Cutthroat Classic

Events /

11-mile trail run through the North Cascades

A runner begins the descent from Cutthroat Pass by Steve Mitchell

Topping the charts in inspiration and popularity, the Cutthroat Classic provides incredible mountain views along a spectacular section of high alpine trail. The Cutthroat course is an 11-mile singletrack trail run through the North Cascades, following the iconic Pacific Crest Trail up and over Cutthroat Pass. This year's race will be September 7, 2024 and is limited to 400 participants. It sells out early every year, so don't wait to register.

The Course

The mountain course begins at Rainy Pass on the North Cascades Scenic Highway, elevation 4,870 feet. The route follows the Pacific Crest Trail north on a steady, gradual five mile climb to Cutthroat Pass, elevation 6,835 feet. Runners then descend four miles to Cutthroat Lake (many switchbacks on a five to ten percent grade). The course continues gradually downhill for two more miles to the Cutthroat Creek Trailhead, elevation 4,480 feet. Total course length is 10.5 miles.

Cutthroat Classic Trail Run Download map

Waves

Runners self-seed in one of six waves. If you wish to run with a friend, please be sure to communicate with each other and register for the same start wave. The start times below are from Rainy Pass (PCT North Trailhead).

Wave 1 - 8:00 a.m.
Finish time is under 1:40 hours; elite of very fast runners only
Wave 2 - 8:03 a.m.
Finish time is 1:40-1:59 hours; no walking
Wave 3 - 8:06 a.m.
Finish time is 2:00-2:30 hours
Wave 4 - 8:09 a.m.
Finish time is 2:00-2:30 hours
Wave 5 - 8:12 a.m.
Finish time is 2:30-3:00 hours
Wave 6 - 8:15 a.m.
Finish time is 3:00-3:30 hours/minutes; slower runners that plan to speed hike some of the course

Results and Photos

Thank to our 2023 timing and photography partners! Congratulations to the top finishers (and everyone else, too!).
Results can be found at Negative Split Timing
Photos can be found at Early Winters Studios

Registration

$105 per person

Kids 17 and under are FREE, but must register by the deadline to participate. If you have served or are an active member in the military, we offer a 10 percent discount; contact us for more information. Please note that the refund fee has increased. There is a $50 refund fee and a $20 transfer fee prior to August 1st.

Registration details

Methow Trails is a non-profit organization. Income from this event supports year-round trail operations in the Methow Valley. There are no entry refunds, exchanges, transfers or rollovers after August 1st and the event may be cancelled due to severe weather conditions, fire, unhealthy air quality, road closures, natural disasters, or threats to local and national security. Please note, that the refund fee has increased. There is a $50 refund fee and a $20 transfer fee prior to August 1st. Registration Insurance is highly recommended and can be purchased through RunReg when you register.

Bib pick-up

4:00 - 6:00 p.m. Friday, September 6

6:15- 6:45 a.m. Saturday, September 7

Transportation and parking

The race departs from Mazama to Rainy Pass at 7:00 a.m. Return shuttles will leave the finish line for the after party in Mazama every 20 minutes between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

Self-supported shuttles are allowed, but please note that parking is very limited at the start and finish and a Northwest Forest Pass is required. A one-day pass is $5.00 and may be purchased at fee tubes at the Rainy Pass and Cutthroat Trailheads (exact cash or check required).

Racer bags

Runners may leave bags with extra clothing at the start line. Bags will be transported to the race finish

Aid stations

There will be one aid station at mile seven with energy chews, water and sport drinks. Aid station supplies are packed in by horseback. Mile seven is up and over Cutthroat Pass so runners are encouraged to carry their own fuel supplies.

Lunch

Lunches will be provided by Willow Brook Farm. All participants over 21 will get 1 FREE pint from Old Schoolhouse Brewery.

Divisions

17 and under
18-29
30-39
40-49
50-59
60-69
70+

Directions

MAZAMA COMMUNITY CENTER: From Winthrop, proceed approx. 14 miles west on Hwy 20 to mile marker 179. Take a right on Lost River Road. At intersection proceed straight and then right to park in the Mazama Corral Trailhead lot. Packet pick-up is in the Mazama Community Center-the red building on the eastern end of the parking lot.