Mad Meadows 50

Set against the backdrop of Washington's Eastern Cascades, the Mad Meadows 50 offers an unforgettable trail running experience. This high-elevation course features sweeping views and challenging terrain that will test even the most seasoned runners. The race route reaches elevations over 6000 feet for the 50k distance and peaks at more than 7000 feet for the full 50-mile event, providing panoramic vistas of the Entiat River Valley and glaciated slopes.
The course begins along Chiwawa River Road before veering into a mix of smooth single-track trails and technical sections. Runners will encounter steep climbs and thrilling descents through larch-dotted landscapes during Larch Season, creating an enchanting setting that is both visually stunning and mentally demanding. Notable highlights include the climb up Minnow Creek trail towards Basalt Pass, offering breathtaking views of the Dakobed Range.
Both distances feature a magical north-facing talus slope covered in old-growth larch trees, providing runners with a moment to pause and appreciate nature’s beauty before continuing through an old burn on Chikamin Ridge. The route then descends into Mad Meadows Aid Station via winding single-track trails, followed by the final stretch along Alder Ridge back towards Grouse Creek Group Campground.
While this event is currently postponed due to fire recovery efforts, it promises a unique blend of natural beauty and athletic challenge that will make your return visit well worth waiting for.