Overview
The Cascade Express Marathon and Half Marathon are legendary for speed and scenery, ranked among the fastest courses in the United States and one of the top Boston Qualifier marathons with a BQ rate of over 34%. This is your chance to chase a personal record or lock in that Boston dream on a course that’s as inspiring as it is fast.
Imagine yourself gliding down a point-to-point gravel trail framed by the Cascade Mountains, Keechelus Lake shimmering beside you, and the thrill of a gentle net descent carrying you toward the finish. Whether you’re gunning for a PR, your first Boston Qualifier, or simply a memorable race experience, the Cascade Express delivers beauty, community, and unforgettable momentum from start to finish.
Sunday, June 22, 2025
Registration
Opens
TBD
Closes
TBD
Registration Fee
$115
Official race details:
Course
Distance:
13.1
M
Course type:
Unknown
Elevation gain:
▲
150ft
Elevation loss:
▼
950ft
Max altitude:
2600ft
Start time:
Jun 22, 2025
7:00 AM
Cutoff time:
12:30PM
Course Description
The Cascade Express Marathon and Half Marathon are fast, scenic, and unique experiences in the heart of the Cascade Mountains. The marathon covers 26.2 miles with a net downhill of 1,500ft, carrying runners past Keechelus Lake and into a gorgeous stretch of the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail. The half marathon, equally stunning, follows a 13.1 mile point-to-point route that includes the unforgettable 2.4-mile Snoqualmie Tunnel. Both courses are gravel trail, smooth and runnable, with jaw-dropping mountain views that will keep you smiling all the way to the finish line.
Highlights include:
stunning views of the Cascade Mountains
gliding alongside Keechelus Lake
a 2.4-mile adventure through the Snoqualmie Tunnel
gentle continuous downhill to carry you toward a personal best
Logistics
The closest airport is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), approximately a 1 hour drive from the race start. Nearby cities with lodging and dining include Snoqualmie, North Bend, and Issaquah.
Driving Directions
Parking
Free parking is available at the Summit I-90 Ski Area, about a 10-minute walk from the start line. Paid parking is available at the Hyak Trailhead with Discover Pass or $10 fee. Spectator parking at the finish line is along SE Homestead Valley Road, with a 1 mile walk to the finish area. Shuttle service runs between the finish and start line.
Passes Required
Lodging
Snoqualmie, North Bend, and Issaquah provide a wide range of hotel and lodging options within a short drive to the start line.
Aid Stations
Aid stations are located every 2–3 miles on both marathon and half marathon courses, stocked with water and electrolyte drinks to keep you strong and hydrated. Portable toilets are located approximately every 5 miles, and medical personnel are stationed at the start, finish, and key points along the course to support runners. Course marshals are present to guide you and ensure safety throughout the day.
Race Requirements
The Cascade Express is open to runners of all experience levels. With generous cutoffs and full support, this race is beginner-friendly while also offering an incredible chance for seasoned runners to set new personal records.
Trail Work
Policies
Cancelations & Deferrals
Crew, Pacers & Spectators
Crew and spectators are welcome at the Cascade Express. Best viewing locations include the Hyak Trailhead at the start, the Snoqualmie Tunnel entrances and exits, and the finish lines at Cedar Falls Trailhead and Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail. Visitors must follow all parking instructions and stay clear of the race course.
Volunteers
Volunteers are a key part of the Cascade Express experience. Opportunities include course marshaling, aid station support, medical support, and finish line hospitality. Sign up to volunteer at https://runsuperseries.com/volunteer
Land Acknowledgement
We acknowledge that this event takes place on the traditional lands of the Coast Salish peoples, including the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe. We honor with gratitude the land itself and the Indigenous peoples who have stewarded it throughout generations.
About
Run Super Series
Run Super Series is a dynamic and community-driven race organizer based in Washington State, offering one of the most diverse and exciting collections of road and trail running events in the Pacific Northwest. From accessible 5Ks to challenging 100-mile ultras, this race series is designed by runners, for runners, delivering memorable experiences that blend scenic courses, thoughtful race support, and signature personal touches.
Their events span iconic locations across Washington, including Seattle, North Bend, University Place, Everett, and Quincy. Participants can expect breathtaking backdrops—from Lake Union and the Snoqualmie Tunnel to the golden hills of the Washington desert and the dramatic views of Chambers Bay. Whether it’s a fast Boston-qualifier marathon, a women’s empowerment run, a scenic ultra in the Cascades, or a fun summer evening 5K, every race in the Run Super Series is crafted with care and intention.
