2026 Huckleberry Half Marathon

Now in its ninth edition, the Huckleberry Half Marathon draws around 115 runners each year, with participants traveling from roughly 14 states to the tiny town of Welches, Oregon. About twelve percent of the field are repeat visitors, lured back by the race's unpretentious charm and the promise of a cool, forested course through the foothills of Mount Hood. The event has grown steadily since 2013, but remains a true hidden gem—no big crowds, no flashy expo, just runners and the quiet beauty of the Pacific Northwest woods.

The race-day atmosphere is low-key and community-driven, with a strong local feel. The course itself winds through national forest land, likely on quiet roads shaded by towering pines, with the kind of solitude that makes every step feel personal. The elevation profile (visible on the event website) suggests a rolling route, but the exact terrain remains understated. Finishers earn a medal featuring the iconic Bigfoot logo, but the real reward is the crisp mountain air and the satisfaction of a well-run, no-frills race.

After the 2025 edition, the Huckleberry Half is taking a break in 2026, with future plans to be announced. For those seeking a small-scale, authentic half marathon experience away from the big-city road-show, this is a race worth watching for—and a perfect excuse to explore Oregon's Cascade Range.