Capitol Peak 50 miler/25k

The Capitol Peak 50 Miler and 25K Trail Race are scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026, at the Fall Creek Day Use Area within the Capitol State Forest near Olympia, Washington. Celebrating its 21st anniversary, the event is known for its "old school" feel and budget-friendly entry fees. The courses consist of rugged single-track trails and gravel road sections, culminating in a notable 7-mile descent from the Wedekind aid station to the finish line. Both distances reach the summit of Capitol Peak, offering expansive views of the surrounding forest and mountain ranges, weather permitting. As the race takes place in a working forest, the course is subject to minor revisions to accommodate active logging or maintenance operations.

Olympia is the capital city of Washington and the county seat of Thurston County. The population is approximately 56,000 residents. The demographic profile of Olympia is approximately 75.1% White (Non-Hispanic), 9.6% Hispanic or Latino, 6.2% Asian, 2.1% Black or African American, 0.9% Native American, and 6.1% from two or more races. The median annual household income in the city is roughly $76,000. Geographically, Capitol State Forest is a 110,000-acre managed forest located in the Black Hills, featuring a mix of second-growth Douglas fir and lush undergrowth. The climate in mid-April in the South Puget Sound region typically features average lows of 5°C (41°F) and highs of 14°C (57°F). Runners should anticipate moist trail conditions and "toss-of-the-coin" spring weather that can shift rapidly from clear skies to heavy Pacific Northwest rain.

Registration for the 2026 event closes on April 16th, with price increases taking effect after April 4th. All participants are required to bring a signed DNR waiver to race-day check-in, and all vehicles parked at the Fall Creek Trailhead must display a valid Washington State Discover Pass. Post-race food is included with registration, and camping is available at the nearby Falls Creek Campground on a first-come, first-served basis. The event is hosted by the Oly Trail Runners, and the all-time 50-mile course record of 6:31:49 was set by Seth Swanson in 2014. Due to permit and safety regulations, there is no early start option, and runners must strictly adhere to designated aid station cut-off times to remain in the race.