliance with USDA nondiscrimination policy. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.