Olympic National Park Ultra events offer breathtaking scenery and challenging terrain for trail runners. These races include the OAT Run, GOAT Run, and Olympic Mountains Trail Races, featuring distances from 12K to 100K. Participants experience diverse landscapes, from coastal trails to mountain summits, with well-organized support and amenities. This guide covers race details, routes, facilities, and accessibility options for these iconic ultra-marathon events in the Olympic Peninsula.
What Are the Main Olympic National Park Ultra Events?

The Olympic National Park area hosts several ultra-marathon events throughout the year:
- OAT Run (Olympic Adventure Trail Run)
- GOAT Run (Great Olympic Adventure Trail Run)
- Olympic Mountains Trail Races
Each event offers unique challenges and experiences for trail runners of various skill levels.
OAT Run Details
- Date: April 12, 2025
- Location: Port Angeles, Washington
- Distances:
- 12K (Limited to 130 runners)
- Half Marathon (Limited to 130 runners per wave)
- 50K (Limited to 130 runners)
- Registration: Open until April 11, 2025 (Prices increase on December 1 and April 1)
GOAT Run Details
- Date: September 6, 2025
- Location: Port Angeles, Washington (ending at Lake Crescent)
- Distances:
- Half Marathon (Limited to 115 runners per wave)
- Marathon (Limited to 115 runners)
- 50K (Limited to 115 runners)
- Registration: Open until September 5, 2025 (Prices increase on April 1)
Olympic Mountains Trail Races Details
- Date: August 16-17, 2025
- Location: Olympic National Forest
- Distances:
- 100K
- 50K
- 25K
- Registration: Opens January 20, 2025, on UltraSignUp with early bird pricing
What Are the Best Ultra Trail Routes in Olympic National Park?

Each Olympic National Park Ultra event offers unique and challenging routes:
OAT Run Routes
- 12K Route:
- Point-to-point, approximately 7 miles
- 600 feet of elevation gain
-
Single-track trail with one water station
-
Half Marathon Route:
- Point-to-point, just under 13 miles
- 1,300 feet of elevation gain
-
Single-track trail with three water stations
-
50K Route:
- Out-and-back, approximately 31 miles
- 4,500 feet of cumulative elevation gain
- Entirely single-track trail with multiple water stations
GOAT Run Routes
- Half Marathon Route:
- Approximately 14 miles
- 1,500 feet of elevation gain
-
Mix of unpaved forest road and single-track trail
-
Marathon Route:
- Just under 26 miles
- 3,500 feet of elevation gain
-
21 miles of single-track trail and unpaved forest road
-
50K Route:
- Point-to-point, finishing at Lake Crescent
- Includes single-track trail and unpaved forest road
Olympic Mountains Trail Races Routes
- 100K Route:
- Continuous course with over 14,200 feet of elevation gain
- Mostly single-track trail
-
Runs alongside Gold Creek, Dungeness River, and Royal Creek
-
50K Route:
- Single loop course with 8,600 feet of elevation gain
- 74% single-track trail
-
Includes climbs to Mount Townsend and Mount Zion
-
25K Route:
- Flowy single track and fast forest road running
- Climb to the summit of Mt. Zion
- 3,700 feet of elevation gain
What Amenities and Facilities Are Available for Ultra Marathon Participants?
Olympic National Park Ultra events provide various amenities and facilities for participants:
OAT Run Amenities
- Mandatory shuttle service
- Multiple water stations with hydration, electrolytes, and snacks
- Sanicans at start, finish, and along the course
- After-party with hot meal and custom race swag
GOAT Run Amenities
- Mandatory shuttle service
- Multiple aid stations with water, electrolytes, snacks, and warm foods
- Sanicans at start, finish, and along the course
- After-party at Log Cabin Resort
Olympic Mountains Trail Races Amenities
- Free camping at Race HQ
- Well-stocked aid stations with hydration drinks, gels, water, and food
- Experienced volunteers at aid stations
- Post-race food, first beer, and free massages
What Are the Accessibility Options for Olympic National Park Ultra Events?
Accessibility options for the Olympic National Park Ultra events include:
Transportation
- OAT Run: Mandatory shuttle from Extreme Sports Park
- GOAT Run: Mandatory shuttle from Joyce Museum hayfield
- Olympic Mountains Trail Races: Parking and shuttle from Race HQ
Trail Accessibility
- Varied terrain suitable for different skill levels
- Challenging elevation gains and technical sections
- Mandatory shuttles for some events
- No drop bags for certain distances (e.g., 25K in Olympic Mountains Trail Races)
- No dogs allowed at Race HQ or on the course
How Can I Prepare for an Olympic National Park Ultra?
To prepare for an Olympic National Park Ultra, consider the following tips:
- Train on similar terrain: Practice on trails with elevation gains similar to your chosen race.
- Build endurance: Gradually increase your weekly mileage and long runs.
- Practice nutrition: Experiment with different fueling strategies during training.
- Gear up: Invest in proper trail running shoes and gear for varying weather conditions.
- Study the course: Familiarize yourself with the route, aid station locations, and elevation profile.
What Should I Pack for an Olympic National Park Ultra?
Essential items to pack for an Olympic National Park Ultra include:
- Trail running shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing (layers recommended)
- Hydration pack or water bottles
- Nutrition (gels, bars, electrolyte tablets)
- First aid kit
- Headlamp (for longer distances)
- Emergency blanket
- Course map and compass
How Can I Register for Olympic National Park Ultra Events?
Registration for Olympic National Park Ultra events can be completed online:
- OAT Run: Register through the Peninsula Adventure Sports website
- GOAT Run: Register through the Peninsula Adventure Sports website
- Olympic Mountains Trail Races: Register on UltraSignUp when registration opens
Early registration is recommended as events have limited spots and prices may increase closer to race day.
By participating in an Olympic National Park Ultra, runners can challenge themselves while experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the Olympic Peninsula’s diverse landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned ultra-runner or looking to tackle your first long-distance trail race, these events offer unforgettable adventures in one of America’s most stunning national parks.
References:
1. OAT Run | Peninsula Adventure Sports, LLC
2. GOAT Run | Peninsula Adventure Sports, LLC
3. Olympic Mountains Trail Races – UltraSignUp