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DIFFICULTY Advanced
This rugged, remote, and challenging 50K+ course is run entirely on single-track trails, circumnavigating Mt St Helens, an active volcano in Washington state.
All but 4.5 miles are run on the Loowit Trail.
Racers travel over lava and pumice fields, cross rivers, run through the blast zone, as well as through dense forest. In all, the course involves ~7400 ft of elevation gain and loss.
This is a very challenging race and we require runners have completed a previous 50K.
Elevation: Very little change < 500 metres. Benign running terrain, not technical. Suitable for: First ultra runners completing a marathon or doing regular long distance running in the last six months.
Elevation: Increase of up to 1000 metres Suitable for: Runners who have completed at least one ultra distance race (or similar event) or are doing long distance running (>26 miles) regularly, with elevation shown.
Elevation: Increase of up to 1500 metres Suitable for: Runners who have completed several ultra distances or similar events, or are doing long distance running regularly, with elevation shown.
Elevation: Increase of up to 2000 metres with some challenging climatic conditions (e.g. ice, snow, humidity or heat) and or technical terrain Suitable for: Experienced runners who have completed at least regular ultra distances in last 12 months, or are doing regular long distance running (>50 miles) with elevation and conditions shown (where possible). Admission to these races may be subject to evidence of recent qualifying race participation and recent medical examination certificate. Check with the race organiser regarding entry requirements.
Elevation: Increase of up to 2000 metres with very challenging climatic conditions (e.g. ice, snow, humidity, heat or at high altitude) and or technical terrain. Suitable for: Very experienced long distance ultra runners (min 3 years’ experience) or are doing regular long distance running (>50 miles) with elevation and conditions shown (where possible). Admission to these races is often subject to evidence of recent qualifying race participation and recent medical examination certificate. Purchase of specialist kit is often recommended for these races.
Type: An ultra distance race including at least two of the following activities such as running, swimming, cycling, kayaking, skiing and climbing. It may also include different climatic conditions (eg ice, snow, humidity, cold water, mud or heat). Suitable for: Experienced multi-skilled athletes who have trained for the different activities included in this event. Admission to these races may be subject to receipt of a recent medical examination certificate. Check with the race organiser regarding entry requirements and any specialist equipment required such as a wetsuit, skis or a mountain bike.
Type: A virtual race which can be run at any time shown on the dates shown, on any type of terrain in any country. Suitable for: For runners from beginners to experienced as you choose your own course and challenge based on the guidelines and options set by the virtual race organiser.
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2017. Incredible. Beautiful trail with stunning views, wildflowers, good-humored volunteers, tip-top RDs, and a super friendly vibe. This is a race I could do again and again---and probably will.
thanks for organising this amazing race: an international must-do for any ultrarunner. Excellent logistics and aid stations, and epic scenery. I was able to get a climbing permit for a few days after the race, for the ultimate all-round view of this scenic and destructive mountain.
Ultimately my hardest race. It's only a 50k but they say to expect a 50 miler pace and they are right on. This was my 2nd year running this course. Go Beyond Racing does and exceptional job of marking their course, providing excellent aid stations, up-to-date information leading to the event and a great after party. Both years we've been challenged by mother nature, but the terrain and elevation profile provide their own special challenge. Running is not mindless as the views are endless, who wouln't want to run up, around and over a mountain that errupted?
The trail around Mt. St. Helens is absolutely breathtaking, leaving you breathless by its beauty and breathing hard by its ruggedness. Since erupting in 1980, the volcano has been a prime example of the power of nature. The terrain is very technical, weaving in and out of blown away forests, fields of lava rocks, endless stream crossings, and a blast zone that feels like you're running on the moon. The trail is very exposed, providing endless views of the surrounding Cascade Mountain Range and nearby volcanoes, including Mt. Raininer, Mt. Adams, Mt. Hood, and Mt. Jefferson. Heards of Elk are also present on the Northwest side of the mountain, and 40 of them crossed the trail in front of me during the race in 2014.This race runs like a 50 miler, despite that fact that it's only 32+ miles. Expect this to be one of the hardest and most scenic 50k races you'll ever do. I mean, it's a race around an active volcano. How cool is that?!
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