About This Race
The Needles 50K stands as one of the Pacific Northwest's most demanding ultramarathons, threading a challenging loop through Washington's Central Cascades near Easton. This is a serious mountain endeavor that connects Domerie Divide, Thomas Mountain, French Cabin Mountain, Little Joe Lake, Thorp Mountain, Kachess Ridge (known locally as The Cardiac Needles), and Silver Creek in one formidable circuit. What sets this race apart is its fatass-style format: no aid stations, no course markings, no support crew. Runners must carry all their calories and treat their own water from mountain creeks. The sparse infrastructure matches the zero entry fee, creating a pure, self-reliant mountain running experience that demands both physical preparation and backcountry skills. With approximately 10,000 feet of elevation gain packed into 31 miles, the Needles requires graduate-level mountain running fitness. The course's reputation for difficulty is well-earned, featuring sustained climbs, technical descents, and exposure to alpine conditions. This race attracts experienced ultrarunners seeking a test of self-sufficiency in some of the Cascades' most rugged terrain.
The Needles 50K follows a demanding loop through the Central Cascade Mountains, linking major peaks and ridgelines via technical singletrack and exposed alpine terrain. The route traverses Domerie Divide before ascending Thomas Mountain and French Cabin Mountain, then continues to Little Joe Lake and the challenging ascent of Thorp Mountain. The notorious Kachess Ridge section, dubbed The Cardiac Needles for its punishing gradient, represents one of the course's most difficult segments.
Runners encounter varied terrain from forested singletrack to rocky alpine ridges, with multiple creek crossings that serve as the only water sources. The course demands strong navigation skills due to the absence of markings, and the 10,000 feet of elevation gain is distributed across numerous sustained climbs that test both physical conditioning and mental resolve.
Elevation Profile
The course gains 2,238 ft over 31 miles, with the steepest section between mile 45–mile 45.
Course Map
Route shown is approximate and for illustration purposes. Download GPX file
Notable Features
The Needles 50K embraces the fatass ultra philosophy with zero entry fees and zero support, creating a pure test of self-reliance in the mountains. Runners must carry all nutrition and treat creek water, while navigating an unmarked course through some of the Cascades' most challenging terrain, making it as much a backcountry adventure as a race.
Prepare for This Race
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A tested guide to the best hydration vests for ultra marathons and long trail races — from lightweight racing vests to high-capacity mountain packs.
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