The McKenzie River Trail Run follows one of America’s most spectacular trail running routes, tracing the McKenzie River through the Willamette National Forest on a 31-mile point-to-point course from Carmen Reservoir (near Koosah Falls and Icecap Campground) to the finish line across from the McKenzie River Ranger Station. The trail passes two spectacular waterfalls \u2014 Koosah Falls and Sahalie Falls \u2014 skirts the crystalline shores of Clear Lake, traverses ancient lava fields, crosses log bridges over the turquoise McKenzie River, and passes the hauntingly beautiful Tamolitch Pool (Blue Pool), where the entire river disappears underground through a lava tube.<\/p>\n
The 2026 McKenzie River Trail Run is scheduled for Saturday, June 13, 2026, with registration at UltraSignup. This is a 501(c)3 non-profit event operated under a special use permit from the Willamette National Forest. As Oregon’s oldest ultramarathon, it draws runners from across the Pacific Northwest who come specifically for the incomparable trail quality. The course is technically challenging but features only moderate elevation gain.<\/p>\n
The McKenzie River Trail is widely considered one of the most beautiful trails in America, and running it in race format \u2014 with aid stations, marking, and fellow trail runners \u2014 is a special privilege. The combination of old-growth Douglas fir forest, volcanic geology, crystal-clear river pools, and historic log bridges creates a sensory experience that no road race can match. Many runners describe Tamolitch Pool as the most stunning aid station stop in their racing career.<\/p>\n
This is a true ultramarathon \u2014 train specifically for 31 miles on technical single-track trail. Register early through UltraSignup \u2014 the race fills with a dedicated local and regional field. Plan to arrive the day before to explore the McKenzie River Highway and acclimate to the forest setting. Bring trail shoes with good traction for the lava rock sections.<\/p>\n