Early season alpine running at it’s finest.
Weekend Rendezvous: 12 Mile, 26 Mile and 40 Miler
The Ross Lake Rally kicks off the early mountain running season! While much of the Cascades are still deeply blanketed in snow, this south facing trail catches enough sun to melt out early and give way to some early season mountain views.
Get the detailed itinerary, maps, .gpx files, route descriptions & more in the course packet:
2024 TRIP DATES:
JUNE 28TH-30TH
There was not a detail forgotten by the Aspire team on our trip - from the chips and cold drinks at the car after a long day on the trail to massage and chairs waiting for us at camp. The meals were delicious - beyond outstanding.
-TRICIA & HAILEY, IDAHO
We can hardly wait to plan the next adventure with Aspire!
The early runner gets the big views!
Here's how Aspire unlocks the early season North Cascades:
Aspire coordinates all camping reservations, backcountry permits, shuttles and meals to guarantee you an immersive trail running experience. All you have to bring is your running kit and your fitness.
Accommodations: Our basecamp will be staged out of the Colonial Creek campground inside the North Cascades National Park. Aspire will provide lively camp amenities for a remote but comfortable “glamp” style experience. Runners will need to provide 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're happy to accomadate your dietary needs!
Shuttles: This trip begins and ends at the Colonial Creek Campground. Aspire will coordinate a shuttle between Bellingham WA and Burlington, WA, & Colonial Creek Campground. Runners can choose to meet us in camp or jump on the shuttle.
Guide Team: The Aspire team is comprised of welcoming expert guides that provide a safety net, energizing camaraderie, area information, logistical support and meals.
RUN DAY ITINERARY
| 6:00 AM | Coffee & Breakfast: French Toast |
| 7:00 AM | Shuttles Depart for Ross Lake |
| 8:00 AM | Runners meet the boat taxi and head up lake for drop offs at the base of Desolation Peak (26 & 40 mi.) or Lighting Creek (25k). Runners will enjoy views of the North Cascades as they run back to Highway 20 or Colonial Creek. Avg. run time 4-9 hrs. |
| ~3-6 PM | Runners shuttle back to Colonial Creek for Aspire's signature aprés- appetizers, drinks, and a delicious evening meal. |
View all the ways we support your adventure.
Get the course packet:
Cost
Early Bird Registration: $750
Ends December 12th
Regular Registration: $850
Ends April 30th
Late Registration: $950
Closes May 28th
*Payment plans are available for every trip. Get the info on how to set one up today.
Trip Insurance
Every year we have at least one runner who due to injury, illness, or personal/familial circumstances can not participate in their registered trip. While registrations can be transferred, Aspire does not issue refunds. See our FAQs. We strongly encourage each runner to purchase 3rd party trip insurance that will reimburse the cost of registration in the event that you are unable to participate in the event.
