Kachess Ridge 50
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About the race
Kachess Ridge 50 is a point to point trail event in the Cascade Range that offers two distances.
- 50K
- 50M
The course begins near Lake Kachess and climbs through forest into alpine meadows before following Kachess Ridge. Runners pass expansive ridgeline sections with wide views toward Chikamin Ridge, Mt. Daniel, the Stuart Range, and the valleys that hold Lake Cle Elum and Lake Kachess. The route tops out at the Thorp Mountain Lookout at 5,853 ft, where participants retrieve a token before descending toward the finish at the Salmon La Sac SnoPark. Camping, post race food, and festivities are available at the finish.
This is a remote course with steep and technical trail sections and substantial elevation gain: about 6,500 ft for the 50K and about 12,000 ft for the 50M. The event is cupless; runners must carry refillable containers. Required gear includes a light rain or wind jacket and 2 L water capacity for the 50K, and a headlamp plus the same for the 50M. Both distances require the course GPS file on a phone or watch.
Logistics include shuttles to the start, designated aid stations with standard ultra nutrition and some hot food options, drop bag locations by distance class, and crew access at specific aid stations. Pacers are not allowed. The event acknowledges lands historically inhabited by Np̓əšqʷáw̓səxʷ Wenatchi, Yakama, and Coast Salish peoples. Finishers receive a handmade woodle and a race t shirt. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
