Daybreak Racing presents Backcountry Rise, a high‑elevation trail running festival featuring a Half Marathon, 50K, and 20‑Miler, all staged from the Mt. St. Helens Science & Learning Center overlooking Coldwater Lake. It’s set in the regenerating Mt. Margaret Backcountry, a landscape reborn after the 1980 eruption.
???? Race & Scenic Experience
- Half Marathon: Saturday at 8:00 AM PDT, a clockwise loop (13.1 miles) around Coldwater Lake, with ~2,800 ft of climbing/descent and two aid stations.
- 50K: Saturday at 7:00 AM, a single loop offering 7,600 ft gain/loss, nearly 98% single-track, and only three aid stations in remote terrain. Expect panoramic views of Mt. Rainier, Adams, Hood, and lush ridgelines.
- 20‑Miler: Sunday at 7:00 AM, using an alternate clockwise course (4,800 ft elevation change) with two aid stations and Coldwater Peak out‑and‑back.
This backcountry terrain challenges even experienced runners with soft footing, steep sections, and significant exposure—but delivers unforgettable wildflower-lashed ridges and wildlife sightings. As one Redditor noted, “Everything is runnable but the trail is pretty soft so the uphills are a challenge… It’s an awesome race.”
???? Why It Stands Out
Backcountry Rise is trail running elevated: remote, alpine, and intimate. With limited field sizes and high self‑reliance, it delivers a true mountain ultra experience: wilderness on a single-track, minimal infrastructure, but maximum vistas. Days may feel epic, but so do the post-race meals, community atmosphere, and return to nature.
Backcountry Rise immerses trail runners in the rugged beauty of Mt. St. Helens’ backcountry: extensive elevation gain, stunning volcanic landscapes, and minimalist race support. It’s a true mountain trail experience—self-reliant, scenic, and unforgettable. Perfect for runners chasing challenge, community, and raw wilderness.
