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Race guide · Washington, USA
How to train for the Chuckanut 50K
A flat 10K out, 30K over the Chuckanut Mountain ridge, then a flat 10K home. Here's what to know and how to get ready.
Next race Sat Mar 20, 2027
| Distance | Climb | Start | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50K | 31 mi | ~5,000 ft | Sat 8:00 AM |
Starts and finishes at Fairhaven Park in Bellingham. Early start at 7:00 AM, mass start at 8:00 AM.
What makes it hard
A fast start, then the ridge
The first 10K on the Interurban Trail is flat and smooth, then the middle 30K climbs about 5,000 ft.
Train for it: Practise steady climbing after a quick start, and don't race the opening 10K.
Technical ridge running
The famous ridge section is technical and exposed to the elements.
Train for it: Technical descents and ankle strength, on the roughest trail you can find.
March in the Pacific Northwest
Weather is variable: cold, wet and muddy is normal.
Train for it: Train in the rain and dial in your layers and shoes for mud.
How long to train
Plan on 12–16 weeks for the 50K if you're already running 4–5 days a week. Save energy for the flat 10K back to the finish.
Get a plan built around race day
Set Chuckanut as your goal race and VertPro builds your training back from the start line, then adapts week to week. A Vert.run coach reviews your plan in the first 24 hours.
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How much elevation gain is the Chuckanut 50K?
About 5,000 ft, almost all of it in the middle 30K on Chuckanut Mountain. The first and last 10K are flat.
When is the Chuckanut 50K 2027?
Saturday, March 20, 2027, from Fairhaven Park in Bellingham, according to the organiser. Always confirm on the official race site.
Race facts checked October 2, 2026 against chuckanut50krace.com. Confirm dates and rules with the organiser. Vert.run is not affiliated with the race.