Backcountry Rise

Nestled within the awe-inspiring Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument lies the Mt. Margaret Backcountry, where nature's resilience and beauty are vividly displayed against the backdrop of one of America’s most dramatic volcanic landscapes. This region, which emerged from the devastation left by the 1980 eruption, offers a unique trail running experience that challenges even the most seasoned runners.
Backcountry Rise features three distinct race options: a grueling 50K loop, an intense 20-mile course, and a half marathon circuit around Coldwater Lake. Each route is designed to showcase the area's rugged terrain, sweeping vistas of snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, rushing creeks, and abundant wildlife.
The event headquarters are located at the Mt. St. Helens Science & Learning Center, an observatory perched above Coldwater Lake that offers stunning views of Mount St. Helens' caldera. This family-friendly venue provides a comfortable base camp with amenities such as dining facilities, restrooms, interpretive exhibits, and expansive outdoor spaces for socializing.
Participants can look forward to engaging in community activities on Friday night, including an optional bib pickup, spaghetti dinner, trivia games, and other fun events that foster camaraderie among runners and volunteers. The venue’s prime location makes it the perfect setting for a memorable weekend of trail running and adventure.
The 50K course is particularly demanding, featuring one continuous loop with nearly all single-track trails and an elevation gain/loss of 7,600 feet each way. Runners are advised to have previous experience in mountain ultra races or similar endurance events before registering for this challenging route. Safety gear requirements include items like a GPS tracker and emergency shelter.
The 20-mile race follows a large loop with approximately 98% single-track trails, offering about 4,800 feet of elevation gain and loss. This course also includes remote sections that require careful navigation and preparedness for changing weather conditions.
For those seeking a more moderate challenge, the half marathon around Coldwater Lake presents a scenic route with an elevation change of 2,800 feet up and down. Both this race and the longer distances provide aid stations strategically placed to ensure runners can stay hydrated and fueled throughout their journey.
Due to recent road closures affecting access to certain aid stations, alternative routes for both the 50K and 20-mile races are being planned for future events. Detailed maps of these alternate courses will be available on the official event website well in advance of race day.
Backcountry Rise is more than just a competition; it's an opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural beauty and tranquility of this rejuvenated landscape, all while pushing physical limits and connecting with fellow trail runners from around the globe.