Cirque Series - Crystal Mountain

SEP
19
2026
Experience a 7.9 mile mountain race at Crystal Mountain featuring a 2614 foot vertical gain. Runners reach a high point of 6861 feet at Grubstake while enjoying views of Mt Rainier and the Cascade Range.
Sat 19 Sep 2026
8 miles

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Crystal Mountain Running Event

The Cirque Series at Crystal Mountain takes place in Washington on a course that covers 7.9 miles with a total elevation gain of 2,614 feet. The race is capped at 700 participants and features a route located within the Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.

The course begins at the Crystal Mountain base area and follows the Kelly's Gap service road for approximately 1.7 miles. Runners then transition to the Green Valley trail to reach the summit of Grubstake, which serves as the highest point of the race at 6,861 feet. The path continues south along the summit ridgeline, passing the gondola and Summit House.

Participants navigate a steep and technical section connecting to the Crystal Mountain Trail. The route passes through Powder Bowl, Bear Pits, and under the Forest Queen chairlift. After passing Elizabeth Lake, the trail enters a forest leading toward Henskin Lake and eventually links with the Silver Creek Trail. The final segment passes old mining camps and emerges at Gold Hill before returning to the base area.

A strict cut-off time of 1.5 hours is enforced at the Crystal Mountain summit. Competitors who do not meet this limit must take the gondola back down. The event includes a vendor village with music and product demonstrations. Registered runners receive a snapback hat, a logoed bib, a medal, and a swag bag. Professional race photos are provided to all participants. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

8 mi
Course