Jack & Jill Downhill Marathon, Half Marathon Washington

Embark on a truly unique and fast-paced running adventure at the Jack & Jill Downhill Marathon and Half Marathon, set to take place on July 25, 2026, in scenic North Bend, Washington. This highly-rated event is renowned as one of the world's fastest courses, offering an exceptional opportunity for a personal record or even a Boston Qualification on its USATF-certified routes. The marathon boasts a significant 2,000 to 2,100-foot net descent, with the half marathon featuring an impressive 1,100-foot net drop, predominantly along the hard-packed dirt and gravel of the picturesque Palouse to Cascades Trail, formerly known as the John Wayne Trail. Runners can anticipate ideal race day conditions, with typical highs around 72°F and lows around 52°F, and only a 7% chance of precipitation.

What truly sets this race apart is the unforgettable experience of traversing the 2 to 2.5-mile Snoqualmie Tunnel in the early miles of the marathon course. This pitch-black, cool, and damp segment provides a memorable start, requiring a headlamp or flashlight (which can be dropped off with volunteers at the tunnel's exit). Beyond the tunnel, both full and half marathoners will be immersed in breathtaking natural beauty, cruising through lush forests and past stunning mountain views, with only one minor 15-foot incline around mile 8. Aid stations, stocked with water, Gatorade, and GU gels at select stops, are strategically placed approximately every 2 to 2.5 miles, alongside readily available porta-potties.

Participants praise the Jack & Jill Downhill race for its excellent organization, enthusiastic volunteers, and rewarding finish line experience, where many celebrate new personal bests. While the trail surface is mostly smooth, some sections may have larger rocks or small puddles, so non-minimalist running shoes are recommended for optimal comfort. Marathoners arrange their own transport to the Hyak start, while half marathoners enjoy shuttles to a trailhead followed by a scenic one-mile walk to their start line. Post-race, shuttles conveniently return all runners to designated parking areas in North Bend.