The Hoodoo Challenge in Sisters, OR scenery and experience

The Hoodoo Challenge: Run To The Top

Home » Races » Oregon » Sisters » The Hoodoo Challenge: Run To The Top
Date

Jul 25, 2026

Starting Time

8:00 AM PDT

Course

Trail

Fees

$65-$80

Location

Sisters

Participants

1-100

Terrain

Extremely Difficult

Environment

Lakefront, Mountain Views, Forested

Temperature
High: 70°
/ Low: 60°
Perfect For:
Destination Race
Family Friendly
Charity Race
Overview

The Hoodoo Challenge is a one-of-a-kind trail half marathon that literally climbs to the top—adding nearly 1,000 ft of vertical gain over scenic single-track and ski-area trails before a steep final ascent to Hoodoo summit. After summiting, runners descend—or walk down, depending on tired legs—to the finish line at Hoodoo Lodge where a hosted lunch and awards await.

Designed by the Kiwanis Club of Sisters as a fundraiser for youth and local service projects, this race blends serious challenge with meaningful community impact. Early-registrants pay $65 (rising to $80 after June 28); junior runners (under 18) run for $25. All participants receive a 2-for-1 lift ticket voucher for Hoodoo, with optional Dri‑Fit shirts and trucker hats available at registration. Top Ohio finishers in each distance earn season passes to Hoodoo Ski Area.

Expect scenic forest terrain, dusty technical tread, and expansive views of the Cascade lakes and ski runs en route. Despite the brutal climb, many runners call it “rewarding,” describing the summit views as unforgettable—for both elites and first-timers alike. Family and volunteer involvement is high; small finish numbers (50–60 half finishers in 2025) help keep it intimate.

Whether you’re chasing elevation, local pride, or a ceremonial summit run with a cause, the Hoodoo Challenge delivers. It’s trail racing with grit, scenery, and community spirit fused at nearly 6,000 ft.

🌟 Why You’ll Love It

The Hoodoo Challenge is a vertical masterpiece—camp-like trail racing with elevation views, family-friendly community support, and a cause-driven finish line. It’s rugged, rewarding, and uniquely Pacific Northwest. If you’d like elevation charts, advice for tackling the final climb, or travel tips for Sisters OR, I’d be happy to help plan your summit!

Course Description

The course follows scenic forested trails with amazing views from the top of Potato Hill. Runners will then walk back down the mountain for a hosted lunch and awards ceremony at the Hoodoo Lodge parking area.

There is also 5K race that will begin at the Hoodoo parking lot and end at the top of Hoodoo. This trail also offers scenic views and is a great option for runners and walkers that don’t want to take on the half marathon course.

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