In 3 days · Sat, Sep 12, 2026
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Saturday, September 12th, 2026
Homestead Valley Trailhead, North Bend WA
Marathon · Half
50–66°F · some rain risk
See last 10 years
On this date: rain 3 of the last 10 years
2025
53–62°F
dry
2024
51–59°F
rain
2023
50–61°F
dry
2022
56–71°F
dry
2021
51–58°F
rain
2020
48–73°F
dry
2019
48–70°F
dry
2018
47–56°F
rain
2017
52–70°F
dry
2016
43–66°F
dry
Best months to race in Washington →
Race-day forecast · Saturday, Sep 12
Cloudy · 46–68°F
Saturday, Sep 12starts near 46°F · 45% chance of rain · wind up to 7 mph
About this race
Chasing a Boston Qualifier?
- Success Rate: 1 in 4 Runners BQ here
- Course Ranking: Ranked the #5 Fastest Boston Qualifier Course in the United States by FindMyMarathon
- Designed For: PRs and Boston Qualifiers.
- Description: Cascade Express is one of the nation’s fastest downhill marathons—engineered for runners chasing a personal best or a Boston Qualifier on a proven, high-performing course.
DOWNHILL SUPER SERIES:
- Series Info: Part of the Downhill Super Series—featuring some of the fastest Boston Qualifier courses in the United States.
COURSE:
- Pacing Strategy: A controlled early pace followed by sustained downhill creates ideal conditions for negative splits and strong finishes.
- Pacers: Available to help you stay on target and execute your race plan.
- Course Profile: The point-to-point course follows the Palouse to Cascades Trail with a smooth, consistent downhill profile ideal for sustained pacing and fast finishes.
- Downhill Details: Total downhill: 1,414 ft: Net downhill: 1,247 ft: No Boston Marathon time penalty.
WHY RUNNERS CHOOSE CASCADE EXPRESS:
- Smooth Terrain: Smooth, runnable downhill (no steep drops)
- Proven Course: Proven Boston Qualifier course
- Certification: USATF-certified & accurately measured
- Scenic Views: Scenic Cascade views + iconic Snoqualmie Tunnel section
- Support: Fully supported (aid stations, shuttles, drop bags)
What Our Runners Say:
- Testimonial: “Cascade express marathon 2025- This race was a gem. The course had some of the most breathtaking views, quiet, scenic, and fast...I am going to Boston because of this marathon” -- Biswanath
- Testimonial: “Smooth packet pickup, nice race shirt medal and bag, good weather, aid stations every 2 miles! Qualified for Boston at Cascade!” Courtney
- Testimonial: “You can tell they care about your experience and put in the effort to make sure you have a great time!” - Justin
EXPERIENCE:
- Race Type: A professionally produced, runner-focused race.
- Logistics: Seamless transportation logistics and reliable on-course support.
- Environment: Fast, fair racing environment.
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
- Timing: Chip timing with live results & splits
- Finisher Perks: Finisher medal + technical race shirt
- Support: Fully stocked aid stations
- Transportation: Shuttle transportation from finish to start
- Parking: Ample parking near the race start
- Drop Bag: Drop bag service
- Medical Support: Experienced race management & medical support
CERTIFICATION:
- Marathon: USATF WA25021RMB
- Half Marathon: USATF WA25023RMB
Race Details & Logistics:
- Information: Full course details, schedules, packet pickup information, transportation logistics, and FAQs are available.
- Website: Visit the official race website for full race details, course maps, and race weekend information: CASCADE EXPRESS MARATHON
Register now and lock in your BQ attempt.
Course map
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Live prices near the start line, Sep 11 – 13, 2026.
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