Dark Divide’s Burley Mountain Fire Lookout:
The Ultimate Alpine Fun Run!
This run starts with a fun, fetching, and steep path through verdant forests and charming waterfalls that eventually takes you along a breathtaking (visually and physically) ascent all the way to the historic fire lookout atop Burley Mountain's summit. From this picturesque viewpoint generously peppered in wildflowers, you can take in a dazzling and dramatic 360 degree panorama of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, looking out across the Dark Divide to the south and up into Goat Rocks Wilderness and Mount Rainier National Park to the north. This run comes along with over 4,300 of climbing!
Running on the same day as the 50K race, you will have a leisurely (if you choose) 9 hours to finish the course, making it a great choice for someone looking to get their first taste of racing in the mountains. If you are looking to race your way up Burley Mountain, I can can only guess that it will hurt, but we wish you the best in your endeavors!
15 Mile Fun Run by the Numbers
15 Mile Fun Run Course Information
Here is an interactive map of the 14 Mile Fun Run course on Caltopo:
Click here to see course details, including vert & mileage:
Click here to see aid station details, crew access, and cutoffs:
Click here to download the course GPX file:
Key Times & Dates
Saturday, September 4, 2027 (Cispus Learning Center)
4:00 PM: Camping & bunkhouses open for runners and crew
Sunday, September 5, 2027 (Cispus Learning Center ~ Tower Rock Pavilion)
7:00-8:30 AM Runner check-in & race bib pick-up
8:45 AM: Race course briefing
9:00 AM: The Dark Divide 15 Mile Fun Run begins!
7:00 PM: Final finish line cut-off
9:00 PM: All runners must be out of their campsites or dorms.
U.S. Forest Service Notice
This event is granted use by a Special Use Permit through the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, U.S. Forest Service. In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.