On September 12, 2026, the Cascade Express Marathon & Half Marathon takes place in North Bend, Washington, starting at 7:00 AM from Homestead Valley Trailhead. The event offers both a full marathon distance of 26.2 miles and a half marathon option. Entry fees range from $119 to $176 depending on registration timing. North Bend provides convenient access to the Cascade region for runners traveling to the race. If you're competing in either distance, plan your accommodation in the area well ahead of race day to secure lodging near the trailhead start.
From the Race Organizer
Chasing a Boston Qualifier? 1 in 4 Runners BQ here Ranked the #5 Fastest Boston Qualifier Course in the United States by FindMyMarathon Designed for PRs. Built for Boston Qualifiers. 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: Part of the Downhill Super Series —featuring some of the fastest Boston Qualifier courses in the United States. COURSE: A controlled early pace followed by sustained downhill creates ideal conditions for negative splits and strong finishes. Pacers are available to help you stay on target and execute your race plan. The point-to-point course follows the Palouse to Cascades Trail with a smooth, consistent downhill profile ideal for sustained pacing and fast finishes. Total downhill: 1,414 ft Net downhill: 1,247 ft No Boston Marathon time penalty WHY RUNNERS CHOOSE CASCADE EXPRESS: ✔️ Smooth, runnable downhill (no steep drops) ✔️ Proven Boston Qualifier course ✔️ USATF-certified & accurately measured ✔️ Scenic Cascade views + iconic Snoqualmie Tunnel section ✔️ Fully supported (aid stations, shuttles, drop bags) What Our Runners Say “Cascade express marathon 2025- This race was a gem. The course had some of the most breathtaking views, quiet, scenic, and fast. Big shoutout to Jess and Sabrina for being super responsive with my pre-race questions. Aid stations were spot-on. Volunteers held blue-striped cups for water, which made it easy to pick. Gatorade was available too, but I appreciated the clarity, no guessing, no fumbling...oh the best part - I am going to Boston because of this marathon” -- Biswanath “Smooth packet pickup, nice race shirt medal and bag, good weather, aid stations every 2 miles! Qualified for Boston at Cascade! The people working this event were very kind! Thanks for having me in your great state of Washington!” Courtney “I have run many Run Super Series events over the past year and have had a great time at each one. They are all very well planned, coordinated, and executed. You can tell that they care about your experience and put in the effort to make sure you have a great time!” - Justin EXPERIENCE: A professionally produced, runner-focused race—from seamless transportation logistics to reliable on-course support and a fast, fair racing environment. WHAT’S INCLUDED: Chip timing with live results & splits Finisher medal + technical race shirt Fully stocked aid stations Ample parking near the race start Shuttle transportation from finish to start Drop bag service Experienced race management & medical support CERTIFICATION: Marathon (Boston Qualifier) – USATF WA25021RMB Half Marathon – USATF WA25023RMB Register now and lock in your BQ attempt. Race Details & Logistics: Full course details, schedules, packet pickup information, transportation logistics, and FAQs are provided below to help you plan your race weekend. Visit the official race website for full race details, course maps, and race weekend information: CASCAE EXPRESS MARATHON
Course & Travel Notes
At 446 feet of elevation, North Bend offers relatively modest altitude considerations that shouldn't significantly impact your pacing strategy. The race starts at 7:00 AM, just 19 minutes after the 6:41 AM sunrise, so you'll have early light to navigate the course. September weather in this area typically brings highs around 78°F and lows near 49°F, with about one-third of days experiencing measurable rain, so pack layers and be prepared for wet conditions. King County International Airport – Boeing Field (BFI) is located 24.1 miles from the venue, making it a convenient option for your travel logistics.
⛰️ 446 ft elevation☀️ Typically 70°F / 49°F · 36% chance of rain✈️ King County International Airport - Boeing Field (BFI) — 24.1 mi
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in North Bend, WA. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
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Cascade Express Marathon & Half Marathon 2026 — North Bend, WA
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for September 12.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to North Bend, WA.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is Cascade Express Marathon & Half Marathon 2026 — North Bend, WA?
Cascade Express Marathon & Half Marathon 2026 — North Bend, WA takes place on September 12, 2026. The race is held in North Bend, Washington.
Where is Cascade Express Marathon & Half Marathon 2026 — North Bend, WA held?
Cascade Express Marathon & Half Marathon 2026 — North Bend, WA is held at Homestead Valley Trailhead in North Bend, Washington.
Where can I find hotels near Cascade Express Marathon & Half Marathon 2026 — North Bend, WA?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in North Bend. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
