Overview
Volcanic is the original Mt. St. Helens race, offering one of the most challenging and unforgettable trail experiences in the Pacific Northwest. Choose between a demanding 50K+ circumnavigation of the volcano or a shorter, yet still epic, 25K. The 50K takes you around the Loowit Trail, where racers navigate lava fields, boulder scrambles, river crossings, and remnants of the 1980 eruption blast zone, all while soaking in jaw-dropping views.
This event is raw, rugged, and remote. With technical terrain, rope-assisted climbs, and an alpine backdrop, this race isn’t for beginners. If you’re craving a race that tests your mountain skills, Volcanic delivers an adventure you’ll never forget.
Saturday, August 2, 2025
Registration
Opens
Nov 1, 2025, 12:00 PM
Closes
Jul 24, 2026, 11:59 PM
Registration Fee
TBD
UTMB Index Qualifier
Official race details:
Course
Distance:
50
K
Course type:
Unknown
Elevation gain:
▲
7,400 ft
Elevation loss:
▼
7,400 ft
Max altitude:
4,800 ft
Start time:
Aug 2, 2025
7:00 AM
Cutoff time:
12HR
Course Description
The 50K is a full circumnavigation of Mt. St. Helens on the iconic Loowit Trail. Expect scrambling over giant boulder fields, charging through the blast zone, using rope assists to navigate steep drainages, and weaving through dense forest as the mountain towers above you. The ever-changing terrain means no two miles look alike; every step brings something new and unforgettable.
Key Highlights
Start & Finish at Marble Mountain Sno Park
50K circumnavigation of Mt. St. Helens via the Loowit Trail
Terrain features include lava and pumice fields, steep drainages, river crossings, rope-assisted climbs, and dense forest
Exposed sections with variable weather; heat, wind, and storms possible
Logistics
The race is 2 hours from Portland and 4 hours from Seattle. Cougar, WA is the closest town with supplies and amenities.
Driving Directions
Parking
Parking is available at the upper and lower Sno Park lots. Motor homes and trailers are not permitted. Car camping is allowed the night before the race only.
Lodging
Camping is allowed at the Sno Park the night before the race. Additional lodging is available in Cougar (30 minutes away) and Woodland (1 hour 15 minutes away). Lone Fir Resort in Cougar is the closest accommodation option.
Aid Stations
Aid stations are sparse and rugged, offering hydration, electrolytes, and ultra staples like fruit, PB&J, and salty snacks. The 50K course has multiple mountain aid stops spaced widely apart. Drop bags are permitted at designated locations. Be prepared for long stretches of self-sufficiency between aid.
Race Requirements
Runners must come prepared for long stretches of rugged, unsupported mountain terrain. Experience with technical trails, elevation gain, and long-distance trail running is strongly recommended.
Trail Work
Qualifying Races
50K entrants must have previously completed at least one 50K trail race or the Volcanic 25K. Proof of results is required during registration.
Mandatory Gear
Mandatory gear checks are required for the 50K. Runners must carry sufficient gear to handle mountain weather and rugged terrain, including hydration systems and safety essentials.
Policies
Cancelations & Deferrals
Cancel more than 30 days before; get 50 percent future race credit (valid 365 days, includes full apparel credit, not transferrable). Cancel 30 days or less before; no credit, no refund, no transfer. See race website for full cancelation policy
Dogs
Dogs are not allowed on the course or at the start/finish area due to permit restrictions and safety concerns.
Crew, Pacers & Spectators
Crew and visitors are welcome but must follow rules at aid stations and finish areas. Support outside designated spots is not allowed. Car camping is available at Marble Mountain Sno Park the night before the race.
Volunteers
Volunteers are the heart of this race. Opportunities include working aid stations, sleep stations, and supporting logistics. Sign up at gobeyondracing.com/volunteer.
Charity & Beneficiary
This event is permitted by the US Forest Service and supports stewardship of Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. Go Beyond Racing encourages community contributions through volunteer trail work and its Trail Mix Fund program.
Land Acknowledgement
We acknowledge and respect that this race takes place on the traditional homelands of the Cowlitz Tribe, whose people have cared for this land since time immemorial.
About
Go Beyond Racing
Founded in 2013 and based in Portland, Oregon, Go Beyond Racing is a premier trail race organizer that has become a pillar of the Pacific Northwest trail running community. Known for its professional execution and welcoming culture, Go Beyond produces dozens of races annually—from grassroots weeknight trail series to 200-mile endurance feats—each designed to challenge and inspire runners of all backgrounds.
At the core of Go Beyond Racing is a commitment to going the extra mile. Every event is intentionally crafted to reflect their core values.
Race directors Todd and Renee Janssen are lifelong endurance athletes and deeply embedded in the trail community. Their family-oriented approach and hands-on involvement ensure each event feels personal and thoughtfully executed. From their signature events like Mountain Lakes 100, Volcanic, Stumptown Trail Runs, and the Oregon 200, to weekly runs hosted through the Trail Factor club, Go Beyond is deeply invested in building a vibrant and supportive trail running culture.
Whether you're taking on your first 5K or your fifth 100-miler, Go Beyond Racing invites runners to go faster, go farther—and most importantly—go beyond.
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