Course Description

5 Kilometer Course Description

The course is 5000 meters entirely within Ft. Steilacoom Park in Lakewood. Both the start and finish are in the grassy area by the “historic” barns and play area. The first mile is generally flat and open. Runners head out between the barns and along the pathway between the pioneers cemetery and the dog park. From there they go out into the fields, headed towards the lone fir tree and the park entrance. They then loop back towards the start/finish area. The mile is by the barn and silo. There is a hill at about 1 ¼ miles leading up to the Hill Ward site. From there, the runners head down to the lake, and then across another set of fields as they approach the two mile mark. Shortly after two miles, the runners go up another steeper hill of approximately 175 meters. At the crest of the hill, the runners turn left down a gently descending path through the woods, coming out at another set of fields. At this point, runners are just over 1000 meters from the finish. Runners cross through the fields to a tree covered avenue. About 60 meters from the finish, they turn to the right and head back towards the dog park. The dog park is approximately 400 meters from the finish.

The majority of the course is grass and dirt trails, with a little bit of gravel road thrown in for variety. There is a small amount of pavement (less than 5%). This is a good viewing course. The runners are in full view for most of the first mile, the middle, and again most of the last mile. With just a little bit of walking, coaches can see their runners for about 70% of the course. The course is wide open, with plenty of room to race, and with terrain for both “strength” & “speed” runners. Those runners who lose their focus can enjoy the fall foliage, the scenic & historic barns, and a lovely view of Mt. Rainier over Lake Waughop. Spikes are recommended.

Viewing The Race

Spectators may see the runners up close by just walking a few hundred yards from the start, and still be able to get back to the finish. These points will be on the course map as well. All of these points can be walked to after watching the start of the race. Of course, the energetic spectator can see even more.

Opening mile loop: Good early view of the pack
Old Corral: Just after the mile where things begin to happen.
Hill Ward: This new site has pedestrian pathways up a labyrinth. You can see much of the course from "up above" as well as seing the runners up close as they crest the first hill.
Lake Corner: The most popular viewing area. It's just across the gravel parking lot. A spectator can watch the start, be at the mile, walk to this point, and still have time to walk back to the finish for most races.