Overview
The Gorge Waterfalls races are a true celebration of trail running in one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United States. Over three days, runners take on distances of 100K, 50K, and 30K, weaving through mossy forests, along cliffside singletrack, and past cascading waterfalls that seem to appear around every bend.
This race is more than just miles on the trail. It’s a premium race experience crafted by Daybreak Racing and Freetrail, combining world-class course design with the camaraderie and spirit of the trail community. Expect a fun and welcoming finish line festival, stunning scenery from start to finish, and the kind of challenge that will make you proud to call yourself a Gorge Waterfalls finisher.
Saturday, April 11, 2026
Registration
Opens
Oct 8, 2025, 12:00 AM
Closes
Apr 3, 2026, 12:00 AM
Registration Fee
$140-$290
Western States Qualifier
UTMB Index Qualifier
Official race details:
Course
Distance:
100
K
Course type:
Unknown
Elevation gain:
▲
11,000 ft
Elevation loss:
▼
11,000 ft
Max altitude:
4, 000ft
Start time:
Apr 11, 2026
5:00 AM
Cutoff time:
17HR
Course Description
The Gorge Waterfalls courses immerse runners in the lush, iconic terrain of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Expect sweeping views of the Columbia River, narrow cliffside trails, lush forests draped in moss, and countless waterfalls pouring down from volcanic cliffs. The courses are technical and challenging, with sections of steep climbs and rocky footing that demand focus and grit, balanced by smooth stretches where you can open up and fly.
Key highlights include unforgettable waterfall crossings, breathtaking panoramas of the Gorge, and the electric energy of cheering crews and volunteers at Marine Park in Cascade Locks. Each distance delivers its own adventure, but all share the same magic of this world-class trail running destination.
Course Highlights
Point to Point starting and finishing at Marine Park in Cascade Locks Mass start Cutoff time of 17 hours overall
Logistics
Nearest airport is Portland International Airport (PDX), 38 miles from Cascade Locks. Cascade Locks and Hood River offer nearby lodging and services.
Driving Directions
Parking
Event parking is available at Marine Park for $10 per day. Additional free parking is available curbside along Wa Na Pa Street in Cascade Locks. Oversized vehicles must park outside Marine Park due to 12-foot clearance at the entrance.
Lodging
Camping is available on Thunder Island within Marine Park (first come, first served) and at Marine Park Campground. Multiple hotels are located in Cascade Locks within minutes of the start. Hood River and Portland offer additional lodging within 20 to 45 minutes’ drive.
Aid Stations
Aid stations are fully stocked with water, electrolytes, snacks, and hearty fuel to keep runners going strong. Volunteers bring high energy and support at every stop, with medical staff ready if needed. Drop bags are allowed at designated locations.
Race Requirements
This is a challenging race requiring trail running experience. Participants should be prepared for long hours on technical trails, steep climbs, and variable weather conditions.
Trail Work
Qualifying Races
The 100K is a Western States qualifier requiring completion within 18 hours. No other prerequisites are listed for the other distances.
Mandatory Gear
Runners are strongly encouraged to prepare for early spring mountain weather.
Policies
Cancelations & Deferrals
Crew, Pacers & Spectators
Crew support is permitted at designated aid stations and the finish line. Pacers are not mentioned for this event. Visitors are welcome to enjoy Marine Park and the sponsor village, but must follow park rules and respect race operations.
Volunteers
Volunteers are welcomed and essential to the event. Tasks range from course marshaling to aid station support and finish line celebrations. Sign-up information is available on the race website
Charity & Beneficiary
A portion of proceeds benefit the Trailkeepers of Oregon, a non-profit dedicated to maintaining, building, and protecting Oregon trails.
Land Acknowledgement
We honor and recognize that this event takes place on the traditional lands of the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs, Yakama Nation, Nez Perce, the Confederated Tribes of Umatilla, Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde, the Cowlitz Tribe, and the Siletz Tribe, who have stewarded these lands for countless generations.
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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