Run into summer on the solstice
Overview
The Alpine Solstice Half Marathon is the perfect way to celebrate the longest days of the year and kick off mountain running season. With smooth Central Oregon singletrack, views of the Cascades, and an energizing summer vibe, this race makes the most of Bend’s outdoor playground.
Whether you are chasing speed on the half marathon’s runnable course or testing yourself on the challenging new 55K, you will be greeted with alpine air, post-race brews, and a community that thrives on adventure. Join the fun and welcome summer on the trails with Alpine Running.
Course
The half marathon course rolls through the Deschutes National Forest just off Cascade Lakes Highway, weaving through classic Central Oregon singletrack. With only 1,300ft of elevation gain, this is a fast and flowing trail half marathon that is ideal for newcomers to trail running as well as seasoned racers looking for speed. Expect smooth trails, forest shade, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Cutoff Details
5HR overall, cutoff at Aid Station Mile 8.2 by 12:30PM
Aid Stations
Aid stations are fully stocked with trail favorites including peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, chips, cookies, bananas, other sweet snacks, water, Coke, Ginger Ale, electrolyte drink, and gels. Runners will have access to everything they need to fuel their day in the mountains.
Half Marathon: Mile 8.2 → Main Aid Station → Cutoff 12:30PM
Logistics
Schedule
6:00AM → Bib pickup begins
7:00AM → 55K race start
9:00AM → Half Marathon start
Post-race → Food, Cascade Lakes Brewing Co beer, and Athletic Brewing non-alcoholic beer available for all participants and volunteers
Awards ceremony follows race finish
Bib Pickup
Bib pickup takes place on race morning at Swampy Lakes Sno Park starting at 6:00AM and up to 15 minutes before your race start.
Drop Bags
No drop bags are permitted for this event.
Crew & Pacers
Crews and visitors are welcome at the start and finish line at Swampy Lakes Sno Park. Please note that the trails remain open to the public and shared with other users including hikers and mountain bikers. Visitors are encouraged to cheer and celebrate at the finish area.
Volunteers
Volunteers bring the race to life and are welcomed with open arms. Roles may include helping at aid stations, bib check-in, or finish line support. Sign up through the Alpine Running website to get involved.
Swag & Medals
Each finisher receives a custom medal. All participants who register by May 17 are guaranteed their shirt size. Post-race food, Backporch Coffee, and beer from Cascade Lakes Brewing Co and Athletic Brewing are included for participants and volunteers.
Getting There
Nearest airports are Redmond (RDM), about 45 minutes from the start, and Portland (PDX), about 3.5 hours away. Lodging is widely available in Bend, Redmond, and Sisters.
Driving Directions
Passes & Permits

NW Forest Pass required for parking at certain trailheads or aid stations
Parking
Parking is available at Swampy Lakes Sno Park. Please carpool when possible, as spaces are limited.
Lodging
There are numerous hotels and motels in Bend, Redmond, and Sisters. Camping is available in designated campgrounds or dispersed areas in the Deschutes National Forest.
Requirements
The Alpine Solstice races are open to all runners ready to take on singletrack trails in the Cascades. While prior trail experience is recommended for the 55K, the half marathon is accessible to those comfortable with half marathon distance.
Policies
Cancelations & Deferrals
Race Policies
Charity & Beneficiary
Proceeds benefit the Ridgeview High School cross country and track team, helping support youth athletes in Central Oregon.
Land Acknowledgement
This race takes place on the traditional lands of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. We honor the history, stewardship, and ongoing contributions of Indigenous communities to this region.
About Alpine Running

Alpine Running is a trail race organization rooted in the spirit of the Cascade Mountains, offering a collection of rugged, scenic, and soul-filling events across Oregon and Washington. Founded in 2017 by longtime mountain runner and nurse Trevor Hostetler, Alpine Running was born from a deep passion for wild places and the transformative power of endurance running. Since then, it has grown into a close-knit community of runners who value adventure, camaraderie, and purposeful connection to the trails.
At its core, Alpine Running embodies a low-key yet high-quality ethos. Events are marked by personal touches, from meticulously flagged courses to thoughtful safety planning and warm, volunteer-powered aid stations. Whether you’re pushing your limits in a mountain ultra or enjoying the views on a shorter course, every Alpine race is designed to challenge and uplift.
From the Elkhorn Crest 50 to other remote alpine races, Alpine Running events are as much about self-discovery as they are about competition. If you're seeking meaningful mountain miles with an authentic trail family, Alpine Running will welcome you with open arms and wild terrain.

Disclaimer
We make every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information on Kåduka, but details may change. Please always confirm the latest information on the official race website. See something that needs correcting? Send us a note at feedback@kaduka.app





