Bucket List Runs on Washington’s Olympic Peninsu
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Port Angeles, Washington, May 17, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Foot running season in Port Angeles, Washington kicks off every spring with several running, walking and multi-sport events on the Olympic Peninsula and in the Olympic National Park. These four fitness events and runs should be on your bucket list:
North Olympic Discovery Marathon – Every June
This scenic run along the Strait of Juan de Fuca takes place along a section of the Olympic Discovery Trail – a 70+ mile paved trail system that extends from Port Townsend to Port Angeles and beyond. This full marathon, half-marathon, 10K and 5K running event is an official Boston Marathon qualifier and a certified USA Track & Field course. There’s also a marathon walk, a marathon relay option and a 1.2-mile kids’ run. The best place for spectating is the finish line at City Pier in downtown Port Angeles. A percentage of race fees go to local charities – over $20,000 was given out in 2017. Over 600 volunteers ensure this race is well-organized and the local craft beer and wine at the finish line keeps the waterfront party going. Riding your bike to the start line is encouraged – bike parking is available at the new green bike racks in front of H2O Waterfront Bistro in downtown.
GOAT Run (Great Olympic Adventure Trail) – Every September
This is the only run on the Olympic Peninsula that goes into the Olympic National Park. Due to popularity, the GOAT Run will add a second wave to their half-marathon lineup an hour behind the first wave. New for this year, you can run a full marathon (50K) with an out and back on the lakeside Spruce Railroad Trail that hugs the shore of Lake Crescent offering stunning sights of Devil’s Punchbowl. Both the half-marathon and full marathon end at a finish line 50-feet from the shore of Lake Crescent followed by an after-party known for the “best snacks.”
The Big Hurt – Every September
Originally started in 1997, this multi-sport event was resurrected in 2015 by athlete demand after a decade-long hiatus. You’ll tackle four legs in this race: a 10K run, mountain biking, kayaking and road biking. Individuals and teams can sign up to compete. New categories have been added for those who are 50+ as well as high school and first responder teams (fire, police, military). Team challenges have been added to the mix where the team who recruits the most teams can win a prize package and free entry into 2019’s event. The finish line along Port Angeles’ waterfront is a flurry of fun with a transition “party zone” where the four legs of the race all finish in one spot!
The OAT Run (Olympic Adventure Trail) – Every April https://oatrun.org/
This annual 12K and half-marathon rewards you with deep-green forests and big views along miles of adventure trails on a point-to-point course where you’ll never see the same thing twice. You won’t want to miss the famous BBQ and after-party at Harbinger Winery!
Special Lodging Deals
Look for special hotel and lodging packages offered by Port Angeles’ hotels and motels. The Red Lion Hotel, along Port Angeles’ waterfront, has discounted lodging specials and a free shuttle to the start line.
About Visit Port Angeles
Visit Port Angeles is the official destination marketing organization (DMO) of Port Angeles, Washington – the largest city on Washington State’s Olympic Peninsula and the primary gateway to the Olympic National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We are a non-membership economic development extension of the City of Port Angeles with a mission to promote tourism and create nothing but happy vacation memories. To plan your Olympic National Park vacation or to order the latest Visitor Guide, go to www.VisitPortAngeles.com and follow the hashtag #VisitPortAngeles.
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Lynnette Braillard Visit Port Angeles 541-350-0594 hello@visitportangeles.com
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