Beast Of Big Creek
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Beast of Big Creek Skyrace
Beast of Big Creek is a mountain trail race held on Mount Ellinor above Lake Cushman near Hoodsport, Washington in the Olympic Mountains. The event is part of the Skyrunner World Series and the USA Skyrunner National Series and runs over two race days in early August 2027.
The main Skyrace starts near sea level and follows a steep trail with a vertical kilometer section to the true summit. The route reaches a high point near mile 7 at about 5,944 ft and includes aid station access at mile 5.4 and mile 8.4. Aid stations offer water, Tailwind, soda, fruit, chips, pickles and basic first aid; there is no aid at the summit. The course begins and finishes at Big Creek Campground and the route layout may be slightly longer to manage runner flow.
The Forest Loop follows Big Creek trail through temperate rainforest with wooden bridge crossings and a high point near 2.6 miles. Runners should expect alpine exposure above tree line, variable early August weather, and potential trail insects such as yellow jackets and large horseflies. Courses are marked with bright ribbons and yellow directional arrows; staying on the marked trail is required and cutting the course may lead to disqualification.
Registration includes a race bib, aid and finish refreshments, a participant gift and shirt, chip timing, safety and medical support, and free entry to the Trail Running Film Festival screening on Saturday night. The event is cupless; runners should carry a collapsible cup and Skyrace runners are asked to carry at least 500 ml of water to the summit. Finishers prompt a tree planting and a portion of fees supports Olympic Mountain Rescue and local trail work. Skyrace prize money totals €4,000 distributed to top finishers. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
