Overview

Have trouble saying "Farewell" to the Summer? Instead of lamenting the ebbing tide of the season, why not give it the proper send-off? Squak Mountain State Park is the hidden gem of the Issaquah Alps. Picturesque trails, tall timbers, bubbling creeks, mossy rocks and a summit of 2024 feet make this the perfect location to spend one of the last Saturdays of the Summer, and all just 20 minutes from downtown Seattle!

Run the Mountain offers three different single loop distances to challenge runners of all experience levels. Whether you've always wanted to try trail running, or you're a seasoned veteran of the trails, Run the mountain will reward you with both beauty and challenge. All distances begin and end at the May Valley Trailhead of Squak Mountain State Park.

When you're finished with your run, enjoy fresh baked wood-fired pizza from Veracci Pizza as well as well deserved beverage from Bellevue Brewing Company. Post run celebration also includes an inspiring word from our beneficiary Treehouse bringing to light the challenges and "mountains" that children in foster care face every day and how we can help.

Course Desriptions

5K Route - Leaves May Valley Trailhead and twists through the towering second growth forest crossing 2 foot bridges and bubbling creeks. The route rises just over 550 feet in elevation before turning back down the main logging road to the trailhead.

10K Route - Leaves the May Valley Trailhead and climbs through the second growth forest, fern covered stream beds and past the historic Bullitt Fireplace. Eventually reaching the central summit at an elevation of 2139 feet before a speedy downhill all the way to the finish line.

25K Route - Leaves the May Valley Trailhead and climbs through the second growth forest twisting through creek beds and fern covered hillsides before eventually descending into the gorgeous Phil's Creek Valley, turning around the north side of the mountain, traversing the eastside trail and eventually making the tough climb up to the central summit. From there, is all downhill (well... mostly), back to the trailhead and finsih line where cold beer and hot pizza await!

Aid Station

One aid station will be set up at just under 4 miles in to help you refuel and keep you going throughout the race. The support staff will be there with snacks, water and electrolyte drinks. High-Fives are optional, but suggested as the toughest climb of the trail lies just beyond the aid station. The 25K route will pass this aid station twice at 3.75 miles and 11.75 miles in. Please Note -- There is no aid on the 5K course --. All runners are encouraged to bring plenty of fluids and a snack as the course is challenging.

Our Beneficiary

Youth in foster care face mountains every day. Without the same care and resources that benefit the average child, kids in foster care face an uphill battle to succeed in our fast-paced society. Only half of youth in foster care graduate high school, and continue to face challenges long after leaving the system. NuHope Street, along with its beneficiary, Treehouse for Kids, aims to change that statistic.

Run the Mountain is an event that will raise funds for youth in foster care, giving them resources and supplies to have a positive experience in school. Monies raised from the event will help provide necessities like clothes and school supplies, funding for after-school activities, athletic fees, art and music programs, drivers’ education, summer camp, tutoring and much more.

Event's current local time: 7:15 PM PT