Cottontail 6 and12 Hour

Lace up for an unforgettable challenge at the Cottontail 6 and 12 Hour race, set for April 18, 2026, in the stunning Carkeek Park in Seattle, WA. This "brutally beautiful" event offers both 6-hour and 12-hour options, inviting runners to test their limits on a dynamic 1.93-mile clockwise loop. The course is a trail runner's delight, boasting steep stairs, rolling terrain, and abundant singletrack winding through lush green trees and glorious ferns. Each demanding loop packs 436 feet of vertical gain, all while offering picturesque views of Puget Sound. Typical race day conditions in mid-April offer pleasant highs around 60F and lows near 43F, with a low 13% chance of precipitation, creating ideal running weather.

Beyond the challenging course, the Cottontail 6 and 12 Hour stands out for its festive and supportive atmosphere, attracting runners who return year after year. The start and finish area, located beside Puget Sound, buzzes with encouragement and camaraderie. Aid stations are exceptionally well-stocked, offering "awesome fuel" including homemade soup and a variety of treats, with volunteers providing enthusiastic support through every lap. Unique touches abound, from handmade bibs and lap counts marked with star stickers to hidden Easter eggs on the course offering bonus raffle tickets.

What truly sets this race apart is its commitment to both community and conservation. As an Endless Trails fundraiser, proceeds from your registration directly support local trail work, education, and advocacy throughout the Northwest region. Embrace a low-impact philosophy with this event, which minimizes waste and sources aid and prizes from local businesses. Forget traditional medals; participants receive "something awesome simply for showing up," with past winners celebrated with eccentric prizes that reflect the race's fun-loving spirit.