Cutthroat Classic
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Cutthroat Classic
The Cutthroat Classic is a high alpine singletrack trail run through the North Cascades that follows the Pacific Crest Trail and crosses Cutthroat Pass. The course length is 10.5 miles and runs between Rainy Pass and the Cutthroat Creek Trailhead.
The route begins at Rainy Pass (elevation 4,870 feet) and follows the Pacific Crest Trail north on a steady, gradual climb of about five miles to Cutthroat Pass (elevation 6,835 feet). Runners then descend roughly four miles to Cutthroat Lake on many switchbacks with a five to ten percent grade, and continue about two miles of gradual downhill to the Cutthroat Creek Trailhead (elevation 4,480 feet).
Runners self-seed into six start waves and are asked to register for the same wave when running with a friend. There is one staffed aid station at mile seven offering energy chews, water, and sport drinks; aid station supplies are packed in by horseback, so runners are encouraged to carry personal fuel.
The event is organized by a nonprofit and proceeds support year-round trail operations in the Methow Valley. Registration policies include no refunds, exchanges, transfers, or rollovers after August 1, with a $50 refund fee and a $20 transfer fee prior to that date. The 2026 Cutthroat Classic, including waitlists, is sold out. Shuttle service runs between Mazama and Rainy Pass and return shuttles operate between the finish and Mazama. Parking is limited and a Northwest Forest Pass is required. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
