King County is partnering with Seattle Running Company to bring a new trail running series to Cougar Mountain this summer. The unique agreement generates revenue for King County and provides hundreds of hours in volunteer trail maintenance at Cougar Mountain.

The moderate length of the runs is unique. Many organized trail runs in the northwest are “ultra runs,” or longer than a marathon. In most cases, the runs are 31 miles. The Cougar Mountain Trail Running Series will have four runs throughout the summer, starting at 5 miles and working up to 13 miles. Seattle Running Company hopes the shorter runs will provide an event that is more accessible to runners at a variety of levels.

Seattle Running Company has a track record of success. For the past three years it has organized a 50-mile trail running event that is the official championship event for USA Track and Field.

Trail running is growing in popularity in the Pacific Northwest. Many runners turn to trail running because of the all-over body workout, the natural beauty of the setting and because running on a trail has less impact on the body.

The agreement is expected to bring as much as $15,000 for King County Parks and 640 volunteer hours of trail maintenance at Cougar Mountain.

Sign Up at Active.com (external link) or print and fax/mail a Seattle Running Company form (external link).

Let the Seattle Running Company know if you're interested in a training program/clinic to prepare for the race(s). searunco@aol.com

For questions about the Cougar Mtn Trail Running Series Web page, please contact Jessie Israel, Public Affairs.

For questions about the Web site for the Parks and Recreation Division, please contact Mel Boupharath, webmaster.

Parks and Recreation Division

Updated: May 5, 2003

Related Information:

Seattle Running Company (external link)

Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park

Parks Business Plan

Volunteer on King County Trails