Gorge Waterfalls 50K is a 50km ultra marathon in Cascade Locks, United States. Distance: 50km. Elevation: 2,100m D+. Difficulty: accessible (Challenge Rating 35/100). DNF rate: 7%. Time limit: 10h. Surface: trail. Established 2013.
Gorge Waterfalls 50K
Cascade Locks, Oregon, United States
"50km past cascading waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge. Run behind waterfalls in America's most scenic 50K."
America's most scenic 50K — running behind waterfalls, through old-growth forest, and along the dramatic Columbia River Gorge.
The Course
An out-and-back along the Eagle Creek and Columbia River Gorge trails past numerous waterfalls. The course passes behind waterfalls, across narrow cliff-side trails, and through old-growth forest. Incredibly scenic but technically demanding trail.
hilly
out-and-back
5
Runner Experience
Standard aid station support with food, drinks, and basic medical assistance at regular intervals.
Warm, inclusive finish line with a strong community feel. Runners celebrate together regardless of finish time.
Race Day Weather
6°C
2° – 10°
80%
60%
Pacific Northwest winter — cool, wet, and often foggy. Rain is more likely than not. The waterfalls are at their most spectacular.
Stats & Records
2013
500
07:30:00
Entry
$110
September
instant
Lore & Trivia
The Gorge Waterfalls 50K runs through the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon — a dramatic basalt canyon where dozens of waterfalls cascade from moss-covered cliff faces. The course passes behind, beside, and above more waterfalls in 50 kilometres than most people see in a lifetime. Oregon's trail running scene is among the most passionate in America, and the Gorge — with its accessible terrain and extraordinary beauty — is one of its signature venues.
- ▸ The course passes behind Tunnel Falls — runners literally run through a tunnel carved behind a waterfall.
- ▸ The Columbia River Gorge contains more waterfalls per square mile than almost anywhere in North America.
- ▸ February timing means waterfalls are at peak flow, creating an incredibly dramatic running experience.
- ▸ Way Too Cool and Gorge Waterfalls are considered the two best 'first ultra' 50Ks in America.
- ▸ Established in 2013.
The Columbia River Gorge in spring — every other turn reveals another waterfall. Oregon trail running at its most beautiful.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Gorge Waterfalls 50K? +
Gorge Waterfalls 50K is a 50km (50km) ultra marathon with 2,100m of elevation gain. The course is out-and-back on trail terrain.
How hard is Gorge Waterfalls 50K? +
Gorge Waterfalls 50K is rated accessible with a Challenge Rating of 35/100 (Moderate). The DNF rate is 7%. Runners have 10 hours to finish.
What is the weather like at Gorge Waterfalls 50K? +
Average temperature is 6°C (range 2°C to 10°C) with 80% humidity and a 60% chance of rain. Pacific Northwest winter — cool, wet, and often foggy. Rain is more likely than not. The waterfalls are at their most spectacular.
Are crew and pacers allowed at Gorge Waterfalls 50K? +
No crew access is permitted. Pacers are not allowed.
What is the average finish time for Gorge Waterfalls 50K? +
The average finish time is 07:30:00. About 500 runners finish each year. The DNF rate is 7%.
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