Lace up your shoes for the Mary S. Young parkrun, a vibrant weekly 5K community event held on Saturday, September 26, 2026, in the scenic Mary S. Young Park in West Linn, Oregon. This free, volunteer-led run offers a welcoming atmosphere for participants of all ages and abilities, whether you prefer to walk, jog, or push for a new personal best.

The accurately measured 5K course treats runners to two engaging laps, traversing a mix of bark-chipped and gravel trails that wind through the park's dense, peaceful woods, circling soccer fields and offering glimpses of the Willamette River. While primarily a natural surface experience, a section of the Riverside Loop is paved. Runners can expect a dynamic route with "lots of hills" and "winding trails," including some notable inclines, such as a challenging 14% grade for approximately 400 feet and a steep 17% section near the beach. Typical race day conditions in late September offer pleasant weather, with historical highs around 73°F and lows near 50°F, accompanied by only a 10% chance of precipitation.

Mary S. Young parkrun stands out for its inclusive spirit and strong community focus. With over 100 events under its belt, it has cultivated a reputation as a friendly and supportive gathering, where participants frequently achieve personal bests and tourists are warmly welcomed. The start and finish lines are conveniently located near the bulletin board, shelter, and Heron Creek Loop Trail parking lot, with restrooms and water fountains readily available within the park. After crossing the finish line, many runners extend the camaraderie with a cherished post-parkrun coffee tradition, further cementing the event's reputation for fostering connections within the local running community.