A scenic 13-mile loop around Coldwater Lake in the Mt. St. Helens blast zone
Other trail races within 87 miles
The Backcountry Rise Half Marathon is a 13.2-mile clockwise loop around Coldwater Lake, the same sapphire lake formed when the 1980 Mt. St. Helens eruption dammed Coldwater Creek with a massive landslide. The route drops from the Science & Learning Center to the lake shore, follows serene rolling singletrack along the water, then climbs the Coldwater Trail to South Coldwater and descends back via a flowing 3-mile trail to reconnect to the Lakes Trail and a final climb home. With 2,800 feet of gain on 90% singletrack, it delivers a genuine mountain trail experience in one of the Pacific Northwest's most dramatic volcanic landscapes.
Suitable for first-timers
Toutle, WA, United StatesAugust 29, 2026
| Location | Mile | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
Start/Finish - MSH Science and Learning Ctr Start | 0.0 | 3,071 ft |
Aid 1 - Coldwater Creek Aid Station | 4.6 | 2,579 ft |
Aid 2 - South Coldwater Aid Station | 9.6 | 2,566 ft |
Finish - MSH Science and Learning Ctr Finish | 12.8 | 3,071 ft |
Sign in to see cutoffs, crew access, drop bags, and services for every aid station.
Camping is included in the race registration fee. Car camping in the large paved parking lot is free. Field camping (tent sites) is $20/night, reservations through Mt. St. Helens Institute (Friday night only, 33 sites for 100 people). No hookups. RV/trailer parking available in upper lot. Facility has running water and flush toilets (24hr during event). No showers or food for purchase on-site besides the post-race meal.
No required gear specified
No recommended gear specified
No reviews for this event yet. Be the first to share your experience!
