Yakima River Canyon Marathon
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Yakima River Canyon Marathon and Half-Marathon
The event offers point to point marathon and half marathon distances on a USATF certified course along the paved Washington State Route 821 between Ellensburg and Selah, Washington.
- Marathon: 26.2 Miles
- Half Marathon: 13.1 Miles
The marathon course follows the Yakima River downstream on an asphalt surfaced highway and features two major hills, many curves, and a long downhill section near the finish that produces a net elevation loss of a few hundred feet. The half marathon starts at the 13.1 mile mark of the marathon course and is also point to point.
Aid stations are placed approximately every 2 to 3 miles and supply water, Powerade, and basic medical aid such as band-aids and petroleum jelly. Medical personnel and restrooms will be available along the course. Drop bags may be left at a designated vehicle at the Ellensburg gathering area on race morning; these bags are supervised but the organizers do not assume responsibility for lost or stolen items.
Logistics and entries: registration opens October 6, 2026 and closes March 6, 2027. The entry fee is $85 with a $10 price increase after February 27. Registration is online only; there is no in-person registration on the day before or on race day. The half marathon is limited to 200 entries due to bus logistics; there is no stated limit for marathon entries. Marathon early starts are available with director approval for runners who expect longer course times; early starters are not eligible for age-group awards.
Race headquarters and packet pickup locations include the Selah Civic Center at 216 South First Street, Selah, Washington, and the Days Inn in Ellensburg. The entry package is non refundable and includes a T-shirt, race-day transportation when needed, a finisher medal, and a finisher certificate. Awards for overall and age groups are presented at the finish in real time. The course is open for seven hours and participants who do not finish within the cutoff will be transported to the finish area. Spectator access is limited to the start, the finish, and the Thrall Road intersection with Canyon Road. No bicycles or baby joggers are allowed on the course. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
