Yakima Skyline Rim 2020

The 50k is an out-and-back from Umtanum Creek Recreation Area along the Yakima Skyline Rim trail to its terminus at Buffalo Road and back, with numerous monster climbs and crazy descents in and out of creek valleys, and some ridge running (with spectacular views on a clear day!) thrown in for good measure. You’ll start by climbing nearly straight up, gaining 2100 feet in 2.2 miles. After that, you’ll roll along the ridgeline on an old jeep road for a few miles before plummeting down into the Roza Creek valley, where you’ll reach the first aid station, (at mile 8.0, beside the Yakima River; this aid station is mile 23 on the return). After a brief rolling respite in the Roza Creek area, you’ll toil up again - this time 1900 feet in just over two miles, back to high ridge running. Two short drops and climbs later (both of which will catch you off-guard), you’ll steamroll down into the Buffalo Road aid station (mile 15.5), where you’ll have both crew and drop bag access, should you so desire. Don’t get too cozy, though - because then comes the joy of retracing your steps, all the way back to the start.