Iron Horse Half Marathon
The Iron Horse Half Marathon offers a scenic, predominantly downhill trail run through Washington's Cascade Mountains.
Race Date
Aug 30, 2026
Location
North Bend, WA
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, August 30, 2026
- Location
- North Bend, Washington
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 13.1 Miles
- Course
- Point to Point
- Terrain
- Trail
- USATF certified
- Yes
- Finishers on record
- 10,025
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Iron Horse Half Marathon, first run in 2016 and now in its 9th edition, has become a beloved event drawing participants from around 39 states. With a typical field size of about 2,500 finishers and a growing trend, it's a popular choice for runners seeking a scenic and fast race.
The course, historically a downhill trail run through the Cascade Mountains, offers stunning views and a predominantly gentle incline that aids in achieving personal bests. While recent events have necessitated a re-route, the spirit of a fast, scenic race remains. Runners often praise the well-maintained trails, forested sections, and the overall serene atmosphere, with aid stations strategically placed every 2-3 miles.
While spectator support might be minimal, the race excels in its production and organization, with many participants highlighting the smooth logistics, ample parking, and helpful volunteers. The finish line experience is frequently described as a highlight, leaving runners with a sense of accomplishment amidst the beautiful Pacific Northwest setting.
Race-provided description
IMPORTANT FOR 2026: Damage to the Iron Horse trail from the December floods mean that no events are being held there in 2026, including the Iron Horse Half. Our course has been re-routed to adjust to this. The new course is a modified out and back, point-to-point route. While it is no longer downhill for the first 10 miles, the incline is mild and limited to the first few miles. Race Website Check out our Bundle/Save VIRTUAL RACE INFO - We have 40 spots for virtual runners. Once they sell out there are no more available. You can run the distance all at once or break it up into chunks and run it on the date of your choosing. You will receive a shirt and medal that will be mailed after the in person race.
Logistics
Race Day
Sunday, August 30, 2026
Start Time
7:00 AM
Giveaway
Participant T-Shirt
Start Location
1711 Boalch Ave NW, North Bend, WA, 98045
Course Info
USATF CertifiedCourse Type
Point to Point
Terrain
trail
Scenery
Forest, Mountain
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
+14.46 m
Separation
56.1%
Also Offers
USATF Certified Course
WA23022RMB · Iron Horse Half
Net downhill course — fast finishing times are common. Point-to-point course layout.
Quality Score
Runner Favorite819 years running
~2,520 finishers a year
growing or steady
18% returning runners
USATF certified · 5 timing sources
runners from 39 states
winner 1:11:14
typical high 76°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
55°
Afternoon (High)
76°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.1"
Precipitation
5 mph
Wind
79%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 10,025 finishers actually crossed the line across 9 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
10,025
Median time
2:12:25
Latest turnout
1,389
States
48
Turnout by year
2017–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Iron Horse Half Marathon?
The Iron Horse Half Marathon is held on Sunday, August 30, 2026, starting at 7:00 AM.
Where does the Iron Horse Half Marathon take place?
It takes place in North Bend, Washington.
What distances does the Iron Horse Half Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 13.1 Miles.
Is the Iron Horse Half Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The Iron Horse Half Marathon is a ultra-flat, point to point course. The course is USATF-certified, so finish times can be used for qualifying.
How many people run the Iron Horse Half Marathon?
HalfRuns has finish records for 10,025 runners who have completed the Iron Horse Half Marathon.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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