Alpine peaks above clouds at golden hour

Grand Ridge

5 miles, Half Marathon, Marathon, 50K·Issaquah, Washington
ultra50kforesttechnicaltrailhalf marathonloopmarathonbeginner friendly

Photo by Samuel Ferrara on Unsplash

Distance5 miles, Half Marathon, Marathon, 50K
Gain
DateNov 7, 2026
StatusTBA
FeeFree
Difficulty3/5

About This Race

Grand Ridge serves as the season finale for Evergreen Trail Runs, offering a multi-distance celebration in Washington's Cascade foothills. Set within Grand Ridge Park's extensive trail network developed by the Washington Trails Association since 2000, runners traverse lush Pacific Northwest forests sustained by the region's abundant rainfall. The race features five distance options from a kids' race to 50K, making it accessible to runners across experience levels. The November timing showcases the region's golden fall colors among moss-covered trees and fern-laden forest floors. Despite nicely graded trails, the course delivers substantial climbing that challenges runners while remaining runnable for the trail running community.

The race utilizes two distinct loops: a 5-mile loop and a longer half-marathon loop of approximately 14 miles. All distances begin at the Highpoint Way Trailhead, following the Issaquah-Preston Trail for 0.5 miles before ascending rocky, technical switchbacks to the course junction. The longer distances continue up Grand Ridge with a detour to the Flowing Fir Trail before reaching the Duthie Aid Station. Marathon runners complete two half-marathon loops, while 50K runners tackle two half-marathon loops plus the 5-mile loop. The trails remain open to other users including pedestrians and cyclists during the event.

Aid Stations

2 stations along the course

Duthie Aid Station

water, Tailwind, Clif products, PBJ sandwiches, fruit, cookies, crackers, pretzels

Volunteers assist with snacks one participant at a time

Grand Ridge Aid Station

water, Tailwind, Clif products, PBJ sandwiches, fruit, cookies, crackers, pretzels

Practical Info

Weather

November conditions in the Pacific Northwest typically feature cool temperatures, high humidity, and potential rain with vibrant fall foliage.

Required Gear
  • Refillable water container

Best For

Trail running enthusiastsRunners seeking fall sceneryMulti-distance event participants

Notable Features

This cupless race serves as the Evergreen Trail Runs series finale where series awards are distributed. The event showcases the extensive trail network built by the Washington Trails Association in the heart of the Cascade foothills, featuring the region's signature moss-covered forests and fern understories. The race acknowledges its location on Indigenous Coast Salish lands, specifically the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe territory.