Iron Horse Half Marathon
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Event overview
The Iron Horse Half Marathon is a point-to-point half marathon on Sunday, August 30, 2026, in North Bend, Washington. The race normally runs along the Palouse to Cascade Trail and the Snoqualmie Valley Trail, routes that follow former railroad grades. The course covers 13.1 miles with an overall elevation loss of about 880 feet (starts near 1,300 feet and finishes near 400 feet). For 2026 the Iron Horse trail sustained flood damage and the course will be re-routed; final course details will be provided by the organizer. A virtual half marathon option is offered; virtual participants receive a shirt and medal by mail and spots are limited.
- 13.1 miles - Half Marathon
- Virtual Half Marathon - same distance
Course, services and policies
The surface is unpaved hard-packed dirt and gravel, with some railroad trestles and flat sections; regular road running shoes are suitable. There are five aid stations on course stocked with Tailwind electrolytes and GU gels; aid stations are spaced about 2-3 miles apart. The event is cupless to reduce waste; runners are encouraged to use a handheld bottle, hydration pack, or a small reusable cup. Chartered shuttles transport participants from the finish to the start on race morning; finish line parking is at Meadowbrook Farm (1711 Boalch Ave NW, North Bend) and start line parking is not allowed. The race offers free gear check at the start but participants must bring their own bag. Overall awards are given to the top three male, female, and non-binary finishers by gun time, and age-group awards are given in five-year increments. The event supports the REI Cooperative Action Fund. Registration is non-refundable; deferral and transfer options are available under the organizer’s policies. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
