Overview
The Yakima Skyline is one of Rainshadow Running’s toughest and most scenic spring races. This iconic trail run traverses the dramatic Yakima River Canyon in Washington’s high desert. With nearly 4,700 feet of elevation gain, relentless climbs, quad-burning descents, and rugged technical trails, this is no ordinary 25K.
Expect sweeping views of the Yakima River, rolling ridgelines lined with wildflowers, and distant glimpses of Tahoma (Mt. Rainier) and Pahto (Mt. Adams); if you can look up between climbs. The course is exposed, often hot and dry, and snakes share the trail, adding an element of true wild. Finishers are rewarded with Rainshadow’s signature finish-line party, plus free on-site primitive camping.
This is more than a race, it’s an adventure.
Registration
Opens
TBD
Closes
TBD
Registration Fee
$155
UTMB Index Qualifier
Official race details:
Important
↳ This race is located in Eastern Washington's desert. Expect heat and having to carry your own water.
This race is Trail Mix Fund eligible!
The Trail Mix Fund helps remove barriers in trail racing by covering race entry fees for under-served and under-represented runners, creating a more diverse and welcoming start line.
Course
Distance:
50
K
Course type:
Unknown
Elevation gain:
▲
9,200 ft
Elevation loss:
▼
9,200 ft
Max altitude:
1,200 ft
Start time:
8:00 AM
Cutoff time:
12HR
Course Description
The route launches at 1,300 ft beside the Yakima River, crosses the suspension bridge, and climbs more than 2,100 ft in two relentless miles to the Skyline Rim Jeep road. Runners dance along rocky ridges carpeted with balsamroot, plunge 1,400 ft to Roza Creek, then grind skyward again for sweeping ridge-running toward the halfway Buffalo Aid Station. Expect exposed single-track, shifting basalt scree, spring wildflowers, and the ever-present canyon wind. Return on the same trail; climb, crest, and ride “the elevator shaft” back to the river for a hero’s welcome.
Key Highlights
Out-and-back route along the Yakima Skyline Rim Trail
Total elevation gain: 4,700 ft, with steep sustained climbs and sharp descents
Mix of narrow, rocky singletrack and rugged jeep roads
No shade; high desert terrain with sun exposure and minimal water sources
Remote wilderness with rattlesnake sightings possible; hot, dry, and windy conditions are common
Views of Yakima River Canyon, Cascade Range, Tahoma (Mt. Rainier), and Pahto (Mt. Adams)
Logistics
Driving Directions
Parking
Park in the gravel overflow lot for Umtanum Creek Recreation Area. Follow event signs and walk 0.3 mile south to the start/finish. Do not park in the paved day-use area. Limited ADA parking is available on-site by prior arrangement. A Washington Discover Pass is required for vehicles parked in the Umtanum overflow lot. No pass needed for private-property start/finish if you walk in.
Passes Required
Lodging
Primitive tent and small-RV camping is free at start/finish (no water or hookups). Canyon River Ranch luxury suites are 1.5 miles south. Additional hotels are available in Ellensburg and Yakima, each 20–25 minutes away. Nearby BLM campgrounds Umtanum, Big Pines, Lmuma, and Roza. They operate first-come, first-served.
Aid Stations
Mile | Aid Station | Cutoff | Drop Bags |
|---|---|---|---|
8.0 | Roza | 11:00 AM | — |
15.5 | Buffalo | 1:45 PM | ✅ |
23.0 | Roza | 5:00 PM | — |
28.5 | Minimal Aid Station | — | — |
Note: Volunteers record bibs at every stop to keep you accounted for.
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. Drop bags allowed at Buffalo station.
Race Requirements
Bib must be worn front-facing and visible at aid-station check-in and check-out.
Trail Work
Qualifying Races
Prior trail experience is strongly recommended given 9,200 ft of climbing and technical terrain.
Mandatory Gear
At minimum carry two 16 oz bottles or a hydration vest totaling 32 oz. A sun hat, electrolyte tablets, and a light wind shell are strongly recommended for exposed ridges.
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, well-behaved dogs are welcome at the start/finish and on course, but owners must consider hot, rocky terrain and scarce water when deciding to run with their pup.
Note from Kåduka: our staff have done this course multiple times; we don't bring our own pups to the course — there's no water throughout the entire course; it's very dry terrain — but they have a fun time at the Start & Finish.
Crew, Pacers & Spectators
Crew and spectators can cheer at the start/finish only. Permits prohibit vehicle access to Buffalo and Roza aid stations, and crews found on course risk runner disqualification. Parking is limited; expect a short walk from the Umtanum overflow lot.
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 portion of proceeds supports local trail-maintenance grants through Rainshadow’s “For The Trails” fund, keeping Yakima Canyon’s single-track rugged and runnable.
Land Acknowledgement
This race takes place on the ancestral lands of the Yakama Nation and associated tribes and bands who have stewarded this high-desert landscape for generations. We honor their enduring connection to the canyon and its river. 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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