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Popsicle Marathon

The Popsicle Marathon offers a flat, fast out-and-back on a paved trail, perfect for PRs.

Race Date

Jul 3, 2026

Location

Bothell, WA

Quick facts

Date
Friday, July 3, 2026
Location
Bothell, Washington
Distance
Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 50K, 26.2M
Course
Out & Back
Terrain
Road
USATF certified
Not listed

Highlights

Good For

PR Friendly

Atmosphere

Local CommunityWell Supported

Course

Fast FlatWell Marked

The Experience

The Popsicle Marathon, a popular fixture in Bothell, WA, is part of the Lil Firecracker Triple and takes place on July 3rd, 2026. Runners will experience a flat, fast course primarily on the paved Sammamish River Trail.

The out-and-back route begins at Bothell Landing Park, heading south along the scenic river trail. While largely flat with minimal elevation change, the course does include a notable steep downhill section about a mile in, followed by a bridge crossing. Runners will pass through Wilmot Gateway Park, which offers amenities like restrooms and water.

This event is known for its potential to yield personal bests, making it a target for serious runners. The race is also part of a larger series, attracting participants looking to complete multiple events. The typical race-day weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 56-76°F.

Race-provided description

Popsicle Marathon, Half Marathon and 50K (Day 1 of the Lil Firecracker Triple) Friday July 3, 2026 Course: Sammamish River Trail from Bothell Landing Start at the Bothell Landing Park (Map link). Head over the new bridge and turn left heading south on the Sammamish River Trail for 6.55 miles to Dr Call's bench. Just after one mile on the trail you will go down a steep hill, veer right to go over a bridge to continue on the Sammamish River Trail. (If you end up at the UW Bothell campus then you get bonus mileage.) You know you are on the correct trail as it will take you under highway 405, just keep going on the trail. At about 2.5 miles the trail takes you through the Wilmot Gateway Park where there is a bathroom and water filling station. Use it if needed and remember this for the way bac

Logistics

Race Day

Friday, July 3, 2026

Start Time

TBA

Start Location

Bothell, WA

Directions

Course Info

Course Type

Out & Back

Terrain

road

Scenery

Lake River

Surface

Paved

Difficulty

Ultra-Flat

Net Drop/km

0 m (Flat)

Separation

0.0%

Also Offers

50K26.2M

Quality Score

Methodology
Heritage0/20

first year

Size0/15

no finisher counts yet

Momentum3/5

small race — neutral

Loyalty0/20

needs a few years of results

Course & details3/15

3 timing sources

National draw0/10

no finisher data yet

Front-pack speed0/5

no winner time yet

Weather0/10

typical high 76°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (Low)

56°

Afternoon (High)

76°

Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively

0.0"

Precipitation

8 mph

Wind

68%

Humidity

Frequently asked

When is the Popsicle Marathon?

The Popsicle Marathon is held on Friday, July 3, 2026.

Where does the Popsicle Marathon take place?

It takes place in Bothell, Washington.

What distances does the Popsicle Marathon offer?

The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 50K, 26.2M.

Is the Popsicle Marathon course flat and good for a PR?

The Popsicle Marathon is a ultra-flat, out & back course.

HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.

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