Elk-Kings Trail Races
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Elk-Kings Trail Races
The Elk-Kings Trail Races take place in the Tillamook Forest within Oregon's Coast Range. This event features a lush rainforest environment characterized by giant ferns, towering trees, and technical terrain along the Wilson River. The races are based at the Smith Homestead, located near the Tillamook Forest Center.
Participants can choose from three distinct distances:
- 50 km: This course follows the Wilson River Trail and involves approximately 6,400 feet of elevation gain and loss. The route consists of mixed terrain, including smooth dirt sections and rockier paths near the river.
- 25 km: A technical route that requires scrambling up rocky paths. Runners summit both Elk Mountain and Kings Mountain before a steep descent that leads back to the Wilson River Trail. This course includes significant exposure.
- 11 miles: A point-to-point course on the Wilson River Trail with 2,100 feet of gain and 2,400 feet of loss. It avoids the steep summits and exposure found in the 25 km distance.
All participants park at the Jones Creek Day Use Area and are shuttled to the respective start lines. The Smith Homestead serves as the central hub for bib pickup and the finish line. Post-race activities include a celebration at the finish with refreshments and an awards ceremony for top finishers and age-group categories. Every finisher receives a commemorative pint glass. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
