Slay the Dragon 2025: Fog, Fire, and Finish Lines

A Moody Start

The day began under a blanket of fog—classic Silver Star mystique. Visibility may have been low, but the energy at the start line was sky-high. Runners gathered at dawn, nervous and excited, layering up for a cool mountain start with the promise of sunshine (eventually).

And let’s be real—nothing says “epic trail race” quite like chasing dragons through misty alpine trails.

The Courses: 13KM, 25KM, 50KM & The Dragon Vertical Climb

Each distance brought its own flavor of challenge. The 13km racers zipped through techy climbs and sweeping descents, while the 25km athletes faced a spicy middle distance with ridge-line exposure and rolling singletrack.

Then came the beast: the 50km ultra. These runners tackled it all—mud, fog, elevation, and grit. And this year, the dragon was slain in record time by Chris Balestrini, who scorched the course in 4:19:45.

For those with a little fire left in their legs, the next day featured our second-annual Dragon Vertical Climb—a 2km, 450m ascent straight up from the base to the top of the Comet Chair. It was lung-burning, calf-crushing glory, with Scott Fraser and Staci White claiming King and Queen Dragon titles.

Community Spirit & Volunteer Power

Behind every cheering spectator, every well-stocked aid station, and every smooth transition was our incredible team of volunteers. From foggy set-up crews at sunrise to those handing out hot coffee and hugs at the finish line—you made the day.

Big love to our setup crew legends Michael, Owen, and Jayson; our voice-losing announcer Randi; our queen of logistics Carla; and every single person who gave their time and heart to this event.

Capturing the Magic

This year’s race was beautifully captured by Vanessa Garrison Photography and videographer PK Snow. The result? Dozens of moments frozen in time: the elation, the exhaustion, the muddy calves, the dragon hugs at the finish.

Photos and video are free to download—please tag the creators when sharing!

Baby Dragons Took the Trail Too

Our littlest runners had their moment in the spotlight with Slay the Baby Dragon, a fun 2.7km kids’ trail event. From toddlers to pre-teens, we saw fierce effort, determined strides, and the kind of joy that reminds us why we do this in the first place.

A Day to Remember

Slay the Dragon 2025 wasn’t just a race—it was an experience. The kind where strangers become trail buddies, where the fog feels like home, and where you cross the finish line knowing you’ve done something big.

To everyone who ran, volunteered, cheered, sponsored, or simply showed up: thank you. You make this community powerful, inclusive, and absolutely unstoppable.

Coming in 2026: Slay the Dragon Trail Festival

Get ready for something brand new in 2026. We're evolving the experience into the Slay the Dragon Trail Festival—a full weekend celebration of mountain culture, movement, and community.

🎶 Live music, 🥾 more trail events, 🧘 wellness experiences, 🎨 local vendors, and plenty of surprises...

More information coming soon. Stay tuned, and get ready to level up your summer adventure.