About This Race
Beast of Big Creek stands as North America's only race in the Skyrunner World Series, bringing seventeen years of Pacific Northwest mountain running tradition to the iconic summit of Mount Ellinor in Washington's Olympic Mountains. This true mountain race challenges runners with steep trails that climb from the shores of Lake Cushman to commanding views across the Olympic Peninsula. The 2026 edition marks a milestone as Rock Candy Running welcomes international skyrunning talent to experience the best of what the region offers. The race embodies the raw character of the Olympic Mountains, where dense forests give way to alpine terrain and the Pacific Northwest's signature blend of technical trail and sustained climbing. Mount Ellinor's prominence above Hood Canal provides a dramatic backdrop, while the course's design emphasizes the pure mountain running that defines skyrunning competition. With just 300 spots available and a seven-hour time limit, the race maintains an intimate scale that allows runners to fully engage with the mountain environment. As part of both the Skyrunner World Series and USA Skyrunner National Series, Beast of Big Creek attracts serious mountain runners seeking qualification opportunities and competitive racing at the sport's highest level. The race operates under special use permits with the USDA Forest Service, reflecting a commitment to responsible trail use and environmental stewardship that has characterized the event throughout its history.
The skyrace follows a demanding out-and-back route from Big Creek Campground to the summit of Mount Ellinor, gaining 5,300 feet of elevation over 14 miles of technical mountain terrain. The course runs entirely on singletrack trails through Olympic National Forest, beginning in dense Pacific Northwest forest before transitioning to increasingly alpine conditions as runners approach the summit. The terrain is 100% trail with significant technical sections that require careful footing and mountain running skills.
The summit of Mount Ellinor provides expansive views across the Olympic Peninsula, Hood Canal, and the Cascade Range before runners begin the technical descent back to the start/finish at Big Creek. With only two aid stations supporting the route, the course demands self-reliance and efficient fueling strategies typical of skyrunning competition.
Aid Stations
2 stations along the course
Aid Station 1
Aid Station 2
Practical Info
August conditions in the Olympic Mountains typically feature warm, dry weather with temperatures ranging from 50-70°F, though mountain weather can change rapidly.
Big Creek Campground provides on-site camping options under National Forest Service regulations, with additional lodging information to be announced.
Best For
Notable Features
Beast of Big Creek holds the distinction of being North America's only Skyrunner World Series race, bringing international mountain running competition to the Pacific Northwest. The race's seventeen-year history on Mount Ellinor has established it as a cornerstone event in the region's trail running calendar. The course's technical nature and the summit's commanding views of the Olympic Peninsula create a genuine mountain running experience that reflects the pure spirit of skyrunning competition.