Lace up for the scenic and challenging Circle the Bay 30K on Saturday, August 8, 2026, in beautiful North Bend, Oregon. This historic race, first run in the mid-1970s, invites runners and walkers to experience the unique charm of Oregon's Adventure Coast, tracing a full 30-kilometer (18.6-mile) loop around the picturesque Coos Bay. Starting and finishing at Ferry Road Park, the course promises diverse terrain: a relatively flat first leg gives way to moderately rolling hills in the second, culminating in a "hill lover's" third section that includes a memorable crossing of the mile-long Conde McCullough Memorial Bridge. While offering stunning waterfront views and glimpses of diverse marine life in the estuary, participants should note the course is open to vehicle traffic, requiring vigilance.
Whether you choose to tackle the full 30K solo or form a spirited 3-person relay team, Circle the Bay offers an engaging experience. Water aid stations are strategically placed approximately every 6 miles along the course to keep you hydrated. Typical race day conditions in early August are ideal for running, with comfortable highs around 67°F and lows around 54°F, and only a 1% chance of precipitation. After crossing the finish line, celebrate your accomplishment at a lively post-race barbecue with beverages, including beer from 7 Devils Brewing, fostering a fun, grassroots community atmosphere.
Beyond the personal challenge, participating in Circle the Bay supports a great cause, with proceeds benefiting the North Bend cross-country high school team. Embrace the rich running tradition of this region, famously the hometown of distance running legend Steve "Pre" Prefontaine, and discover why so many runners return year after year to "Circle the Bay."
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