Cascade Express Marathon

Set in North Bend with a September 2026 date, the Cascade Express Marathon offers a road course that stays mostly flat with gentle rolling hills, making it a solid option if you want to chase a time without fighting significant elevation. The route ranges between 429 and 786 meters above sea level with only 58 meters of total gain, so you're not looking at a high-altitude effort or a punishing vertical grind. This is the kind of course where your fitness and pacing matter more than your climbing legs, and the relatively modest elevation profile means you can run your own race rather than adjust tactics for major terrain. If you're targeting a personal best or building confidence over the full 42.2 kilometers, the flat-to-rolling character works in your favor, though you'll want to check the race website for details on aid stations, course markings, and any specific logistics for the North Bend location.