About this race
The Swing the Gates Run offers participants three routes through Deception Pass State Park: a chip-timed Competitive 5K, a 5K Family Fun Run, and a 10K scavenger hunt for teams. The competitive 5K begins the morning's events, followed shortly by the scavenger hunt, with the family 5K starting later. This schedule creates a distinct separation between competitive racing, exploration, and casual running.
The 5K primarily uses paved paths, and the family run welcomes strollers, young children, and dogs. The 10K scavenger hunt utilizes mostly unpaved park trails. Teams of up to four solve clues during the hunt, meaning the total distance can vary based on their navigation efficiency. The event is cupless; 10K teams must carry their own water as it is not supplied on the course. The top scavenger-hunt team members each receive a Deception Pass State Park hoodie.