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race info

The course

Loops at Lincoln.

Seattle, WA 

Amazingly diverse for its size, the One Step Closer course offers a little bit of everything. Participants will tackle a scenic two-mile loop, completing as many laps as they can during their chosen event: 18 hours, 12 hours, 6 hours, or 3 hours. Don’t let the short loop fool you—every mile is packed with incredible scenery, unique features, and an atmosphere unlike any other race.

The first mile follows the breathtaking shoreline of the Puget Sound. This mostly flat section combines paved paths with packed gravel as runners take in waterfront views, watch ferries glide across the Sound, and pass Bruun Idun, Lincoln Park’s beloved troll, as she calls to the orcas. Keep your eyes open—you may spot owls, seals, whales, bald eagles, or the countless squirrels that love to make appearances along the way.

From there, runners tackle a short but spicy climb up a single-track trail into the upper portion of the park. The reward is a peaceful escape beneath towering evergreens, where winding forest trails, lush ferns, and cool shade create a completely different running experience before bringing you back to home base at the start/finish area.

Each lap offers something new. Watch the sunrise filter through the trees, enjoy the warmth of the afternoon, experience golden hour lighting up the forest, and finish beneath a sky full of stars. One of the most unforgettable moments of the day is sure to be the spectacular summer sunset over the Puget Sound—a view that reminds you exactly why you’re out there.

Back at the start/finish area every two miles, the celebration never stops. Grab a snack, visit the aid station, cheer on fellow runners, relax with friends, or even sneak in a quick nap before heading back out for another lap. This isn’t just a race—it’s your summer party.

Whether your goal is a personal best, your longest run ever, or simply enjoying an unforgettable day with friends, One Step Closer is about celebrating every individual journey. At 10:00 p.m., all participants—regardless of distance or event—cross the finish line together for one incredible celebration. It’s the perfect way to honor every challenge conquered, every goal achieved, and every step that brought us there.

Because that’s what One Step Closer is all about.

All abilities and experience levels are welcome. Come create unforgettable memories, challenge yourself, and celebrate alongside one of the most supportive running communities you’ll ever find. We can’t wait to party with you this summer!

THE ON-COURSE SUPPORT

The on-course support is the highlight of One Step Closer and what transforms this race into one giant summer party!

The heart of the event is the start/finish area, located on a baseball field that runners pass through every two miles. More than just a start line, it’s a festival atmosphere complete with music, rotating aid station snacks, a glam station, tie-dye activities, selfie spots, and a loop tally station. Friends, families, and run clubs are encouraged to bring chairs, snacks, tents, and pop-up canopies to create their own cheering sections on the field and throughout the course. Whether you’re running, crewing, or spectating, everyone becomes part of the celebration.

The energy only grows as the day goes on. New runners join the course throughout the event, with the 18-hour race beginning at 4:00 a.m., the 12-hour at 10:00 a.m., the 6-hour at 4:00 p.m., and the 3-hour at 7:00 p.m. Every new start brings fresh excitement, new cheering sections, and even more energy to the course. To keep runners motivated, our aid station menu rotates throughout the day, with a menu board announcing the latest treats and surprises waiting at the next lap.

As if the start/finish festival wasn’t enough, the encouragement continues around the course. One mile in, you’ll find our waterfront volunteer aid station near the troll, where volunteers ring cowbells, create colorful chalk art, hand out water, and—during the warmest hours of the day—serve refreshing Otter Pops. It’s the perfect mid-loop boost before heading back toward the forest.

The course’s only significant climb has become one of the event’s most beloved traditions. Since One Step Closer shares its name with the iconic Linkin Park song—and takes place in Lincoln Park—we’ve affectionately named it “About to Break Hill.” The climb is lined with motivational quotes, Linkin Park-inspired lyrics, twinkling lights, and enthusiastic volunteers waiting at the top to cheer every runner onward. What could be the toughest part of the loop quickly becomes one of the most memorable.

No matter which event you choose, every runner shares one unforgettable finish. At 10:00 p.m., participants from the 3-, 6-, 12-, and 18-hour races all celebrate together as they cross the finish line. Overall awards are presented, runners ring the PR bell to celebrate personal bests, and we’re hoping to make this year’s finish line party even bigger with a live DJ. It’s an incredible way to celebrate every milestone, every goal, and every runner.

Whether you’re chasing a new distance, running your first timed event, or simply looking for an unforgettable day with friends, One Step Closer offers an atmosphere unlike any other. This is more than a race—it’s a community celebration, and we can’t wait to cheer you every step of the way.

The Food

We will have a variety of snacks, water, and tailwind endurance fuel available throughout the entirety of the race.  We will also offer special treats throughout the day to mix things up for you.  Coffee and pastries in the morning, lunchtime sandwiches and popsicles, and BBQed burgers (with a vegan option) for dinner.  Feel free to also bring the snacks that motivate you most!   

CUPLESS RACING

Orca Running is committed to reducing waste and protecting the environment.  As part of this commitment, we are making all events cupless. The tiny little cups that are used for an instant generate tremendous amounts of garbage. We recommend you purchase a handheld bottle, a hydration pack, or we can provide you with a small re-useable cup that folds easily into your waistband to use during the entire race and future races.

