Trail running course through mixed terrain in Oregon, USA
Perpetua Coast

Perpetua Coast — 20 Miles

20 Miles·4,846 ft gain·Yachats, Oregon
foresttrailcoastalpoint to pointloop

Photo by Claudio Grande on Unsplash

Distance20 Miles
Gain4,846 ft
DateOct 3, 2026
Difficulty2/5

About This Race

The 20-mile distance strikes a balance between significant challenge and manageable scope, appealing to runners bridging the gap between standard trail races and ultra territory. This option provides substantial training value for marathon and ultra preparation without the full commitment of longer distances. Runners experience a thorough sampling of the course character while maintaining the ability to push pace in the latter miles.

The Saturday courses feature lollipop-loop designs that showcase the full spectrum of Oregon Coast terrain. Runners begin in the coastal village of Yachats before ascending through moss-draped old growth rainforest to reach Cape Perpetua's 800-foot summit, the highest viewpoint on the Oregon Coast. The descent offers stunning ocean vistas and access to rocky shoreline sections and sandy beaches.

Sunday's point-to-point races provide a different perspective, with shuttle transport to elevated starting points and scenic descents toward the ocean finish. All courses traverse the diverse ecosystems of the Cape Perpetua National Scenic Area, from dense temperate rainforest to exposed coastal headlands, creating an immersive experience in one of Oregon's most scenic regions.

Elevation Profile

Elevation profile estimated from terrain data. Actual course may differ.

The course gains 4,846 ft over 20 miles, with the steepest section between mile 17–mile 17.

Location

Practical Info

Weather

October generally offers pleasant coastal conditions, though runners should prepare for variable weather including sun, clouds, wind, rain, and fog typical of the Oregon Coast.

Nearest Airport

EUG - Eugene Airport

Accommodation

The Adobe Resort serves as race headquarters and offers discounted rates for participants. Additional lodging and camping options available throughout Yachats.

Best For

Scenic trail runnersCoastal running enthusiastsFirst-time ultra runners (20-mile distance)

Notable Features

Perpetua Coast offers an unmatched diversity of Oregon Coast scenery within a single race weekend. The event's staging at Cape Perpetua, the highest point on the Oregon Coast, provides runners with commanding 70-mile shoreline views and access to protected old growth rainforest. The two-day format accommodates different experience levels while maintaining the scenic character that has made this one of the Pacific Northwest's premier coastal trail running events.

Other Distances at This Event

50K

5,666 ft gain

The Saturday courses feature lollipop-loop designs that showcase the full spectrum of Oregon Coast terrain. Runners begin in the coastal village of Yachats before ascending through moss-draped old growth rainforest to reach Cape Perpetua's 800-foot summit, the highest viewpoint on the Oregon Coast. The descent offers stunning ocean vistas and access to rocky shoreline sections and sandy beaches. Sunday's point-to-point races provide a different perspective, with shuttle transport to elevated starting points and scenic descents toward the ocean finish. All courses traverse the diverse ecosystems of the Cape Perpetua National Scenic Area, from dense temperate rainforest to exposed coastal headlands, creating an immersive experience in one of Oregon's most scenic regions.

Perpetua Coast Half Marathon

1,056m gain

The Saturday courses feature lollipop-loop designs that showcase the full spectrum of Oregon Coast terrain. Runners begin in the coastal village of Yachats before ascending through moss-draped old growth rainforest to reach Cape Perpetua's 800-foot summit, the highest viewpoint on the Oregon Coast. The descent offers stunning ocean vistas and access to rocky shoreline sections and sandy beaches. Sunday's point-to-point races provide a different perspective, with shuttle transport to elevated starting points and scenic descents toward the ocean finish. All courses traverse the diverse ecosystems of the Cape Perpetua National Scenic Area, from dense temperate rainforest to exposed coastal headlands, creating an immersive experience in one of Oregon's most scenic regions.

Perpetua Coast 10K

1,727m gain

The Saturday courses feature lollipop-loop designs that showcase the full spectrum of Oregon Coast terrain. Runners begin in the coastal village of Yachats before ascending through moss-draped old growth rainforest to reach Cape Perpetua's 800-foot summit, the highest viewpoint on the Oregon Coast. The descent offers stunning ocean vistas and access to rocky shoreline sections and sandy beaches. Sunday's point-to-point races provide a different perspective, with shuttle transport to elevated starting points and scenic descents toward the ocean finish. All courses traverse the diverse ecosystems of the Cape Perpetua National Scenic Area, from dense temperate rainforest to exposed coastal headlands, creating an immersive experience in one of Oregon's most scenic regions.