Yakima River Canyon Marathon
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Event overview
The Yakima River Canyon Marathon and Half-Marathon takes place on March 28, 2026. The event is point-to-point and USATF certified. The courses run along Washington State Route 821 between Ellensburg and Selah, Washington, and are Boston qualifying courses. Entry includes a T-shirt, race-day transportation if needed, a finisher medal, and a finisher’s certificate.
Distances:
- Marathon
- Half Marathon
Registration is online only; there is no in-person registration on race day or the day before. The half-marathon field is capped at 200 entries due to bus logistics. Awards are given to the top three male and female finishers and to age-group placings (male and female 19 and under, then five-year increments to 85+). Awards are distributed in real time at the finish area.
Course, logistics and support
The marathon start is near the Days Inn in Ellensburg, on Canyon Road about 0.2 mile south of the Berry Road intersection. The marathon course follows the Yakima River downstream, includes two major hills, many curves, and a long downhill approaching the finish near Selah and the Yakima Valley orchard and ranch area. The course has a net elevation loss of a few hundred feet.
Aid stations are provided every 2-3 miles with water, Powerade, and basic medical supplies; restrooms and medical personnel are available. Drop bags may be left at designated locations and will be supervised, but the organizers are not responsible for lost or stolen items. Bus service moves participants between selected hotels, the start areas, and the finish. The course is open for seven hours and early starts require prior approval; early starters are not eligible for age-group awards. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.