Elk-Kings Trail Races
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Elk-Kings Trail Races
Elk-Kings takes place in the Tillamook Forest in Oregon’s Cascade Mountains, based at the Smith Homestead near the Tillamook Forest Center. The event returns in 2026 and continues a local trail-running tradition that began 13 years ago.
Distances offered:
- 50K covers the full Wilson River Trail out and back, 6000' gain and loss.
- 25K summits Elk and Kings mountains on steep, technical single-track.
- 11-mile point-to-point runs the Wilson River Trail with 2100' gain and 2400' loss.
The 25K includes hands-on scrambling and exposed sections; the descent features steep, quad-taxing terrain. The 50K follows river-side trail with a mix of smooth dirt ribbon and rockier sections and does not climb Elk or Kings. The 11-mile stays on the Wilson River Trail and avoids the summit exposure of the 25K.
Logistics: all racers park at Jones Creek Day Use Area and use shuttles to the starts; Smith Homestead is the bib pickup location and finish area. Photo ID is required for bib pickup. There is no parking at the start lines and no overnight or car camping at Jones Creek or Smith Homestead. Potties are available at Smith Homestead and the starts. Shuttle rides are about 10 minutes.
Entry fees vary by date:
- 50K: $130 / $145 / $155
- 25K: $85 / $105 / $115
- 11-mile: $55 / $65 / $75
The race uses a wait list that is free to join; a card is charged only if a wait-list invite is accepted. There are no transfers or refunds. Cancellations more than 30 days before the race receive a 50% credit toward a future Go Beyond Racing event; cancellations within 30 days receive no credit.
Post-race provisions include beer, hard cider, and sparkling water, live finish-line results, awards for top finishers including men, women, and non-binary categories, age-group awards, raffle prizes, and an Elk-Kings pint glass for every finisher. October weather can be variable; participants are advised to bring layers. The event acknowledges the traditional homelands of the Tillamook, Siletz, and Clatskanie Tribes. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
