

Tunnel Light Marathon & Half
Run a fast, downhill marathon through a tunnel at Snoqualmie Pass.
Race Date
Sep 13, 2026
Location
Snoqualmie Pass, WA
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, September 13, 2026
- Location
- Snoqualmie Pass, Washington
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 26.2M
- Course
- Point to Point
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Tunnel Light Marathon & Half offers a unique and rapid race experience. Runners descend through a historic, mile-long tunnel before embarking on a course designed for personal bests.
This point-to-point race is celebrated for its potential to deliver fast times, with many participants aiming to qualify for the Boston Marathon. The course leverages the natural downhill grade from the tunnel exit, offering a swift journey through the Washington landscape.
While specific historical figures like field size and repeat runner rates are not available, the race is noted for its steady field trend and its appeal to those seeking a PR-friendly event. The typical race-day weather is mild, adding to the favorable conditions for a strong performance.
Race-provided description
Tunnel Marathon & Half Marathon-Fast. Scenic. Boston Built. Iconic. Unforgettable. The Tunnel Marathons deliver one of the fastest marathon & half marathon experiences in the country. With a steady downhill grade and low starting elevation, this course is engineered for speed — an ideal opportunity to set a Personal Record, earn a Boston Qualification (marathon), or run your first race. From the moment you enter the historic Snoqualmie Tunnel to the final miles surrounded by mountain views, waterfalls, and crisp Washington air, the Tunnel Marathons are as breathtaking as they are fast. The Tunnel Marathon & Half Marathon offers one of the fastest and most unique race experiences in the Pacific Northwest. 2026 Course Update Due to severe storm damage, the 2026 event will follow an alternate, fully permitted route. The 2026 course will: -Remain fast and scenic -Features approximately 1,000 feet of net elevation drop (marathon & Half) -USATF-certified, and the marathon is a Boston Qualifier While the finish differs from the traditional course, the spirit of the Tunnel Marathons remains unchanged — a smooth downhill rail trail, stunning Pacific Northwest scenery, and the unforgettable run through the Snoqualmie Tunnel. A Proven Boston Qualifier (Marathon) The original marathon course ranked in the Top 10 nationwide for Boston Qualifiers (Runner’s World and RaceRaves) and has helped more than 42% of participants earn a BQ. In 2026, expect the same professional organization, safety standards, and fast course design that define the Tunnel experience. Come run fast. Come run iconic. Come find your light at the end of the tunnel. We offer three races; choose your day: Light at the End of the Tunnel Marathon & Half – June 7, 2026 Tunnel Vision Marathon & Half – August 9, 2026 Tunnel Light Marathon & Half – September 13, 2026 Built for Speed: -Approximately 1,000 feet of net downhill -Smooth, packed gravel surface (road or light trail shoes work well) Registration Includes: -Professional chip timing -Custom race bib -Finisher’s shirt and medal -Post-race food and festivities -Shuttle transportation back to Hyak Sno-Park Shuttle & Finish: After finishing at Garcia Trailhead, runners will enjoy a scenic one-mile walk down Forest Service Road 9020 to the shuttle buses. Shuttles return participants to Hyak for celebration and refreshments. What to Know: -Headlamps are required for the Snoqualmie Tunnel -Course surface is packed gravel -Aid stations every 2–3 miles with water, electrolytes, first aid, and Honey Stinger gels at select locations
Logistics
Race Day
Sunday, September 13, 2026
Start Time
8:30 AM
Giveaway
T-Shirt
Start Location
NF-906, Hyak Dr E, Snoqualmie Pass, WA, 98068
Course Info
Course Type
Point to Point
Terrain
road
Scenery
Mountain
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Course Map
2 other maps for this race
Quality Score
first year
no finisher counts yet
small race — neutral
needs a few years of results
4 timing sources · 13 photos
no finisher data yet
no winner time yet
typical high 66°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
50°
Afternoon (High)
66°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.0"
Precipitation
9 mph
Wind
78%
Humidity
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Tunnel Light Marathon & Half?
The Tunnel Light Marathon & Half is held on Sunday, September 13, 2026, starting at 8:30 AM.
Where does the Tunnel Light Marathon & Half take place?
It takes place in Snoqualmie Pass, Washington.
What distances does the Tunnel Light Marathon & Half offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 26.2M.
Is the Tunnel Light Marathon & Half course flat and good for a PR?
The Tunnel Light Marathon & Half is a ultra-flat, point to point course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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