Overview
The Millersylvania Trail Races are as scenic as they are beginner-friendly. Set in the heart of Millersylvania State Park near Olympia, this event takes runners through a beautiful 5K loop of old-growth forest and lakeside views. The courses are mostly flat, with just 100 feet of elevation per loop, making them perfect for first-time trail runners, families, or anyone chasing a personal record.
Choose your adventure: 5K, 10K, 25K, 50K, or the 12-hour challenge where you run as many loops as you can. With a well-marked course, generous cut-off times, and an encouraging community atmosphere, this event is about fun, accessibility, and giving back. A portion of the proceeds supports the Interfaith Works Emergency Overnight Shelter, helping those in need across Olympia and Thurston County.
Saturday, August 30, 2025
Registration
Opens
Aug 8, 2025, 12:00 PM
Closes
Aug 8, 2025, 12:00 PM
Registration Fee
$125, $95, $65, $35, $155
Official race details:
Course
Distance:
5
K
Course type:
Unknown
Elevation gain:
▲
100 ft
Elevation loss:
▼
100 ft
Max altitude:
203 ft
Start time:
Aug 30, 2025
8:00 AM
Cutoff time:
12HR
Course Description
A flat, forested 5K loop hugs Deep Lake’s eastern shore, weaving wide walking paths, soft pine-needle singletrack, a short wooden boardwalk, and tidy gravel roads. Expect 100 feet of gentle gain per lap, shady ferns, and spurts of sunlit shoreline. Red-hued cedar trunks frame every turn while chorus frogs provide the soundtrack.
Key Highlights
5K loop through old-growth forest and along waterways
Mostly flat terrain with ~100 ft gain per loop
Mix of wide trail, singletrack, boardwalks, and short gravel sections
Typically dry and smooth with a few roots or mud puddles
Logistics
Driving Directions
Parking
Every vehicle in the park must display a Washington Discover Pass. Use the day-use lot next to Kitchen #2. Follow event signs, park tight, and carpool when possible.
Passes Required
Lodging
Millersylvania State Park Campground offers tent and RV sites steps from the start line.
Olympia hotels and short-term rentals sit twenty minutes north. Tumwater and Tenino provide additional options within thirty minutes.
Aid Stations
Runners hit a fully loaded aid hub every 5K at Kitchen #2.
What's Included
Standard spread of water, Gnarly electrolytes, soda, fruit, PB&J, Oreos, candy, chips. Vegan-friendly. 🌱 This is a cupless race so bring your own flask/cup. First-aid & period products available.
Race Requirements
Bib must be front-facing and visible. Carry a personal hydration system. Headlamps required for anyone expecting to finish after dusk.
Trail Work
Qualifying Races
No prior race qualifications required. This course is built for first-timers and seasoned legs alike
Mandatory Gear
Recommended
Headlamp for dusk or dark laps
Reusable cup or bottle for cupless aid station
Weather-appropriate layers
Policies
Cancelations & Deferrals
No refunds or bib transfers.
If canceling:
31+ days before = 50% race fee credit + 100% of extras
7–30 days = 50% race fee credit + 50% of extras
<7 days = no credit
Cancellation by Rainshadow due to weather, fire, or other = 50% credit.
Dogs
Leashed dogs may join runners or spectate at Kitchen #2. Pack out waste and yield to fellow trail users.
Kids
Kids can camp overnight for a $250 fee covering food and supervision. The pancake-flat 5K welcomes young runners alongside an adult, and youth discounts apply at checkout.
Crew, Pacers & Spectators
Crew and spectators are welcome at the start-finish lawn and any public trail sector. Support is restricted to the aid-station zone. Display a Discover Pass and respect campground quiet hours.
Volunteers
Rainshadow Running thrives on volunteer magic. Shifts range from early-morning check-in to full-day aid-station gigs. Perks include free food, finish-line drinks, and credit toward a future Rainshadow race. Sign up by emailing info@rainshadowrunning.com.
Charity & Beneficiary
A share of every entry fee and all additional donations support Interfaith Works Emergency Overnight Shelter, serving unhoused residents of Olympia and Thurston County.
Land Acknowledgement
The Millersylvania Trail Races take place on the traditional lands of the Coast Salish Peoples, including the Nisqually Tribe. We honor their history and stewardship of these lands and invite participants to respect and protect these natural spaces. Race entry fees are waived for tribal members; email info@rainshadowrunning.com for details.
About
Rainshadow Running
Rainshadow Running is known for hosting some of the most scenic, challenging, and well-loved trail races in the Pacific Northwest. Since 2006, we've brought runners together on rugged mountain trails, coastal bluffs, and remote desert ridges, places that inspire awe and demand grit.
Our races are more than just miles; they’re celebrations of community, nature, and the wild beauty of the land. Whether you're chasing a PR or just here for the post-race party with wood-fired pizza and bluegrass music, you're part of the Rainshadow family.
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