Yakima River Canyon Marathon
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Yakima River Canyon Marathon and Half-Marathon
The event takes place on March 28, 2026 and is a point-to-point road race along Washington State Route 821 between Ellensburg and Selah, WA. The course is USATF certified and travels through the Yakima River Canyon. Distances offered:
- Marathon
- Half-Marathon (starts at the 13.1-mile mark of the marathon course)
The race is presented by the Yakima Hard Core Runners Club and is associated with Marathon Maniacs.
Course, support and logistics
The marathon course follows an asphalt state highway, includes two major hills, many curves, and a long downhill near the finish that produces a net elevation loss of a few hundred feet. Aid stations are located every 2–3 miles and provide water, Powerade, and basic medical supplies; medical personnel and restrooms are available on course. Only official and local vehicles are allowed on the course; no bicycles or baby joggers are permitted. Spectators may view the race at the start, finish, and the Thrall Road intersection with Canyon Road.
The course is open for seven hours. An early start is available for runners who expect to be on course for about six-and-a-half hours or more, subject to race director approval; early starters are not eligible for age-group awards. The half-marathon is limited to 200 entries due to bus logistics; the marathon currently has no entry cap. Race headquarters is the Selah Civic Center. Entry includes a non-refundable T-shirt, race-day transportation if needed, a finisher medal, and a finisher’s certificate. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.