Klickitat Trail Run

The Klickitat Trail Run returns to Klickitat, Washington on November 7th, offering both a half-marathon and a 5K run/walk for runners of all ages. This year’s event will be held at the Jerry Lynch Community Center, formerly known as the Klickitat Youth Center, located at 92 Main Street in Klickitat. Participants can expect to start their race early on a crisp autumn morning with clear skies and firm trail conditions.
Race day begins before sunrise when temperatures hover around the low 40s Fahrenheit, gradually warming up through mid-morning as runners make their way along the scenic Klickitat River. The trail winds alongside canyon walls that are adorned in fall foliage, providing a picturesque backdrop for both seasoned runners and casual walkers alike. Runners will encounter firm terrain with sections slightly softened by recent rains, offering a challenging yet manageable course.
The Klickitat Trail Run has been an annual tradition since its inception, raising funds to support the local school district and community center. Over the years, it has attracted hundreds of participants from across Washington State who come together not only for competition but also in solidarity with their shared commitment to supporting youth education and recreational facilities within the Klickitat area.
The course winds through a picturesque trail network around 92 Main Street, starting just outside the Jerry Lynch Community Center. The half-marathon route stretches over challenging yet rewarding terrain that includes several elevation changes along its roughly 13-mile stretch from Lyle Trail Head to the start location in Klickitat. Aid stations are positioned at strategic points every few miles to provide water and energy snacks for runners throughout their journey.
For race day, expect clear skies with a UV index of just above low levels during daylight hours, making it comfortable yet important for participants to wear sunscreen if needed. Temperatures range from the mid-30s in early morning hours up into the upper 50s by noon, providing an ideal setting without extreme weather conditions that might hinder performance.
The Klickitat Trail Run features a half-marathon and a 5K run/walk option for adults as well as a free Youth category (12 & under). Each distance offers unique challenges and rewards within the scenic trails of Klickitat.