Description
Sequestered along the shores of Lake Chelan surrounded by the formidable peaks and crags of the North Cascades lies a valley of impressive beauty and simplicity. Stehekin is as much an ideal as it is a village set apart from the pace and “progress” of modernity. Inaccessible except by boat, plane or trail, this community is a small enclave of gardens, artisans, ranchers, and others drawn to a life defined by mountains and a deep connection to place.
Overview
Wednesday, Day 1: Meet in Burlington WA, Run into Stehekin
We meet runners at 8 am at Bob’s Burgers and Brews in Burlington WA and operate a shuttle out to the Cascade Pass Trailhead.
Cascade Pass: At the terminus of the Cascade River Road is remote trailhead leading to some of the most expansive and inspiring views of the North Cascades. A 3 mile climb of 2,500′ crests with epic views before dropping into the upper headwaters of the Stehekin River. From the pass the trail parallels the river for another 18 miles to the High Bridge Camp where runners meet a shuttle leading to the Stehekin Valley Ranch.
Thursday/Friday Day 2/3: Experience and Explore Stehekin
Once in the valley there are many options for trail running and peak bagging. One also has the option spending all or part of a day lakeside lounging, making the stop at the world famous Stehekin bakery, and exploring the many historical sites in the valley. Over years we’ve honed in on the best trails and intentionally added an “extra” day to this trip to give runners the option to experience both the running and leisure elements of exploring the valley.
Saturday, Day 4: Run to Rainy Pass. Shuttle Back to Burlington WA
After a last hearty breakfast we catch the 8am shuttle back to High Bridge Camp. Here our group re-divides for the second half of the “horseshoe” run out to Rainy Pass. With two routes to choose from, the direct route out the Pacific Crest trail, or the optional bonus miles over Rainbow Pass, this last day of running doesn’t disappoint. A waiting Aspire shuttle brings runners back to Burlington, WA. Generally arriving between 6-8pm.
Accomodations
Running to Stehekin means hot showers, home cooked meals, and sleeping in comfortable beds. For this trip Aspire has partnered with the Stehekin Valley Ranch for food and lodging. The Ranch offers home cooked meals and both furnished cabins and rustic tent cabins.
Tent Cabins are built with wood frame walls, have canvas roofs and screened in windows. They are furnished with queen, double, and twin beds (configurations vary by cabin), small dressers and night stands, and kerosene and battery operated lanterns. All cabins are within 250' of the main Ranch Building, which houses the common bathrooms and showers.
Ranch Cabins are fully enclosed sleeping cabins with their own private bathroom with shower. These cabins also have electric lights, and limited outlets. Furnished with queen and twin beds, a futon or daybed, armoire, and a table with chairs.
Gear
Running Gear: Each runner is responsible for their own running kit including snacks and clothing appropriate for the possibility of rain and/or snow and/or daytime temperatures in the mid 70’s.
Ranch Gear: Comfortable evening and sleepwear, personal toiletries and accessories can either be packed into the valley or they can be mailed in advance to Stehekin Valley Ranch.
Trip Insurance
Every year we have at least one runner who due to injury, illness, or personal/familial circumstances can not participate in their registered trip. While registrations can be transferred, Aspire does not issue refunds. See our FAQ’s. We strongly encourage each runner to purchase 3rd party trip insurance that will reimburse the cost of registration in the event that you are unable to participate in the event.
About Aspire
Aspire courses are non-competitive runs that embrace the challenge and adventure of traveling in wild and scenic terrain. Each event operates in accordance with its respective wilderness land use designation and authorization. Course fees include: transportation, the safety net of a trail guide, and a post run celebratory meal. Check out our website for more information: www.AspireAdventureRunning.com
Event's current local time: 4:07 PM PT
