Green River Marathon
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Event Overview
The Green River Marathon is a free, volunteer-organized running event scheduled for early June. The 2026 edition marks the 30th annual running of the event. It is a low-key, non-commercial run.
Distances and Formats
Participants can enter the full marathon, a half marathon, a 50K ultramarathon, or a relay. Relay teams can have any number of participants, and runners in the past have covered distances from 2.5 to 22.5 miles as part of a team.
Course and Location
The run traditionally begins at the intersection of the Green River Trail and the Interurban Trail in South Kent, Washington, near Foster Park. The finish has historically been at Alki in Seattle, in front of Spud's Fish and Chips, offering views of Seattle, Puget Sound, and the Olympic Mountains. The course is described as very flat with two short hills late in the run. Note: The course was altered in 2020 for safety reasons.
Event Details and Philosophy
The event operates on a donation model, with suggested donations supporting event costs and the charity Northwest Harvest. Historically, donations have been matched. The run emphasizes a communal, informal atmosphere with no entry fees or formal awards. Participants often gather for a meal at the finish. Limited return transportation may be available by prior arrangement.
In past years, the event has implemented specific safety measures, such as requiring participants to carry their own water bottles, social distancing, and staggered start times. It has also been run as a virtual race. The event is organized by volunteers, including race director Steve Barrick. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
