The Kan

The Kan Mt. Spokane Trail Run returns to the heart of Spokane, Washington on June 6th, 2026, bringing with it a blend of challenging terrain and scenic beauty that only this state park can offer. Nestled in the shadow of Mount Spokane, participants will find themselves weaving through alpine meadows, huckleberry groves, and dense pine forests as they tackle the trails during one of the region's most anticipated running events.
As runners make their way along these winding paths, they’ll feel a cool mountain breeze on their faces and the vibrant greenery surrounding them in full bloom. The early morning light filters through the pines, casting dappled shadows across the trail as participants navigate the diverse landscapes that characterize this unique race environment. With every step up and down, there’s an undeniable sense of connection to both nature and community.
Now entering its fifth year, The Kan has established itself not just as a grueling yet rewarding challenge for runners but also as a significant event in the Inland Northwest racing calendar. Lasting editions have seen hundreds of participants come together from across Washington state and beyond, united by their passion for mountain trails and endurance running. Besides being a testament to individual achievement, The Kan raises awareness and funds for local causes and supports various community initiatives through its post-race celebrations.
The Kan Mt. Spokane Trail Run unfolds along the varied terrain of Mount Spokane Ski Park, featuring both soft earth paths and firmer sections that cater to runners at all levels. For those venturing into the 50k distance, the race kicks off with a steep descent followed by an ascent over multiple loops through Shadow Mountain before reaching the summit via challenging trails like Cat Track and Northwest Passage. Meanwhile, the 25k course provides a condensed yet equally thrilling experience as runners tackle half of what the full ultramarathon offers but still enjoy breathtaking vistas.
Aid stations are strategically placed throughout the course to keep participants fueled with water, snacks, and essential supplies at crucial points along their journey. These stops offer brief respites from the physical demands of the race while also serving as social hubs where runners can exchange stories or words of encouragement before heading back out onto the trails. The elevation profile varies significantly but provides a balanced challenge that rewards those who train diligently.
Given that this is an alpine event, participants should prepare for temperatures ranging between 12°C and 25°C with occasional light winds blowing across the mountain slopes. With minimal rainfall expected during race week, trail conditions will likely remain firm yet slightly soft underfoot, making it ideal for sustained running efforts without undue worry about mud or slushy ground.

As registration opens, aspiring runners should sign up early to secure their spots at ponderosaracing.com and avoid last-minute fees. Packet pickup occurs the night before from 3:30pm to 5:30pm at Spokane Fleet Feet located in Kendall Yards where participants can collect their race materials along with detailed maps of all routes involved. On the day itself, all distances start and finish at Selkirk Lodge within Mt. Spokane State Park.
For newcomers looking for more information or assistance, be sure to visit the official website ponderosaracing.com or reach out directly via email if you have any specific questions about accommodations near the park area. Remember that race day requires a bit of early arrival time as runners should arrive by 6:30am sharp for safety briefings and pre-race preparations.
The Kan Mt. Spokane Trail Run on June 6th, 2026, invites all trail enthusiasts back to this stunning setting in Washington’s largest state park. It promises a day full of adventure, camaraderie among fellow runners, and an opportunity to push personal boundaries while enjoying the natural beauty that Mount Spokane State Park has to offer.