Two 5K’s and a 10K Happening this Saturday!

The groundhog saw his shadow and Winter has come back for round two! But that isn’t going to stop the running warriors this Saturday from strapping those running shoes on and hitting the trails. That’s right, this weekend (February 11) features two local 5K races and one 10K! The big question is then; which race(s) are you running this Saturday?

Fragrance Lake Half/10k 

Run past the serene Fragrance Lake, and just when you think it can’t get any better, you’ll run through fields of sword fern, soaking in all the hues of green on the Rock Trail. You’ll run past towering rock faces and rocks as big as houses through a magical green forest above Lost Lake. You might even see a forest fairy or two, it’s that magical.

The course also traverses the scenic and technical Ridge Trail with views of the Cascade Mountains. This is no ordinary Half Marathon.  It’s tough with 3,300 feet of vert and made up of almost entirely single-track trails (except for at the start, which helps to spread people out before they hit the single track).  We’ll have our usual post race festivities: a post race meal, local brews, and an awards ceremony!

Start/Check In: Lost Lake Parking Area
Just 2/10 of a mile south (on Chuckanut Drive) of the finish and across the street

7:30 am – 8:45 am: Check in/Day of Race Registration/Bib Pickup
Check in at the Lost Lake Parking Area.  All runners must check in!
8:30 am: Free Kid’s Race, 1/2 mile
Arrive early to register your child
9:00 am: Half Marathon & 10k Start (same start time & location)
Start at Lost Lake Parking Area. Race will finish at the South Day Use Area by the Bandshell.

Finish line/Parking: South Day Use Area (Bandshell)
Larrabee State Park
245 Chuckanut Drive
Bellingham, WA 98229

GBRC Two for the Road 5K Run/Walk

The race will start and finish near the fish hatchery. After a short loop to the north to spread the crowd out, you will head west on the Waterline Trail. Then turn south (left) on the trail that takes you to Lakeway Dr. where you will turn right and enter Bayview Cemetery. Follow roads through the cemetery and reconnect and turn right on the Waterline Trail. Head east (staying left if you meet oncoming runners) then turn left and cross the wood footbridge. After crossing the bridge, turn left and then sharp right up a short but steep hill and turn right again at the top. This trail will lead you across the old stone bridge and up to the parking area. From here you will cross the road and go up the trail by the registration shelter and turn left at the top onto the road and follow this loop back to the start/finish area.

For 2017, due to construction on the Waterline Trail, the course will make a detour in the first mile. The course will now follow the road out to Lakeway Dr. and turn right on the sidewalk until it joins the normal course by the cemetery.

8:45 am – 9:45 am: Check in
Check in at the large shelter near the start
10:00 am: Race Starts
Start near the fish hatchery. The race will run in a loop and finish back at the start.

Max Higbee Center’s “Hearty Party” 5k

Grab a pal, furry friend, or special someone and run your heart out at Max Higbee Center’s “Hearty Party” 5k! This community event benefits Max Higbee Center, a non-profit organization providing recreational services to teens and adults living with developmental disabilities. Support a great cause and join the party in our 4th annual 5k with beautiful views of Bellingham Bay and Zuanich Park. Festive attire is not required, but highly encouraged!  Dress as your favorite TV/Movie couple or wear your fanciest date night outfit. Options are endless as you run your heart out for a great cause. There will also be a costume station by donation at the event if you need some inspiration.

Registration and coffee will be located at Max Higbee Center. From there you will be directed to the starting line, which is down the street on Roeder. From the starting line, racers will head down Roeder and head left on Coho Way towards Zuanich Point Park.  Racers will then loop around on the trail and head back to MHC. After the race, the fun will continue with a hearty after-party at Boundary Bay Brewery.

8:00 am – 9:30 am: Registration and Packet Pick-Up
Located at Max Higbee Center
10:00 am: Race Starts
Located on Roeder