Waldo 50K is a 50km ultra marathon in Oakridge, United States. Distance: 50km. Elevation: 2,100m D+. Difficulty: moderate (Challenge Rating 35/100). DNF rate: 8%. Time limit: 10h. Surface: trail. Established 2003.
Waldo 50K
Oakridge, Oregon, United States
"50K around one of the purest lakes in the world through Oregon's volcanic Cascades."
Score Breakdown
Based on distance, vertical gain per km, terrain difficulty, weather extremes, historical DNF rate, and race format.
A scenic 50K loop around Waldo Lake in the Oregon Cascades — pristine waters, volcanic terrain, and Pacific Crest Trail running.
The Course
A scenic loop through the Oregon Cascades around Waldo Lake, one of the purest bodies of water in the world. The course traverses volcanic terrain, old-growth forests, and high alpine meadows. Pacific Crest Trail sections offer quintessential Oregon mountain running.
hilly
loop
5
2,200m
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.
Experience ratings are based on runner reports, race reviews, community feedback, and editorial assessment. Scenery reflects the visual quality of the course. Organization covers aid stations, logistics, and communication. Community measures the atmosphere, inclusivity, and camaraderie among runners.
Race Day Weather
18°C
8° – 28°
30%
10%
Oregon Cascades summer. Warm, dry days. Cool mornings. Wildfire smoke can be an issue in August.
Stats & Records
2003
300
6:30:00
3:32:22
Max King (2019)
4:12:45
Yiou Wang (2022)
30%
5
5%
Entry
$85
February
instant
Lore & Trivia
Waldo has become one of Oregon's most beloved trail races, celebrating the pure beauty of the Cascades and the crystal-clear waters of Waldo Lake.
- ▸ Waldo Lake has the clearest water of any lake in Oregon — visibility extends to 30m.
- ▸ The Pacific Crest Trail section gives runners a taste of one of America's great thru-hikes.
- ▸ The volcanic terrain of the Oregon Cascades creates unique pumice-covered trails.
- ▸ Despite 'only' being a 50K, it sells out within minutes due to its stunning setting.
- ▸ Established in 2003.
The 50K around Waldo Lake — pristine water, Douglas fir forest, and the Oregon Cascades. A perfect introduction to Northwest trail running.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Waldo 50K? +
Waldo 50K is a 50km (50km) ultra marathon with 2,100m of elevation gain. The course is loop on trail terrain.
How hard is Waldo 50K? +
Waldo 50K is rated moderate with a Challenge Rating of 35/100 (Moderate). The DNF rate is 8%. Runners have 10 hours to finish.
How do I enter Waldo 50K? +
Entry is by lottery. Entry costs $85. with a maximum of 350 starters.
What is the weather like at Waldo 50K? +
Average temperature is 18°C (range 8°C to 28°C) with 30% humidity and a 10% chance of rain. Oregon Cascades summer. Warm, dry days. Cool mornings. Wildfire smoke can be an issue in August.
Are crew and pacers allowed at Waldo 50K? +
No crew access is permitted. Pacers are not allowed.
What is the course record for Waldo 50K? +
The men's course record is 3:32:22 set by Max King in 2019. The women's course record is 4:12:45 set by Yiou Wang in 2022.
What is the average finish time for Waldo 50K? +
The average finish time is 6:30:00. About 300 runners finish each year. The DNF rate is 8%.
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