Overview
Welcome to Cloud Cap, where rugged beauty meets racing spirit. Set on Mt. Hood’s wild and historic north side, this race takes you into the heart of Oregon’s alpine backcountry. You will run through the legendary Cloud Cap–Tilly Jane Historic District, past glaciers, canyons, and century-old alpine lodges, with Mt. Hood’s snowcapped summit always in view.
The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, staged at the charming Cooper Spur Ski Area. Runners, crews, and visitors will enjoy sweeping mountain views, a vibrant community, and a finish line celebration filled with food, drinks, and camaraderie. Whether you are chasing a PR or soaking up alpine magic, Cloud Cap offers a race day you will never forget.
Saturday, September 20, 2025
Registration
Opens
TBD
Closes
TBD
Registration Fee
$85-$125
UTMB Index Qualifier
Official race details:
Course
Distance:
26.2
M
Course type:
Unknown
Elevation gain:
▲
5,000 ft, 2,500 ft
Elevation loss:
▼
5,000 ft, 2,500 ft
Max altitude:
7,000 ft
Start time:
Sep 20, 2025
Cutoff time:
Course Description
Both the Mountain Marathon and Half Marathon loop courses weave through trails and primitive forest roads in the Cloud Cap–Tilly Jane Historic District. Runners experience a mix of rugged terrain, alpine meadows, historic landmarks, and breathtaking vistas of glaciers and canyons. Expect rolling climbs, punchy ascents, and open ridgelines with views that stretch to Mt. Adams, Mt. Rainier, and the Hood River Valley orchards.
Highlights include the historic Cloud Cap Inn, the oldest alpine lodge in the United States, along with other storied landmarks like the Tilly Jane Guard Station and Civilian Conservation Corps camp. The course passes through sections still recovering from the 2008 Gnarl Ridge Fire, offering open panoramas and dramatic contrast between regrowth and towering alpine cliffs.
Logistics
The nearest major airport is Portland International Airport (PDX), about 90 minutes from the start. Hood River is 35 minutes away, and Government Camp is 30 minutes south.
Driving Directions
Parking
Parking is available at Cooper Spur Ski Area. A site map is provided in pre-race communications. Runners and crews are encouraged to carpool. Only head-in or back-in parking is allowed, no parallel parking.
Lodging
Camping is available at nearby US Forest Service campgrounds. Hotel accommodations can be found in Hood River, 35 minutes north, or Government Camp, 30 minutes south.
Aid Stations
The race features fully stocked aid stations with water, electrolytes, and a variety of food to fuel your alpine journey. Mountain Marathon and Half Marathon runners will pass through multiple stations offering fresh refills and energy along the way. Aid stations are fully serviced and located at key course points, though specific mileage details are released in the final race guide.
Race Requirements
Trail Work
Mandatory Gear
Runners are advised to bring weather-appropriate gear. Snow or ice is possible in late September, and traction devices such as microspikes may be necessary if early winter weather arrives.
Policies
Cancelations & Deferrals
Dogs
Friendly, leashed, and physically capable dogs are welcome to run the race with their owners. Dogs are also allowed in the start/finish staging area but not inside the Cooper Spur lodge.
Crew, Pacers & Spectators
Crew and visitors are welcome at the start/finish area at Cooper Spur Ski Area. Crews may not access all aid stations, and visitors should plan for alpine weather conditions. All participants, crews, and visitors are expected to follow Leave No Trace principles.
Volunteers
Charity & Beneficiary
Cloud Cap benefits the Crag Rats, America’s oldest search and rescue organization, founded in 1926. The Crag Rats are based in Hood River and cover Mt. Hood and the Columbia Gorge.
Land Acknowledgement
This race takes place on the ancestral lands of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs and other Indigenous peoples who have lived, traveled, and stewarded these mountains for generations. Daybreak Racing acknowledges this heritage and encourages all participants to show respect for the land and its history.
About
Daybreak Racing
Daybreak Racing is a Pacific Northwest–based trail running company dedicated to producing beautiful, original, and challenging trail races in spectacular natural settings. Their events emphasize safety, participant support, and an inclusive, festive atmosphere, blending professional-level race production with a welcoming, community-driven vibe. Every event features well-marked courses, thoughtfully staged venues with amenities, professional medical support (not volunteer‑only), high‑quality aid stations, and custom finisher awards and swag. They also integrate eco-responsibility into operations, including recycling and composting programs, and make donations to local beneficiaries for each race.
The team behind Daybreak Racing is led by Jeremy Long, a native of the Oregon Coast and race director whose background in public health and passion for trails shapes the company’s values. He’s supported by Aaron Long and Mack Robertson, who bring a blend of coaching, event coordination, and outdoor community engagement to ensure every race is thoughtfully executed and rooted in local stewardship.
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