Hellz Bellz

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Embark on an unforgettable trail adventure at the Hellz Bellz, set to challenge runners on July 5, 2026, in the rugged beauty of Yacolt, Washington. This event, offering a formidable 50-mile ultramarathon and a grueling 26.2-mile Purgatory Trail Marathon, promises a blend of intense challenge and breathtaking Pacific Northwest scenery. Typical race day conditions in early July bring pleasant highs around 77°F and lows near 50°F, with only a 4% chance of precipitation, providing an ideal climate for tackling the demanding course.

The Hellz Bellz course is renowned for its "intense and grueling single track climb up the Bells Mountain trail," featuring significant elevation changes of approximately 9,000 feet for the 50-miler and 6,000 feet for the marathon. Runners will navigate "technical climbs, amazing waterfalls and breath taking views," with sections of "substantial rocks, roots and/or ruts" through clear cuts and stream crossings. The journey offers stunning vistas of Mt. St. Helens, especially along the "most scenic section of the day" on the Tarbell Trail. The 50-mile route includes a challenging counter-clockwise loop on the Tarbell Trail, bringing runners back to the "epic" Yacolt Burn Aid Station, which is celebrated for its "full grill" serving everything from breakfast to burgers and quesadillas.

Runners will find well-supported aid stations strategically placed along the course, including the generously stocked Yacolt Burn Aid Station, with additional stops at Grouse Vista, Tarbell, and Moulton Falls Bridge. Participants are required to carry a minimum of 32 ounces of hydration due to the distances between aid stations. One small drop bag is permitted and will be transported to the Yacolt Burn Aid Station, while crew access is available at several key points. The race culminates with an exhilarating descent back to the Moulton Falls Arch Bridge, where finishers earn the unique opportunity to "Ring the Bell!". Packet pickup and check-in are conveniently located at Yacolt Recreation Park, which also offers included tent camping the night before the race. This hidden gem of a trail run promises a challenging yet rewarding experience amidst pristine wilderness, making runners "rejoice in the pain" as they soak in the views.

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