Fort Ebey State Park is a scenic destination in the middle of Whidbey Island. Originally acquired to protect Puget Sound from naval invasion, its stunning beachfront bluffs have commanding views onto the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Runners will line up at the Gun Battery picnic area, perfectly situated to take in the Olympic Mountains, which seem to rise abruptly out of the salt water.
The mostly rolling route winds through and among forested kettle depressions, seemingly created by an enormous ice cream scoop but actually formed by gigantic hunks of melting ice. Many of the trails flow gently along the rims of these depressions, with some sections featuring tighter twists and turns.
While there are no major climbs, the overall elevation gain adds up quickly. The marathon distance reaches an elevation gain of 5500′ which is approximately 1500 more feet than you can gain running up popular peaks in the I-90 corridor. All courses include a stretch with a waterfront view along the scenic bluff-top trail.
Join us for the beautiful Fort Ebey Kettles Trail Run!