Baker Lake 50k
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About the race
The Baker Lake 50k is a 31.2 mile trail run around Baker Lake in the Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. The course runs mostly along the eastern shoreline of the lake and passes through stands of old growth and regrowth Douglas fir that followed an 1843 eruption and fire. The route features mossy, slippery footbridges, small creek crossings, a Baker River suspension bridge, and a log crossing at Anderson Creek equipped with a cable.
Flower species commonly seen along the trail include western trillium, twinflower, foamflower, coralroot, and twisted stalk. The course is single track in many sections, rolling with repeated climbs and descents, and includes roughly 6800 feet of total elevation change with about 3400 feet of ascent and 3400 feet of descent. Aid stations are limited because of the remote setting: two water-only stations at roughly miles 5.1 and 10.6 (and repeats later), a halfway station at about mile 15.6 with water, soda, gels, snacks, and toilets, and a stocked finish area with food and beverages. A tarp at the start is used for drop bags to be delivered to the halfway point. The event begins and ends at Kulshan Campgrounds at Baker Lake where ample parking and free camping are available on a first come first served basis.
Public access to one viewing point on Baker Lake Road requires a forest service pass and a drive over partially paved and gravel roads. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
