Run, camp, and celebrate fall trails at Suttle Lake
Overview
Suttle Lake Trailfest is more than just a race — it is a fall trail running celebration. Tucked into Oregon’s beautiful South Shore Campground, the weekend combines endurance racing with the magic of crisp autumn air, fiery foliage, and a lakeside atmosphere that’s both relaxing and electric.
Whether you choose the 24-hour grind, the 12-hour push, or the speedy 6-hour test, you will loop a stunning 3.6-mile trail as many times as you can. Runners, family, and friends enjoy free camping, a festive community vibe, great food, and sponsor prizes. Suttle Lake Trailfest is about adventure, endurance, and sharing the trails together.
Course
The course is a 3.6-mile loop that winds through the pine forests surrounding Suttle Lake. With 110ft of gain per loop, the trail is approachable yet rewarding, keeping you moving without overwhelming climbs. Expect soft dirt trails, serene lake views, and the friendly energy of runners crossing paths on the loop. This is a perfect chance to test your endurance while soaking in Oregon’s crisp autumn beauty.
Cutoff Details
Aid Stations
There will be one well-stocked aid station located at the start and finish area. Runners will find food, drinks, and hydration supplies ready every time they complete a loop.
Logistics
Schedule
Friday
5:00PM - 7:00PM | Early check-in at South Shore Campground
Saturday
6:30AM - 8:45AM | Bib pickup at start/finish
9:00AM | 6-Hour start
Sunday
8:00AM | 24-Hour finish and awards ceremony
Bib Pickup
Bib pickup is available at the start/finish area on race morning between 6:30AM and 8:45AM.
Drop Bags
Drop bags can be left at the start/finish area. Any unclaimed bags will be held by race staff until the conclusion of the event.
Crew & Pacers
The looped course design makes it easy for family, friends, and visitors to cheer runners on throughout the day. Crews may set up near the start/finish area but must respect shared space with other runners and campers. Pacers are not permitted.
Volunteers
Swag & Medals
All participants will receive a custom finisher medal. Top 3 female, male, and non-binary runners in each race will earn sponsor prizes.
Getting There
The nearest major airport is Redmond, Oregon, located 45 minutes from the race start. Portland International Airport is approximately 3 hours away by car. Sisters, Camp Sherman, Bend, and Redmond all provide nearby lodging options.
Driving Directions
Passes & Permits
Oregon State Park Pass required for this race.
Parking
Free parking is available at South Shore Campground near the race start/finish area.
Lodging
Camping is free at the start/finish at South Shore Campground. Lodging is available at Suttle Lake Lodge and Left Coast Lodge in Sisters. Hotels in Sisters, Camp Sherman, Bend, and Redmond are also nearby.
Requirements
Runners should come prepared for variable fall weather in the Oregon Cascades, which may range from cold mornings to warmer afternoons. No prior mileage experience is required, but participants should be comfortable with multi-loop endurance running.
Mandatory Gear
This is a cupless race. Runners must bring their own reusable cup or hydration system for aid stations.
Policies
Race Policies
Kid & Youth Policy
Children are welcome as spectators but there are no designated youth races or discounts offered.
Charity & Beneficiary
Each Alpine Running event supports a local community beneficiary. Proceeds from Suttle Lake Trailfest are donated to organizations that help maintain the natural spaces we run in.
Land Acknowledgement
Suttle Lake Trailfest takes place on the traditional lands of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. We honor the past, present, and future generations of Indigenous people who have stewarded this land.
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





