The warm weather is returning, meaning that around the region, amazing people have organized events that give us fun ways to be active. Taking place on city streets, on trails and through scenic areas, the region’s fun run season is kicking off in full gear.
Whether you walk, run or race, there are a handful of great events that will get you out and active, reconnecting with the community and having a blast along beautiful courses. Check out these upcoming fun runs in and near Vancouver.
Walk/Run for the Animals in Vancouver
On May 5 at Esther Short Park, one of the region’s most popular races will take place. Said to bring in 1,200 walkers, 400 runners and over 800 dogs, this unique and family-friendly event is a perfect way to get out with your pooch. Offering a three mile walk and a timed 5k, this is a great leg stretcher. With a post-race beer tent to help celebrate a day out in the community, as well as helping to raise money for the humane society, this run and walk will get you excited for the upcoming summer race schedule, whether you have two legs or four.
Run to Remember in Washougal
On May 20, Washougal’s Run to Remember is a great way to help raise funds for numerous military organizations around the region. Having already raised over $15,000 in the first two years, 2018 is the 3rd year of this run and looks to be the best yet. With a half marathon, a 10k and a 5k, this run starts and ends at Reflection Plaza and is a great way to support a good cause and get outdoors.
Race to Remember in Vancouver
Continuing the theme of supporting the military, Vancouver will be holding their Race to Remember to celebrate and help military organizations on May 28. Offering a half marathon, a 10K and a 5K Route, this out and back course shows off the beauty of the Columbia River trail. The first Half Mile is the Honor Mile, where they line the pathway with the American Flags and pictures of fallen military heroes.
Foam Glow in Portland
On June 9, the city of Portland will be hosting a unique and fun event that shouldn’t be missed. Known as the Foam Glow run, this 5k run will having you walking and running through glowing foam and black lights, turning the event into more of a party than a workout. This night run is family-friendly and incredibly memorable.
Twilight Run
A few weeks after summer officially starts, Vancouver Lake will be hosting a race for those runners who aren’t morning people. Known as the Twilight Run, this race starts around 6:00 p.m. and works its way around Vancouver Lake. Offering a 5k, a 10k and a half marathon distance, the evening run will show off the beautiful sunset of the region.
24th Annual Lyle’s Myles 5k Run/Walk in Vancouver
Taking place at Esther Short Park, the 24th Annual Lyle’s Myles 5k is a unique and fun event. Created by Lyle Smith, this race is non-competitive in most regards. Anyone who beats Lyle is “disqualified,” so Lyle can continue to win his race. Don’t worry about beating Lyle though. Prizes are handed out for the fastest “disqualified” racers. This race isn’t about Lyle’s vanity though; all proceeds collected are split between three non-profit organizations working for a world without HIV/AIDS.
Ring of Fire in Amboy
Showing off Mount St. Helens and Mount Tum Tum, the Ring of Fire race in Amboy is a fantastic fundraiser for the volunteer firefighters of the community. Offering a 5k, a 10k and a free of charge “Logger Lap,” this event that takes place on July 15 is a fantastic way to support the smaller towns of the county. It is also a good way to chat and say thanks to the area’s first responders.
Bubble Run in Portland
Said to be like running through Willy Wonka’s Factory, the Portland Bubble Run needs to be added to your calendar. Taking place on July 21, 2018, this fun 5k will have you running through bubbles and foam as DJs play music and the course becomes a 3.1 mile long party. Nothing can describe the awesomeness you will experience on this run or walk.
Columbia River Sunset 5k and 10k in Vancouver
Taking place at Frenchman’s Bar on August 17, the Columbia River Sunset 5k and 10k is a can’t-miss race. Starting at 7:00 p.m., the race takes place near the Columbia River, giving you beautiful views as the last of the light vanishes to the west. After the run, enjoy a post-race party with Deschutes Brewery beers, music and more!
