Cascade Express Marathon & Half Marathon

Sat, Sep 12, 2026, 3:00 AM PDT

Location: Homestead Valley Trailhead, Milwaukee Rd, North Bend, WA 98045
Type: Run

Finish signup on the organizer site (check fees and dates there).

Race feel

Chase a Boston Qualifying time or a personal record on this incredibly fast, scenic downhill course through the Cascade Mountains.

Scenic
Competitive

The Cascade Express Marathon & Half Marathon offers an exceptional experience for runners seeking speed and stunning natural beauty. Known as one of the nation's fastest Boston Qualifiers, this point-to-point course glides along the scenic Palouse to Cascades Trail. Runners will enjoy a gradual net downhill on a gravel surface, with breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains and Keechelus Lake. The half marathon also features a unique run through the famous Snoqualmie Tunnel, making it a memorable race for setting a personal best or achieving a BQ.

What to expect

Experience a fast, downhill course on a gravel trail.
Enjoy stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and Keechelus Lake.
Receive a custom medal, tech shirt, and convenient drop bag service.

From the organizer

Chasing a Boston Qualifier?

1 in 4 Runners BQ here

Ranked the #5 Fastest Boston Qualifier Course in the United States by FindMyMarathon

Designed for PRs. Built for Boston Qualifiers.

Cascade Express is one of the nation’s fastest downhill marathons—engineered for runners chasing a personal best or a Boston Qualifier on a proven, high-performing course.

DOWNHILL SUPER SERIES:

Part of the Downhill Super Series —featuring some of the fastest Boston Qualifier courses in the United States.

COURSE:

A controlled early pace followed by sustained downhill creates ideal conditions for negative splits and strong finishes.

Pacers are available to help you stay on target and execute your race plan.

The point-to-point course follows the Palouse to Cascades Trail with a smooth, consistent downhill profile ideal for sustained pacing and fast finishes.

Total downhill: 1,414 ft Net downhill: 1,247 ft No Boston Marathon time penalty WHY RUNNERS CHOOSE CASCADE EXPRESS:

✔️ Smooth, runnable downhill (no steep drops) ✔️ Proven Boston Qualifier course ✔️ USATF-certified & accurately measured ✔️ Scenic Cascade views + iconic Snoqualmie Tunnel section ✔️ Fully supported (aid stations, shuttles, drop bags)

What Our Runners Say

“Cascade express marathon 2025- This race was a gem. The course had some of the most breathtaking views, quiet, scenic, and fast. Big shoutout to Jess and Sabrina for being super responsive with my pre-race questions. Aid stations were spot-on. Volunteers held blue-striped cups for water, which made it easy to pick. Gatorade was available too, but I appreciated the clarity, no guessing, no fumbling...oh the best part - I am going to Boston because of this marathon” -- Biswanath

“Smooth packet pickup, nice race shirt medal and bag, good weather, aid stations every 2 miles! Qualified for Boston at Cascade! The people working this event were very kind! Thanks for having me in your great state of Washington!” Courtney