Overview
The Hamster Endurance Runs are equal parts challenge, community, and joyful chaos. Since 2013, this race has been the go-to event for runners who love testing their endurance on a fun and loopy course. The magic of Hamster isn’t just about the miles—it’s about the energy at Lake Padden, the quirky traditions (yes, peanut butter and pickle wraps), and the celebration that happens every time a runner crosses the start line for another lap.
Whether you’re in for 6 hours or braving the full 32, you’ll discover that Hamster is as much about the journey as the finish. With a lively crew of runners, volunteers, and supporters cheering you on, this is a race where big dreams meet small loops in the best way possible.
Saturday, August 2, 2025
Registration
Opens
Jan 7, 2026, 7:00 AM
Closes
TBD
Registration Fee
$100-$270
Official race details:
Course
Distance:
2.6
M
Course type:
Loop
Elevation gain:
▲
150ft
Elevation loss:
▼
150ft
Max altitude:
300ft
Start time:
Aug 2, 2025
8:00 AM
Cutoff time:
32HR
Course Description
The course is a 2.6M loop that circles scenic Lake Padden on a well-marked trail. Surrounded by towering trees and lake views, runners will find themselves fully immersed in a natural, peaceful setting. At night, glow lights guide the way while headlamps light up the forest.
The trail surface is compact dirt and crushed gravel, making it smooth and nontechnical with only minimal elevation change. Each loop includes roughly 150ft of gain, and while that might not seem like much, it adds up quickly as the hours roll on. This is a course that challenges your mental grit as much as your legs, rewarding persistence with milestone after milestone.
Logistics
Bellingham International Airport is the closest airport, located about 15 minutes from Lake Padden. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is approximately 1.5 hours south of Bellingham. Vancouver International Airport in British Columbia is about 1.5 hours north, depending on border crossing wait times.
Driving Directions
Parking
There is adequate parking near the start/finish at Lake Padden. Runners are encouraged to carpool when possible. Overnight camping is not allowed in the parking lot, but runners may nap in their vehicles between loops.
Lodging
Camping is available nearby at Larrabee State Park Campground.
Hotels and rentals are available throughout Bellingham with convenient access to Lake Padden.
Aid Stations
Aid is located at the start/finish of each loop under the shelter at Lake Padden. The Hamster aid station is known for going big, with a rotating spread of snacks, gels, wraps (including the famous peanut butter and pickle), hot food and drinks at night, and hearty breakfast options on Sunday morning for the long-haul runners. Vegan and gluten-free options will also be available.
Race Requirements
Hamster is open to all runners regardless of prior ultramarathon experience. Participants are encouraged to be prepared for long hours on a loop course, including night running with headlamps.
Trail Work
Policies
Cancelations & Deferrals
If the race is canceled due to poor air quality or other uncontrollable events, organizers will offer rollovers to the following year or partial refunds. Refunds are offered on a schedule: 95% refund through April 1, 2025, 50% refund between April 2 and June 30, 2025, and no refunds starting July 1, 2025. Runners may switch distances by paying the difference in entry fees when moving up, though no refund is given when dropping down.
Dogs
Dogs are not allowed on course due to USATF insurance requirements. They are welcome on leash near the start/finish area but should not enter the aid station or eat aid station food.
Crew, Pacers & Spectators
Crew and spectators are welcome at Lake Padden and may set up near the shelter or under trees by the bathrooms.
Pacers are allowed only for the 24 Hour and 32 Hour events and may join once the 12 Hour event concludes Saturday evening. Only one pacer may accompany a runner at a time, though runners may use multiple pacers across the event.
Volunteers
Volunteers are the heart of Hamster, helping runners push through the long hours. Opportunities include aid station support, timing help, setup, and teardown. Sign up to volunteer by contacting the race director.
Charity & Beneficiary
Proceeds from the Hamster Endurance Runs benefit the Whatcom Family YMCA Girls on the Run program, helping empower young girls through running and community.
Learn more: https://www.whatcomymca.org/girls-run
Land Acknowledgement
The Hamster Endurance Runs take place on the traditional lands of the Coast Salish peoples, including the Lummi and Nooksack Tribes, who have lived in the Bellingham region since time immemorial. We honor their stewardship of this land and waters.
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