Backcountry Rise - Toutle, WA
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Backcountry Rise - Toutle, WA
Backcountry Rise is a trail race held in the Mt. Margaret Backcountry on the northern blast zone side of the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. The event uses the Mount St. Helens Science & Learning Center above Coldwater Lake as its base camp and gateway into the backcountry.
The event offers three looped race options:
- 50K
- 20 mile
- Half Marathon
The 50K and 20 mile courses include long climbs, sweeping descents, and ridgeline sections with views of the blast zone and nearby Cascade volcanoes. The half marathon follows a loop around Coldwater Lake. High mountain lakes, creeks, and wildlife such as mountain goats, elk, deer, bear, cougar, and raptors are frequently present on and near the courses.
The venue provides parking and camping; use of the Science & Learning Center is included with race registration. Field Camp tent sites are available by reservation for a fee. The Center has running water and flush toilets but no shower facilities and no onsite gasoline or electric vehicle chargers. Registration opens February 1 and race fees vary by registration period.
Due to the remote and exposed nature of the terrain and significant distances between aid stations, mandatory gear is required for all entrants. The 50K also has an experience requirement to demonstrate prior trail ultramarathon or equivalent backcountry race finish. All participants receive a custom finisher award; a portion of proceeds supports the Mt. St. Helens Institute. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.