Hamster Endurance Runs
2-6M
Walla Trails
Aug 1, 2026
WashingtonRun strong, laugh often, and celebrate Trail Sisters in the heart of wine country.
Overview
The Walla Walla 6 Hour is more than a race. It is a joyful women's weekend getaway built around friendship, community, and the trails that connect us. Hosted at Bennington Lake in Walla Walla, Washington, this women’s only timed race is designed to highlight the spirit of Trail Sisters and to celebrate women in trail running.
Expect a welcoming community vibe, beautiful rolling trails, and plenty of camaraderie as you loop around Bennington Lake for up to six hours. Whether you are chasing the most miles, running for fun, or simply soaking up the scenery with new friends, this event is all about lifting each other up and enjoying the journey. Stick around for raffle prizes, post-race swag, and the warm spirit that makes Walla Walla a true destination race.
UTMB Index: falseTrail Sisters ApprovedCuplessVegan Friendly
View race results →
120 participant limitWaitlist available
Course
Elevation GainPer loop, 370ft
Elevation LossPer loop, 370ft
Max Altitude1,200ft
Cutoff Time6HR
The course follows the Whitetail Trail, a 5 mile outer loop around Bennington Lake. The route is mostly double track with some single track stretches that add a bit of variety. Each loop includes about 370ft of climbing, keeping things fun without being overwhelming. You will run through open views of the lake, shaded stretches of trail, and rolling terrain that keeps your legs engaged.
As the hours tick by, the challenge becomes equal parts physical and mental. Runners who complete all six hours will not only earn a Trail Sisters trucker hat but will also leave with a deeper sense of connection to the trails, to the community, and to themselves.
Cutoff Details
Aid Stations
There is one main aid station at the start/finish of each loop. It is stocked with trail runner favorites like chips, gels, and gummies, along with some fun extras such as peanut butter and pickle wraps. The aid station runs with food safety in mind, so all items are served individually instead of in big communal bowls.
Logistics
Schedule
Friday, April 11, 2025
5:00PM - 6:30PM | Packet and bib pick-up at Bennington Lake
Saturday, April 12, 2025
5:30AM - 6:45AM | Packet and bib pick-up
7:00AM | Race start
1:00PM | Race finish and Trail Sisters hat pickup
1:15PM | Post-race raffle and celebration
Bib Pickup
Bib pickup will be held at Bennington Lake on Friday evening and Saturday morning before the race. Please allow enough time to check in and be ready for the start.
Drop Bags
Runners may leave drop bags at the start/finish aid station. All bags must be collected by the end of race day. Any left behind will be donated.
Crew & Pacers
Pacers are not allowed on the course.
Friends, family, and spectators are welcome to cheer at the start and finish and along public trail sections, but they may not provide aid to runners outside of the official aid station.
Parking is limited, so carpooling is highly encouraged. Spectators who arrive with four or more in a carpool will receive an extra raffle ticket.
Volunteers
Volunteers are welcome and essential to the success of the race. Tasks may include timing support, aid station assistance, course setup, and finish line logistics. Sign up to volunteer by contacting wallagretchen@gmail.com. Volunteers receive gratitude, community connection, and entry into raffle drawings.
Swag & Medals
All participants receive Trail Sisters and Walla Trails swag and a raffle ticket for prizes. Runners who complete the full 6 hours receive a Trail Sisters trucker hat. Back this year, runners can also purchase a long-sleeve soft tech race shirt for $30.
Getting There
The closest airport is Walla Walla Regional Airport, located a short drive from Bennington Lake. Additional options include Tri-Cities Airport in Pasco, about 1 hour away, and Portland International Airport, about 4 hours away.
Driving Directions
Passes & Permits
No passes or permits required.
Parking
Parking is available at Bennington Lake, but space is limited. Carpooling is strongly encouraged. Restrooms are available at the main lot.
Lodging
Walla Walla offers a variety of lodging options, including hotels, inns, and vacation rentals. The race also partners with local wineries and businesses, making it a perfect weekend getaway destination.
Walla Walla, washington
Requirements
No prior race experience is required. This event is open to all women who are excited to take on the challenge of running or hiking for up to six hours.
Policies
Race Policies
Participants may request a 50 percent refund through January 31. No refunds will be issued on or after February 1. Transfers to other races are not available.
Charity & Beneficiary
Proceeds from the Walla Walla 6 Hour support Trail Sisters, a platform dedicated to empowering women in trail running through education, inspiration, and community. Learn more at https://trailsisters.net.
Land Acknowledgement
Walla Trails and Community acknowledges that the event takes place on the traditional lands of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. We encourage participants to learn more about the history of this land and consider visiting the Tamástslikt Cultural Institute or making a donation in support. Walla Trails is a proud member of the Institute and honors its mission to educate and uplift Indigenous voices.
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