FREQUENTLY ASKED

QUESTIONS

What is the Super HYAK Marathon & Half Marathon?

The Super Hyak Marathon & Half Marathon, part of the Run Super Series, are annual running events held at Snoqualmie Pass, Washington. The event features both a USATF-certified marathon and half marathon, offering runners a fast, scenic course through the Cascade Mountains.

Known as one of the fastest races in the country in its class, the Super Hyak courses combine gentle downhill profiles with iconic scenery, making them ideal for personal records, Boston Qualifiers, and unforgettable race-day experiences.


REGISTRATION

How do I register for the race?

Registration can be completed online through our RunSignUp page. Click on the "Register" button on our website and follow the instructions to secure your spot.

What is included in my registration fee?

Your registration fee includes entry to the race, a custom medal, a tech shirt, a Run Super Series drawstring bag, downloadable race photos, hydration stations and professional timing services.

What is the return/refund policy?

Our refund policy is strict: no refunds, transfers, or deferrals, including switching to other races or other runners. This policy ensures fairness and supports essential race elements like permits, traffic control, medals, insurance, and facilities. We do check ID’s at bib pickup as it is an insurance liability as well as a fast course for BQing and age group placing. Be cool. Run with your bib.

i purchased race insurance, how do i contact them?

Although consumers purchase through the RunSignup website, RegShield is a third-party entity, and all plan-related questions should be directed to FanShield via the following channels: 

Domestic: help@fanshield.com 

Filing a refund request with RegShield is easy. We recommend selecting the “File A Refund Request” at the bottom of the confirmation email. Alternatively, the consumer can visit the web page below: https://requestmyrefund.com/fanshield/refund

For more information please visit their support portal


RACE DAY

When is packet pickup?

  • FRIDAY, time TBD at Snoqualmie Running in Snoqualmie, WA.

  • If you can’t make it, you can add on race day packet-pickup for $25 (6:00-6:45AM for marathon and 6:45-7:15AM for half marathon at Hyak Trailhead). These fees go towards our race parter and help us avoid late race starts due to long lines.

What time does the race start?

  • Marathon: 7:00 AM

  • Half Marathon: 7:30 AM

Please arrive early to check in and warm up.

Where does the race start and finish?

Both races start at Hyak Trail Head. The Half ends at Garcia crossing, one mile up from the main road, and the Marathon finishes at Homestead Valley Trailhead on the Palouse to Cascades trail. There is no parking at the marathon finish.

Is the Super Hyak Marathon a Boston Qualifier?

Yes. The Super Hyak Marathon is a Boston Marathon Qualifier and is run on a USATF-certified course. The course features a net downhill of just under 1,500 feet, which remains within Boston Marathon qualifying standards and does not carry a qualifying time penalty.

Is the Super Hyak Half Marathon also certified?

Yes. The Super Hyak Half Marathon is USATF certified, making it eligible for official records and personal bests.

Will my qualifying time be accepted by the Boston Marathon?

Yes. As long as you meet the Boston Marathon qualifying standards for your age group and gender, your time from the USATF-certified Super Hyak Marathon is fully eligible for Boston Marathon registration.

Does the downhill course affect Boston Qualifying times?

No. The Super Hyak Marathon’s net downhill is fully compliant with Boston Marathon rules, meaning no time adjustment or penalty is applied to qualifying results.

Why is Super Hyak considered a fast Boston Qualifier?

The Super Hyak Marathon is considered one of the fastest Boston Qualifier courses because it combines:

  • A gradual, runnable downhill profile

  • Smooth gravel trail surfaces

  • Minimal elevation gain

  • Consistent pacing opportunities

These factors contribute to a high PR and BQ success rate year after year.Is Super Hyak suitable for first-time marathoners aiming for a BQ?

Absolutely. The course is well-supported, clearly marked, and designed for efficient pacing—making it a strong choice for both first-time marathoners and experienced runners chasing a Boston Qualifier.

DO I NEED A LIGHT?

YES! Absolutely, the tunnel is ~2.4 miles long. You must carry your light with you or you can drop it and donate it for future runners that forget their light. If you drop your light in the bin after the tunnel, you will not get it back, please carry it with you if that matters. We suggest purchasing an inexpensive little flashlight.

Will there be bag check?

Yes! Bag drops will be available at the start area, ziptied, and available for organized pickup in the finish areas.

What shoes should I wear?

Road shoes are fine. Trail shoes are a bit “too much”. Racing shoes tend to get shredded by the hard packed gravel.

What fluids and gels are available?

We offer water and gatorade at every aid station about every 2-2.5 miles.
GU gels are along the course at a few aid stations.

What are the course routes?

The marathon and half marathon courses are scenic downhill routes featuring the Cascade Mountains, Keechelus Lake, and the 2.4-mile Snoqualmie Tunnel. Detailed maps are available on our website.

Are dogs allowed?

No. Per USATF rules, dogs are not allowed in the Marathon & Half Marathon.

Are strollers allowed?

No. This is an open course with hard packed gravel including a long dark tunnel, so this is a safety issue for this race. Our other events are a YES!

Are headphones allowed?

Yes, but please use only a single earbud at a low volume or bone conduction headphones.


Certification

Is this a USATF certified course, and a Boston Qualifier?

The USATF Certification number is WA25021RMB and it is a Boston Qualifier.
The Half Marathon USATF certification is WA25023RMB.

SUPPORT AND SERVICES

What support will be available on the course?

The course will have ample hydration stations and enthusiastic volunteers to guide and cheer you on. Medics are along the course and at the finish line. Search and Rescue roam the course for safety, offering support and necessary interventions or extractions as needed. Aid stations have the ability to make phone calls to Search and Rescue or 911 and have first aid kits.

Can my friends and family come to watch?

Spectators are welcome to cheer runners at the start. Stay at the start to cheer on the marathoners when they return from the out-n-back. On course otherwise isn’t the easiest to access and spots are limited to view due to the remote trail. Spectators can park on Homestead Valley Road and walk 1 mile up to the half finish line to cheer on their runner. Note this is also mile 23 of the marathon and spectators can cheer on marathoners there too. Spectators must NOT drive up to the half finish line, this is very important for safety reasons. There is no parking at the marathon finish area.

POST-RACE

What happens after the race?

Join us for a post-race celebration with refreshments, food, music, and cool vibes. Celebrate your achievement and connect with the community for a fun post-race atmosphere.

How will I get my race photos?

Professional race photos will be available for download after the event. You can find your photos on your individual Brooksee Timing results page. They will be down at the bottom of the page.