Light at the End of the Tunnel Marathon and Half

Light at the End of the Tunnel Marathon and Half returns to Snoqualmie Pass, Washington on June 7th, 2026, bringing with it a blend of speed and scenic beauty that has made this event iconic among runners. Known for its fast downhill grade and stunning Pacific Northwest landscapes, the race offers participants an unforgettable run through history and nature.
The day begins as dawn breaks over Snoqualmie Pass, casting a soft light on the historic tunnel entrance where the marathon starts. The air is crisp and filled with the scent of pine trees; the cool temperatures make for comfortable running conditions even at higher elevations. As runners descend into North Bend, they are greeted by lush greenery and mountain views that create an ever-changing backdrop throughout the course.
Over the years, Light at the End of the Tunnel Marathon & Half has become a significant event in the running calendar, not just because it’s fast but also for its unique challenge: navigating through the historic Snoqualmie Tunnel with headlamps lit. This tradition adds to the race's allure and keeps participants coming back year after year. The marathon distance stands out as one of the few courses nationwide that consistently helps more than 40% of runners qualify for Boston, thanks to a USATF-certified course designed specifically for speed.
The 21.1K half marathon follows an alternate route in 2026 due to storm damage but retains its fast and scenic qualities with approximately 1,000 feet of net elevation drop. The trail is packed gravel that accommodates both road and light trail shoes, ensuring a smooth run from start to finish.
The course itself begins at Snoqualmie Pass, where runners will enter the historic tunnel under headlamps if they are participating in early hours. From there, it continues along scenic rail trails with breathtaking views of waterfalls and mountain vistas before descending into North Bend for the final miles. The route features aid stations strategically placed to keep participants hydrated throughout their run.
Weather conditions on June 7th typically offer mild temperatures averaging around 12°C (54°F), though early morning starts can be chilly, dropping down to about 6°C (43°F). With an average wind speed of approximately 8.3 km/h and humidity levels at a comfortable 77%, the environment feels ideal for running even with slight breezes blowing through.

Half Marathon Light at the End of the Tunnel Half Marathon | 21.1K | fee=$119.00
Marathon | 42.2K | fee=$159.00
Registration opens on February 13, 2026, and can be completed online via https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=132698. Participants are encouraged to register early as spots fill up quickly for this popular event. Fees include professional chip timing, a custom race bib, finisher's shirt and medal upon completion of the race, post-race food and festivities, and shuttle transportation back from Garcia Trailhead.
Bib pickup will take place on June 6th at the Snoqualmie Pass Visitor Center where runners can collect their packets before heading to the start line. On race day, participants should arrive early enough to acclimate themselves to cooler morning temperatures with headlamps ready for those starting through the tunnel in darkness. The recommended age requirement is 18 years or older.
Light at the End of the Tunnel Marathon and Half offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern running excellence in Snoqualmie Pass, Washington. With its scenic beauty, fast course conditions, and strong community support, this event promises to be an unforgettable experience for runners seeking both challenge and enjoyment on race day.
Light at the End of the Tunnel Marathon & Half – June 7th, 2026, is more than a race; it’s an invitation to explore the beauty and history of Snoqualmie Pass while pushing your personal limits in one of the fastest marathon experiences in Washington.