Silver Falls State Park, located in the heart of Oregon, is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a stunning array of natural wonders and a thrilling trail running experience. The park hosts several trail running events throughout the year, including the Silver Falls Trail Half Marathon, Silver Falls 5K Trail Run, and the Silver Falls Trail Challenge, each catering to runners of all skill levels.
The Silver Falls Trail Half Marathon
The Silver Falls Trail Half Marathon is a must-attend event for any trail running enthusiast. Covering a distance of 13.1 miles, the course takes runners through the breathtaking scenery of Silver Falls State Park, featuring significant elevation gain, mud, rocks, a creek crossing, and plenty of challenging hills.
| Key Details | |
|---|---|
| Distance | 13.1 miles |
| Location | Silver Falls State Park, Silverton, OR 97385 |
| Registration | Opens August 1, 2022, and is limited to 1200 runners with two wave starts. |
| Course | Scenic, with significant elevation gain, mud, rocks, a creek crossing, and lots of hills. |
The Silver Falls 5K Trail Run
For those looking for a shorter, yet equally exhilarating, trail running experience, the Silver Falls 5K Trail Run is the perfect choice. Starting and finishing at the South Falls Day Use Area, the 5K course features a mix of paved roads and the Maple Ridge Trail, offering a challenging and scenic run.
| Key Details | |
|---|---|
| Distance | 5 kilometers |
| Location | Silver Falls State Park, Silverton, OR 97381 |
| Registration | Opens August 1, 2024, and is limited, selling out early. |
| Course | Starts and finishes at the South Falls Day Use Area, featuring a short paved road and the Maple Ridge Trail. |
The Silver Falls Trail Challenge
For the ultimate trail running experience, the Silver Falls Trail Challenge offers both a 1/4 Marathon and a 1/2 Marathon distance. The course starts and finishes at the South Falls Day Use Area, taking runners along the iconic Trail of 10 Falls. The 1/4 Marathon is a single loop, while the 1/2 Marathon is two loops.
| Key Details | |
|---|---|
| Distances | 1/4 Marathon and 1/2 Marathon |
| Location | Silver Falls State Park, Sublimity, OR |
| Registration | Opens August 1, 2024, and is limited, selling out early. |
| Course | Starts and finishes at the South Falls Day Use Area, featuring the Trail of 10 Falls. |
General Information
In addition to the race details, there are a few important things to keep in mind when planning your visit to Silver Falls State Park for these trail running events:
- Parking Fee: Silver Falls State Park collects a fee of $6 per car for parking (cash or card).
- Packet Pick-Up: Typically held the day before the race, with race-day pick-up available starting at 7am.
- Pet Policy: Pets are not allowed on the courses of the Silver Falls Trail Runs.
- Elevation Gain: The elevation gain for the 5K trail run is not explicitly stated but is described as having some elevation gain and loss.
- Lodging: Several options are available, including Silver Falls State Park, Smith Creek Village, Silverton Inn, Oregon Garden Resort, and Sublimity Rodeway Inn.
- Race Shirts: Optional T-shirts are available for purchase online with race registration, made of 100% polyester technical moisture-wicking material.
Conclusion
Silver Falls State Park is a true gem for trail running enthusiasts, offering a variety of challenging and scenic events throughout the year. Whether you choose to tackle the Silver Falls Trail Half Marathon, the Silver Falls 5K Trail Run, or the Silver Falls Trail Challenge, you’re sure to be rewarded with breathtaking views, a sense of accomplishment, and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of this stunning Oregon state park.