Run all night under the stars at a magical Cle Elum guest ranch
Overview
The Twilight 12 Hour is trail running with a twist — a full night of miles, music, laughter, and mountain ranch vibes. For twelve hours straight, from 7:00PM to 7:00AM, runners loop through hills, ravines, and creek crossings while soaking up the unique magic of running through the night.
Now in its 10th year, this event has grown into a true trail family tradition. Whether you’re chasing distance goals, training for your next big ultra, trying night running for the first time, or just looking for a one-of-a-kind weekend escape, Twilight 12 Hour is an experience you’ll never forget. The community aid station, on-course encouragement, and legendary Sunday breakfast make it feel more like a party than a race.
Course
The Twilight 12 Hour course is a 2.3 mile loop carved into the hillside above Flying Horseshoe Ranch. It’s a stout little loop with plenty of variety: winding singletrack, short ravines, a creek crossing, and a gravel road descent that sets you up for a punchy climb back to the start. The rhythm of night running turns it into something special — glowing headlamps snaking across the hills, the quiet crunch of dirt, and a finish line that’s always just around the corner.
Each lap has about 350ft of climbing, and over 12 hours those little climbs stack up fast. Runners spread out quickly, creating a calm and safe flow while still feeling part of the same adventure.
Aid Stations
The Twilight 12 Hour aid station is as much a celebration as it is support. Runners bring their favorite foods to share, creating a one-of-a-kind buffet that ranges from Oreos to homemade specialties. Volunteers keep things running smoothly, dishing out hot coffee, treats, and encouragement deep into the night.
Logistics
Schedule
Saturday, April 25, 2026
5:00PM | Check-in opens at the ranch house
6:30PM | Pre-race briefing at the ranch house
6:45PM | Walk to the start area
7:00PM | Race begins
Sunday, April 26, 2026
7:00AM | Race ends
7:30AM | Breakfast celebration at the cookhouse
Bib Pickup
Bib pickup takes place in front of the ranch house starting at 5:00PM on race day. Runners are welcome to arrive earlier in the afternoon to set up tents or cabins, but check-in officially begins at 5:00PM.
Drop Bags
Drop bags can be placed near the start/finish area at Flying Horseshoe Ranch. Runners are responsible for collecting their own bags after the event. Any left behind will be stored by the race director for later pickup.
Crew & Pacers
Crew, pacers, and visitors are welcome at Twilight 12 Hour. All visitors must sign a waiver. Runners are asked to limit support to a partner, friend, or close family member to maintain the intimate feel of the event.
Volunteers
Volunteers are the heart of Twilight 12 Hour, helping manage the community aid station, timing, setup, and teardown. To sign up, contact the race director at wallagretchen@gmail.com. Volunteers keep the ranch energy high all night long.
Swag & Medals
This is a no-frills, community-driven race. Instead of swag and medals, runners are rewarded with night miles, camaraderie, and a big celebratory breakfast on Sunday morning.
Getting There
Flying Horseshoe Ranch is a 90 minute drive from the Seattle area on I-90. The ranch offers free tent and car camping for runners and visitors. Half-price cabins are available on-site.
Driving Directions
Passes & Permits
No passes or permits required.
Parking
Parking is available at Flying Horseshoe Ranch. Volunteers will direct cars to designated areas to ensure plenty of space for campers, visitors, and race activities.
Lodging
Camping is free at Flying Horseshoe Ranch.
Half-price cabins are available for rent by calling Penny Blackburn at (509) 674-2366.
Additional lodging options can be found in Cle Elum, which is less than a 10 minute drive from the ranch.
Requirements
There are no formal requirements to enter the Twilight 12 Hour. This is a friendly and inclusive race designed for runners of all backgrounds. However, participants should be comfortable running on trails at night with a headlamp and should prepare accordingly.
Mandatory Gear
All runners must bring a working headlamp or handheld light, with extra batteries or backup lights. Staying visible and safe on the course is essential.
Policies
Cancelations & Deferrals
Race Policies
There are no refunds and no deferrals for this event. If the race is cancelled, part of the proceeds will be donated to Flying Horseshoe Ranch, and priority registration will be offered for the following year.
Dog Policy
Dogs are welcome at the ranch and on the course. Owners must keep dogs under control at all times and be respectful of other runners, livestock, and the property.
Kid & Youth Policy
Kids are welcome to attend with a parent or guardian. This is not a family reunion-style gathering, but children may join if coordinated ahead of time with the race director. A waiver will need to be signed. There is no official kids’ race offered at this event.
Land Acknowledgement
Twilight 12 Hour takes place on the ancestral lands of the Yakama Nation and surrounding Indigenous peoples. We encourage all participants to acknowledge the history of this land and its original stewards.
About Walla Trails

Founded by ultrarunner and race director Gretchen Walla, Walla Trails & Community is built on the belief that trail running is about more than just miles—it’s about belonging, giving back, and celebrating the joy of moving through the Pacific Northwest’s wild places together.
After years of racing ultras herself and working with respected organizations like Rainshadow Running and Northwest Trail Runs, Gretchen launched her own company in 2019. With 17 years of nonprofit experience behind her, she’s woven community, inclusivity, and generosity into every event. From offering welcoming spaces for new runners to creating competitive incentives for seasoned athletes, each race is designed with intention.
Walla Trails & Community also reflects Gretchen’s commitment to equity and access on the trails. Events like the Walla Walla 6 Hour, Twilight 12 Hour, Hamster Endurance Runs, and The Golden 6 Hour offer something for everyone—whether you’re chasing your first buckle, looking for a fun weekend getaway, or testing your endurance overnight under the stars.
Even in challenging times, Walla Trails & Community has thrived thanks to strong local partnerships, including Pacific Multisports, who helped Gretchen pivot to virtual and hybrid races when needed. The result: a race organization that’s as much about building lasting connections as it is about finish lines.
Enjoy the journey—come run with Walla Trails & Community.

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


