Come celebrate the 36th annual running of the Sunflower Relay and Trail Marathon! This is an incredible opportunity to run through some of the most spectacular fields of wildflowers in the Methow Valley. The trail run is marathon plus length, running from the town of Mazama to Twisp on beautiful trails through carpeted meadows of sunflowers.  Run either as an individual or form a team of 2-5 members.

The Course

This unique course begins at 1900 feet elevation in Mazama and includes deer trails, cow paths, bike routes and paved roads. Stunning views of the Methow River, North Cascades and Chelan Sawtooths abound from flower carpeted meadows and fields. At two points racers climb to 2600 feet and drop quickly to the finish at about 1600 feet in Twisp. This course traverses private property that owners generously allow use for this one day only. Please do not pre-run the course prior to or after the event. Because of the presence of livestock, dogs are not allowed to accompany their humans during the race. No dogs at start or finish lines, or on the course please.

Relay Leg Descriptions:
Leg 1 – 1.8 miles, easy – would be good for younger or beginner runner
Leg 2 – 5.7 miles, easy – flat
Leg 3 – 6.0 miles, moderate w/ hills
Leg 4 – 6.6 miles, moderate w/ a steep climb
Leg 5 – 6.8 difficult – strong runner required

The course is a marathon-plus length.  Expect breathtaking scenery and some sustained climbs and descents. Total length is close to 27 miles.

NEW A Half Marathon option will begin at Sun Mountain trails and end at the same Twisp finish line as other event options. The course is moderate in difficulty with some sustained climbs and descents. Total length is close to 14 miles.

Exchange and Aid Stations
There are aid stations (with water, sport drink and Hammer gel) at all four exchange points, as well as at mile 24.5. Runners should bring any additional fuel/replacement tablets they may need.

Maps: We do not provide detailed maps and elevation profiles to respect the privacy of the landowners who allow one-day access through their property to make this event possible.  There are two significant climbs just after aid stations 3 and 4, and a significant descent at the end of the course.

Start Times:

Relay & Marathon     8:30am – Mazama Corral Trailhead

1/2 Marathon           10:00am – Chickadee Trailhead

Awards                   1:00pm – Finish-line in Twisp

The Basics: 

• A marathon participant runs the entire course. Marathon participants are expected to run the majority of course, not walk or hike.  Out of respect for our volunteers and private landowners, marathon runners and teams must be able to complete the entire course in 6 hours – by 2:30pm.
• Half Marathon participants are expected to be able to finish their ~14 mile course in 4.5 hours or less – by 2:30pm.
• A team must have 2-5 people.

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DATE: Saturday, May 7, 8:30am LOCATION: Mazama to Twisp CONTACT: Methow Trails, 509.996.3287, info@methowtrails.org