Copper, Excelsior, and Ptarmigan: Experience 3 of the North Cascades most spectacular and runnable alpine trails.
Rendezvous: 8-34 Miles, 4 Days
The North Fork of the Nooksack River runs wild with glacial snowmelt from the snowfields of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan. Over millennia, immense volcanic and glacial forces have sculpted the surrounding landscape into some of the most pristine high country scenery on the planet. Over three days we’ll run a trio of ridgelines that will leave runners breathless, both from the terrain and the beauty of the North Cascades. With daily runs between 7-30 miles, there are trails to match your motivation and ability.
EACH DAY OF THIS RENDEZVOUS STYLE TRIP OFFERS ROUTES FOR RUNNERS OF ALL ABILITIES.
ASPIRE OPERATES SHUTTLES TO THE TRAILHEAD AND FINISH AID STATIONS FOR ALL ROUTES.
Get the detailed itinerary, maps, .gpx files, route descriptions & more in the course packet:
2025 TRIP DATES:
SEPTEMBER 11TH-14Th
Aspire Adventures picks the most scenic and beautiful landscapes! The trips are so much fun, they have amazing guides and clients. I felt such great camaraderie with all of the other runners and there was so much support and encouragement from everyone.
-WENDY, BOZEMAN
Expansive ridgelines await!
Here's how Aspire unlocks the zone:
Accommodations: Our basecamp will be at a drive in campground along the shores of the Nooksack River. Aspire will provide lively camp amenities for a remote but comfortable “glamp” style experience. Runners will need to bring or rent a personal tent, sleeping bag, pad, etc.
Meals: We get it! Nutritious food fuels your adventure. We put care and whole foods into all our meals. Aspire bookends each day with celebratory breakfasts & dinners and provides nutritious options for fuel on trail as well. We are happy to accommodate your dietary needs.
Shuttles: This trip begins and ends at the Excelsior Group Campground. Aspire will provide an optional round trip shuttle from Bellingham to our basecamp on Thursday afternoon and Sunday evening.
Guide Team: The Aspire team is comprised of welcoming expert guides that provide a safety net, energizing camaraderie, area information, logistical support and meals.
SAMPLE RUN DAY ITINERARY
| 6:00 AM | Coffee & Breakfast: French Toast |
| 7:00 AM | Shuttles Depart for Yellow Aster Butte TH |
| 8:00 AM | Arrive at Yellow Aster Butte TH. Runners head out for 8, 14, or 20 miles over Yellow Aster Butter. Avg. run time 3-7 hours. |
| 1-4 PM | Runners finish, enjoy the finish aid station and shuttle back to the basecamp. |
| 4:00 PM | Appetizers, drinks and conversation commence at camp. |
| 6:30 PM | Dinner: Sierra Bowls |
View all the ways Aspire supports your adventure.
Get the course packet:
Cost
Early Bird Registration: $1500.
Ends January 31st
Regular Registration: $1600.
Ends June 30th
Late Registration: $1700.
Closes September 7th
*Payment plans are available for every trip. Get the info on how to set one up today.