Willapa Trail Festival

Willapa Trail Festival - Nov 7, 2026

The Willapa Trail Festival is a set of trail footraces based at Owl and Olive Cafe near Chehalis, WA, running along the Willapa Hills Trail and the banks of the upper Chehalis River. The course follows an old rail grade with wide double track and mostly hard packed gravel surface, and is described as flat and fast. From the start location runners head east on the trail to a turnaround, then return west to the start and finish. The 50 mile and 100 mile distances include an additional out and back section to the west.

Distances

• 100 Miler
• 50 Miler
• 50K
• 25K
• 5K

Aid stations are provided in varying numbers: two to three stations for the 5K, 25K, and 50K; one additional station on the 50 mile west out and back; and seven stations on the 100 mile route. Stations will offer water, electrolytes, candy, cookies, chips, fruit, and gels. The overall cutoff for the 100 mile is 34 hours; there are no overall cutoffs for the 25K, 50K, or 50 mile but aid stations will close at posted times.

OlyTrailRunners, a non profit, organizes the event and keeps entry fees low. Fees listed for 2026 are $20 for the 5K, $30 for the 25K, $35 for the 50K, $50 for the 50 mile, and $100 for the 100 mile. A portion of profits supports trail maintenance and local communities. Parking and some camping are available at Owl and Olive; dogs are welcome on leash. The 100 mile course surface includes approximately 96 miles of improved packed gravel and 4 miles of pavement. 2026 permit pending. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.