Mckenzie River Trail Run
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McKenzie River Trail Run : Blue River, OR
The McKenzie River Trail Run is an ultramarathon of 31 miles (about 50K) along the McKenzie River corridor near Carmen Reservoir. The course follows established trails and river corridor features including two waterfalls, Clear Lake, lava flows, old growth forest, numerous log bridges and the aquamarine Tamolitch Pool where the river emerges from an underground lava tube.
The event traces a route that begins at Carmen Reservoir, follows the Waterfalls Trail, crosses Highway 126, passes around Clear Lake to the Santiam Wagon Road and Aid 1, goes through Clear Lake resort, crosses back over the highway and then follows the McKenzie River Trail roughly 21 miles downriver to the finish across from the McKenzie River Ranger Station. Organizers note that winter storm damage may require a safe alternative route; the final route is announced shortly before the event.
Aid stations are placed approximately every 4-6 miles and provide water, electrolyte drink, gels and typical aid foods. The race is CUPLESS; runners should bring a reusable cup, bottle or flask. Drop bags deposited at the shuttle pickup at the McKenzie Community Track will be delivered to Aid 3 at about mile 16.7. Cutoffs are enforced beginning at Aid 2 near mile 11.5 and the event is run with an overall time limit of about eight hours.
The 2026 running is the 38th annual edition. Net proceeds support McKenzie Bridge area non-profits. Entry includes a shuttle between the Community Track and the start and finish, and the entry fee for 2026 is $115. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
