Choose your adventure and conquer the Tiger Mountain peaks.
Overview
Tiger Claw is not just a race, it’s a test of grit, skill, and strategy. Set in the heart of the Issy Alps, Tiger Mountain’s trails have long challenged some of trail running’s finest athletes. Now, you have the chance to experience these iconic climbs for yourself. With three brutal ascents under a lush canopy of fir and moss, every step will push your limits. What makes Tiger Claw truly unique is that you choose the order in which you tackle the loops, giving you the freedom to strategize your own adventure. To earn the coveted Tiger Claw finisher title, all three loops must be completed within the race cutoff.
This is a race for the brave, the prepared, and the determined. Be ready for technical terrain, relentless climbs, and quad-burning descents. Tiger Claw will test your endurance, but it will also reward you with breathtaking views and the satisfaction of conquering one of the toughest challenges in the Pacific Northwest.
Course
The Tiger Claw course spans three of Tiger Mountain’s most demanding ascents. Trails are technical, with rocky scrambles, root-laden singletrack, and steep climbs that will test even experienced runners. Expect spectacular forest scenery, moss-covered ridges, and the thrill of racing where the best trail runners have trained for decades. Key highlights include stunning views from each summit, challenging switchbacks, and steep descents that demand focus and skill.
Cutoff Details
Aid Stations
Aid stations provide water, electrolyte drinks, and a variety of snacks to refuel runners. Each station is staffed by volunteers ready to offer support and encouragement. Aid Station details include:
3.2M → Pine Ridge → Cutoff 10:30AM → Drop Bag ✅
7.5M → Summit View → Cutoff 12:00PM → Drop Bag ✅
12.1M → Forest Junction → Cutoff 2:00PM → Drop Bag ✅
All stations are well stocked, and volunteers ensure every runner stays safe and fueled along the course.
Logistics
Schedule
Friday, May 8
8:00AM: Shakeout run with TRAIL SOCIETY & rabbit at High Point Way Parking Lot. Run the Green Loop (4.5 miles). Duration ~1 hour. Rabbit apparel giveaways at the top of the run.
3:00PM-6:00PM: Bib pickup at the start line.
5:50PM: Runners must be in the starting corral for pre-race announcements.
6:00PM: Ascent Race start
8:00PM: Summit cutoff
Saturday, May 10
6:30AM | 50K Start
7:30AM | Big Cat Start
9:00AM-2:00PM | Aid stations open along the course
6:00PM | Course closes
Bib Pickup
Bib pick-up is available Friday evening at the Issaquah Community Center. Participants can pick up race packets, confirm registration, and review course maps and aid station details.
Drop Bags
Drop bags are allowed for all distances. Bags can be dropped off at the Issaquah Community Center before the race start. Bags left behind will be returned to the finish line after the race.
Crew & Pacers
The race allows crew and pacers for 50K runners.
Visitors are welcome to cheer from designated spectator areas.
All crew must follow race safety instructions and course guidelines to ensure runner safety.
Volunteers
Volunteers are the backbone of Tiger Claw. They help make this race a world-class event. To volunteer, visit https://runtigerclaw.com/volunteer
Swag & Medals
All participants receive a finisher medal and a tech t-shirt. Top finishers earn additional prizes from race sponsors, and all runners can enjoy the post-race celebration and refreshments.
Getting There
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport is approximately 25 miles from Issaquah, WA.
Driving Directions
Passes & Permits
No passes or permits required.
Parking
Parking is available at the Issaquah Community Center and nearby streets. Participants are encouraged to carpool where possible. Crew and visitors must park in designated areas.
Lodging
Nearby hotels include:
Courtyard by Marriott Seattle East/Issaquah
Hilton Garden Inn Seattle East/Issaquah
Local Airbnb options are also available in Issaquah, WA
Requirements
Tiger Claw is extremely challenging and requires previous trail running or ultrarunning experience. Runners must be comfortable navigating technical trails and sustaining long climbs and descents. This race is not recommended for beginners.
Qualifying Races
Runners should have experience completing at least one trail race of 25K or longer prior to registering for Tiger Claw to ensure safety and success.
Mandatory Gear
Water reservoir or bottles for 1L minimum
Trail running shoes suitable for technical terrain
Weather-appropriate clothing including rain shell
Headlamp with extra batteries
Emergency blanket or foil survival sheet
Basic first aid supplies
Policies
Cancelations & Deferrals
Registrations are non-refundable. Deferrals to the following year may be allowed if requested at least 60 days before the race.
Race Policies
Charity & Beneficiary
Tiger Claw supports local trail stewardship and conservation efforts in the Issaquah Alps. A portion of proceeds goes to the Issaquah Alps Trail Club. More information at https://www.issaquahalpstrails.org
Land Acknowledgement
We acknowledge that this event takes place on the original homelands of the Duwamish and Coast Salish people. We honor their enduring connection to this land and recognize the responsibility we have to protect and respect it.
About Ginger Runner
Race produced by Ginger Runner.
View all Ginger Runner races on Kåduka →
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