Runners consistently praise Run Super Series events for being well-organized, scenic, and inspiring. Testimonials highlight their life-changing impact, exceptional support, and the opportunity to explore the beauty of the Pacific Northwest on foot. Whether you're chasing a PR, discovering a new trail, or running with friends for fun, Run Super Series promises to deliver your next favorite running experience.
Check out other
Run Super Series
races:
Ancient Lakes
10
K
25
K
50
K
50
M
|
WA
Apr 5, 2025
Cascade Express
13.1
M
26.2
M
|
WA
Jun 22, 2025
Galloping Gertie
5
K
10
K
13.1
M
|
WA
Rainier to Ruston Relay | 50M
50
M
|
WA
Run Super Downhill Series | Jack & Jill
13.1
M
26.2
M
|
WA
Run the Bay
5
K
10
K
13.1
M
|
WA
Run the Bay | 10K
10
K
|
WA
Run the Bay | 5K
5
K
|
WA
Run the Bay | Half
13.1
M
|
WA
Seattle Cherry Blossom run
5
K
10
K
13.1
M
|
WA
Snohomish Women's Run
5
K
10
K
13.1
M
|
WA
Tenacious Ten
10
K
10
M
|
WA
Twilight at the Bay
5
K
10
K
13.1
M
|
WA
Nov 9, 2025
Ultra Fest
25
K
50
K
50
M
100
K
100
M
|
WA
Sep 20, 2025
![](data:image/svg+xml,<svg display="block" role="presentation" viewBox="0 0 20 17" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><g d="M 9.952 2.85 C 9.606 2.377 9.136 1.903 8.542 1.43 C 7.362 0.477 6.162 0 4.942 0 C 3.816 0 2.729 0.41 1.682 1.23 C -1.111 3.53 -0.571 6.913 3.302 11.38 C 5.242 13.607 7.459 15.607 9.952 17.38 C 12.452 15.607 14.672 13.607 16.612 11.38 C 20.486 6.913 21.022 3.53 18.222 1.23 C 17.176 0.41 16.092 0 14.972 0 C 13.752 0 12.549 0.477 11.362 1.43 C 10.996 1.723 10.649 2.047 10.322 2.4 L 9.952 2.85 M 2.442 2.17 C 3.269 1.523 4.102 1.2 4.942 1.2 C 5.882 1.2 6.836 1.59 7.802 2.37 C 8.289 2.763 8.682 3.16 8.982 3.56 L 9.952 4.87 L 10.922 3.56 L 12.102 2.37 C 13.069 1.59 14.026 1.2 14.972 1.2 C 15.799 1.2 16.632 1.523 17.472 2.17 C 18.366 2.903 18.792 3.783 18.752 4.81 C 18.692 6.47 17.576 8.51 15.402 10.93 C 13.836 12.67 12.019 14.323 9.952 15.89 C 7.886 14.323 6.069 12.67 4.502 10.93 C 2.329 8.51 1.212 6.47 1.152 4.81 C 1.126 3.777 1.556 2.897 2.442 2.17" fill="transparent" height="17.379999952316282px" id="AxX6s3ET9" width="19.984374960920544px"><path d="M 9.952 2.85 C 9.606 2.377 9.136 1.903 8.542 1.43 C 7.362 0.477 6.162 0 4.942 0 C 3.816 0 2.729 0.41 1.682 1.23 C -1.111 3.53 -0.571 6.913 3.302 11.38 C 5.242 13.607 7.459 15.607 9.952 17.38 C 12.452 15.607 14.672 13.607 16.612 11.38 C 20.486 6.913 21.022 3.53 18.222 1.23 C 17.176 0.41 16.092 0 14.972 0 C 13.752 0 12.549 0.477 11.362 1.43 C 10.996 1.723 10.649 2.047 10.322 2.4 L 9.952 2.85 M 2.442 2.17 C 3.269 1.523 4.102 1.2 4.942 1.2 C 5.882 1.2 6.836 1.59 7.802 2.37 C 8.289 2.763 8.682 3.16 8.982 3.56 L 9.952 4.87 L 10.922 3.56 L 12.102 2.37 C 13.069 1.59 14.026 1.2 14.972 1.2 C 15.799 1.2 16.632 1.523 17.472 2.17 C 18.366 2.903 18.792 3.783 18.752 4.81 C 18.692 6.47 17.576 8.51 15.402 10.93 C 13.836 12.67 12.019 14.323 9.952 15.89 C 7.886 14.323 6.069 12.67 4.502 10.93 C 2.329 8.51 1.212 6.47 1.152 4.81 C 1.126 3.777 1.556 2.897 2.442 2.17" fill="rgb(255, 0, 0)" height="17.379999952316282px" id="ql_EbdlRv" transform="translate(0 0)" width="19.984374960920544px"/></g></svg>)
