On National Trails Day, June 7, 2008, runners, walkers, and ultras will take on the sixth annual Rainier to Ruston Rail-Trail Relay and Ultra. The 50-mile course follows the Foothills Trail from the shoulders of Mt. Rainier to the shores of Puget Sound. The trail passes through pristine wilderness and historic communities, following the old Northern Pacific railroad grade that once brought settlers and supplies into the west. The top runners, walkers, and ultras in each division receive the coveted Golden Spike Awards.

The Rainer to Ruston helps to promote the Foothills Rails-to-Trails Coalition, which is dedicated to completing a contiguous, non-motorized, public trail from Mt. Rainier to Tacoma. The trail has once again been improved upon in the last year, bringing the Foothills Trail that much closer to completion.

There are many opportunities for teams of walkers, runners and ultras over the 50-mile course, and shorter courses are available. For more information on the relay and registration, please visit their website.