Based on data from station USW00003131 (3 mi away)
The Volcanic 50, featuring a challenging 25K distance on August 2, 2026, is an exceptionally rugged and remote trail race held at the iconic Mt. St. Helens in Washington State, not San Diego, CA. Organized by Go Beyond Racing, this event offers runners a unique opportunity to experience an active volcano's diverse and demanding terrain.
The 25K course provides a genuine Mt. St. Helens experience without requiring a full circumnavigation of the volcano. Runners will encounter boulder fields, sections of the famed Loowit Trail, a debris flow, and lush forests, all while enjoying jaw-dropping views of the mountain and the surrounding Cascade mountains. With approximately 3,300 feet of elevation gain and loss, this route is described as hard, pushing participants through varied trail conditions from sandy and rocky stretches in the blast zone to hard-packed forest paths. Aid stations along the course are well-stocked with gels, electrolyte drinks, water, soft drinks, and various snacks like PB&Js, potato chips, and gummy bears, though runners should be prepared for cupless stations and some limited aid options at certain points. The race starts and finishes at the Marble Mountain Sno Park, which also offers car-camping options the night before the race. Typical race day conditions in early August in this region can range from hot and windy to cold, rainy, or even snowy, with exposed sections requiring preparedness for the elements.