Volcanic 50
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Event
Volcanic is a trail race at Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument near Cougar, Washington. It takes place on August 1–2, 2026 and starts and finishes at Marble Mountain Sno Park. The event includes these distances:
- 50K
- 25K
Courses and requirements
The 50K course circumnavigates the mountain, running mostly on the single-track Loowit Trail and covering about 32 miles. The route crosses lava, boulder and pumice fields, fords rivers, passes through the blast zone and dense forest, and includes steep drainages with some rope assists. The course has approximately 7,400 feet of elevation gain and 7,400 feet of loss. Entry for the 50K requires completion of a prior trail 50K or a previous Volcanic 25K; registrants must provide a link to that prior result.
The 25K course uses sections of the Loowit Trail and features boulder fields, a debris flow, woodsy trails and a steep downhill. It involves about 3,200 feet of elevation gain and loss. The 25K does not have a prerequisite.
Mandatory gear for the 50K includes at least 40 oz of water, a lightweight water-resistant jacket, an emergency blanket, and a whistle.
Logistics and services
Field sizes are limited: 50K capacity 285, 25K capacity 325. Registration opens February 1, 2026 and closes July 24, 2026; published entry fees vary by date ($155–$185 for the 50K; $90–$120 for the 25K), not including processing fees. Marble Mountain Sno Park allows car-camping the night before the race; there is no running water and limited space for vehicles. A NW Forest Pass is not required for the sno park. Organizers provide aid stations, post-race food and drinks, a finisher pint glass, and awards for top finishers and age groups. Cancellation more than 30 days before the race yields a 50% credit toward a future event; cancellations within 30 days receive no credit. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
