Grey Rock Trail Runs

The Grey Rock Trail Runs return to Yakima, Washington on July 11th, offering runners a challenging yet scenic experience in the Cascade Mountains of south central Washington State. This event has been running for sixteen years and is renowned among trail enthusiasts who seek both natural beauty and physical challenge.
Participants will find themselves immersed in the rugged terrain of Ahtanum State Forest, starting at Tree Phones Campground where they'll embark on a single-track out-and-back trail that winds through diverse landscapes. The higher elevation keeps temperatures cooler than one might expect for midsummer days in Washington, though by noon runners should be prepared to face warmer conditions and potentially strong sun exposure as the day progresses.
The race honors its longstanding tradition with awards presented to the top three male and female finishers across both distances: a 25K course that offers breathtaking views of Mt. Rainier and Mt. Adams along steep climbs, and a shorter yet equally demanding 12K option for those looking for an intense but more manageable run in these majestic surroundings.
The Grey Rock Trail Runs trace their roots back to the early days of Yakima's vibrant running community when local enthusiasts first mapped out this challenging course through some of Washington’s most striking wilderness areas. Now, it has become a significant event on regional calendars, attracting runners from across the state and beyond who come not only for the challenge but also to support an annual charity initiative.
The 25K route is known for its grueling elevation gain totaling over 3,500 feet, making it essential that participants train accordingly. The trail features a mix of rocky sections and smoother forest paths as it winds through open ridges and dense forests, with the course marked by clear signage but requiring careful navigation due to its technical nature.
Runners will have aid stations set up at the 25K turnaround point, providing water, electrolyte drinks, power bars, and gels. However, given the demanding profile of both distances offered, participants are strongly advised to carry their own hydration supplies and snacks for sustained energy throughout the race duration.
Weather conditions on July 11th typically feature average temperatures around 25.9°C (78.6°F), with a high chance of sunshine reaching up to fourteen hours and twenty-two minutes daily. While there's minimal rainfall anticipated, humidity levels are low at an average of 31.7%, allowing for comfortable but warm running conditions throughout the day.
To secure your spot in this year’s edition, visit https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=134847 to register online where you'll find options for both the full and half-distance events at $55 and $45 respectively. A custom short sleeve tech fabric T-shirt is included with registration if ordered by June 30th; otherwise, availability cannot be guaranteed on race day.
On race morning, make sure to arrive early—check-in begins thirty minutes before each start time—and don’t forget your WA State Discover Pass for parking at Tree Phones Campground. A short pre-race briefing will precede the official kick-off of both races from this picturesque starting point in the heart of Washington's Cascade Mountains.
As the Grey Rock Trail Runs draw near, Yakima’s summer landscape and community spirit come alive to welcome runners back once more on July 11th for another unforgettable day of trail running excellence.