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Tunnel Light Marathon & Half

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

PR FriendlyBQ Relevant

Atmosphere

Well Organized

Course

ShadedFast Flat

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

Directions

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

26.2M

Course Map

2 other maps for this race

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 & details6/15

4 timing sources · 13 photos

National draw0/10

no finisher data yet

Front-pack speed0/5

no winner time yet

Weather5/10

typical high 66°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (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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