ASHLAND, OR — Outdoor enthusiasts and runners will once again have a chance to experience the rugged beauty of Southern Oregon’s Siskiyou Mountains, as the Mt. Ashland Trail Run makes its highly anticipated return on Saturday, September 13, 2025. Organized by Ultra Excuses, this year’s event promises to be bigger than ever, coinciding for the first time with the Mt. Ashland Ski Area’s planned Oktoberfest celebration.
The Mt. Ashland Trail Run has long been a staple of the regional running community, drawing participants from across Oregon and beyond. Known for its challenging yet breathtaking course, the race offers a unique opportunity to explore Mt. Ashland’s alpine terrain, with sweeping views that stretch from the iconic peak of Mt. Shasta to the expansive Rogue Valley below.
“By moving the race to September and pairing it with Oktoberfest, we’re creating a full weekend of celebration for the outdoor community,” said race director Andrew Gast. “It’s a great way to combine fitness, mountain adventure, and local culture.”
This year’s race format offers flexible options to accommodate a variety of skill levels and interests. Participants can choose between one, two, or three loops — each referred to as a “summit.” Each loop covers 3.7 miles and features nearly 1,000 feet of climbing, offering a rewarding challenge for runners and hikers alike. Organizers are also working to introduce a new half marathon course, which would utilize trails unique to Mt. Ashland and provide an additional test of endurance for experienced trail runners.
The event is open to all ages, welcoming both competitive runners and those simply looking to enjoy a day of hiking and mountain scenery. In 2024, the trail run attracted participants from multiple states, with some traveling from as far away as Missouri to take part. The addition of the Oktoberfest celebration this year is expected to further enhance the event’s appeal, creating a festive mountain atmosphere with live music, food, and family-friendly activities.
Registration for the Mt. Ashland Trail Run is now open, with limited spaces available. Organizers encourage interested participants to register early to secure a spot. Registration can be completed here online.
The festivities will kick off with the trail run on Saturday morning, followed by Oktoberfest celebrations at the Mt. Ashland Ski Area. Full details about Oktoberfest activities, including music lineups and food offerings, are expected to be announced later this summer.
Mt. Ashland Ski Area, located just a short drive south of Ashland, Oregon, serves as the event’s base. Known for its scenic beauty and strong community spirit, Mt. Ashland has long been a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including skiing, hiking, and mountain biking. The September timing of the race offers participants cooler temperatures and vibrant late-summer landscapes, providing ideal conditions for trail running and hiking.
The combined weekend of athletic competition and celebration highlights Mt. Ashland’s commitment to fostering a vibrant mountain community year-round. Both the trail run and Oktoberfest aim to attract local residents and visitors alike, providing a boost to the area’s outdoor tourism economy.
For those looking to experience the Siskiyous in all their rugged beauty, participate in a challenging yet accessible athletic event, and enjoy a lively mountain festival, the Mt. Ashland Trail Run and Oktoberfest weekend promises something for everyone.