WHO IS THIS RACE FOR?

We honestly think timed racing events can offer something to all!  

1.)  If you are new to trail running, and looking to try it in a fun, controlled, and safe environment. 

2.)  If you are “ultra” curious, and want to see how your body (or stomach) will handle time on your feet. 

3.)  If you are looking for a new way to challenge yourself, and want to see what you are capable of. 

4.)  If you want a race where you can take some pressure off of pace, and set your own goals and challenges to overcome. 

5.)  If you are looking for a unique way to spend a PNW summer day with all of your running buddies, or ultimate race bragging rights to post on your social media account.   

6.)  If you are crazy, but in the best of ways.   

Interested in running One Step Closer but can’t afford the entry fee? Or maybe you’re not sure if you belong (you do!)?

The Trail Mix Fund is here to support aspiring runners on their journey by offering the opportunity to apply for a complimentary entry. Their mission is to eliminate obstacles in the racing world by covering registration fees for those who may find it challenging to afford them or who might feel hesitant about their place in the sport. You can apply for a complimentary entry to One Step Closer here.

PARKING

Carpooling is highly recommended.  There are about 200 parking spaces available in the upper Lincoln Park lot available for event parking.  There is also on-street parking around Lincoln Park within walking distance.  Please note, the later you arrive the further away you may need to park.  Make sure to plan accordingly with your race start.   

Gear Check

We will have an area where you can place your items between loops.  You are also welcome to set up a spot/homebase within the picnic area.  We recommend using a zippered bag to keep snacks safe due to the many squirrels and wildlife found in Lincoln Park. 

Bring the Family!

YET Goal Setting Session & Race Prep Morning

Connect with fellow runners, discover your YET, and get race-day ready with personalized gear support and community.

Date: Wednesday, August 12th

Time: 9:00am – 10am

Location: lululemon Southcenter

RSVP on Eventbrite HERE.

Packet Pickup

NEW FOR 2026:  Save some time on race day and come to pre-race packet pick-up!

Date: Thursday, August 13th

Time: 4:00pm-6:00pm

Location: West Seattle Runner

Want to practice the course before race day!?  Run with West Seattle Runner on Saturday mornings on the course in Lincoln Park.

race day schedule

3:30am: Packet Pickup Opens (open all day).

4:00 am: 18 Hour Start 

6:00 am: Sunrise Yoga with lululemon Ambassador Sharon

10:00 am: 12 Hour Start

2:00pm: Kid’s 1 Hour Start

2:30pm: Kid’s 30 Minute Start

4:00 pm: 6 Hour Start

7:00 pm: 3 Hour Start

8:00 pm: Sunset Yoga with lululemon Ambassador Sharon 

9:00pm:  DJ Jason Guerrero begins! 

10:00 pm: Finish & Finish Line Party! 

10:10pm: Awards Celebration

Please note: In general, we do not pull anyone off a race course, as long as they are moving forward with determination, under their own power.  However, we reserve the right to remove any participants from the race course as needed, based upon weather conditions, assessment of the participant’s physical condition, and other reasons.

WHY RUNNERS LOVE THIS RACE  

“So many of us got PRs – we did something we had never done before. Challenged ourselves to achieve something previously unimaginable and we all had fun in the process. Thank you for creating a race that was less focused on speed and more on individual challenges. It was so inspiring and this is the most fun I’ve ever had at a race.”

“Felt like a true ‘all paces welcome’ event.”  

“Location was fabulous. Loved the mix of trail/ gravel and road.”

“I loved that it felt really non-competitive. Or more specifically, that it could be as competitive as you wanted it to be. As a person who knew they weren’t going to podium, I did have to worry about who was on what loop. I could just set a goal for myself and see how I did.”

“The whole thing honestly. It was an amazing experience. The 2.2 mile loop was just long enough to not get redundant and made for perfect aid station timing.”

“The vibes were immaculate. So much energy from the race directors and volunteers all day!! Loved that we all finished together. Food was great. Loved getting to run with friends even if they were doing different overall times.”   

“The camaraderie of everyone. Everyone from the race directors to the volunteers to the other runners were incredibly kind and welcoming. This was my first event like this, and everyone made me feel extremely at home.”

“The people! Each time I came into the party area I was greeted with such enthusiasm it really helped keep me going!”

“The smaller loop and support and cheer at the start/ finish made me feel like I was continuously supported throughout the entire race and gave me the motivation to keep going.”

“One of the best fixed time events that I’ve ran.”

“The race course was beautiful and worked well even when it was hotter. Having a 2.2 mile loop allowed most of our party to go further than we thought we would. Our family is training for a marathon and half marathon and this was a great way to walk/run higher mileage in a safe, fun setting. Thanks again!”

“I LOVED this race! I have run a lot of “regular” races, including some ultras, but have always been intrigued about timed events and was so excited when this race was announced. I felt it played to my strengths (not fast, but persistent and can shuffle forward for a long time) and it’s true. As a mid to back of the packer in regular races, it was SO awesome to finish with everyone else, so we could all experience the “finishing feels” together.”

“I honestly thought I wouldn’t like the “finish all together” finish. But it was the highlight of the entire event! Celebrating all the top finishers at the end was really cool!”      

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