Operation BIGFOOT

Operation BIGFOOT

June 21, 2025 | Mount Rainier National Park Region, Washington

Distance: 6.5 / 11.5 / 18.5 +/- miles

Weight: 20 lbs dry

Elevation: 2,411 / 3,930 / 5,629 +/- elevation gain

Brief Start Time: Saturday, June 21, 2025 at 0730 hrs

Event Start Time: Saturday, June 21, 2025 at 0800 hrs

Start Location: Crystal Mountain Resort, South of Parking Lot

Event Finish Time: Saturday, June 21, 2025 at 1700 hrs

Finish Location: Crystal Mountain Resort, South of Parking Lot

Situation

Are you ready to take on the wild beauty of Washington? Operation BIGFOOT, set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Rainier National Park, offers you the chance to challenge yourself in one of the most breathtaking areas in the Pacific Northwest. With towering peaks, dense forests, and rugged terrain, this part of Washington is known for its untamed landscapes and panoramic views. You'll push through trails that wind through ancient forests and offer glimpses of snow-capped mountains, testing both your endurance and mental toughness.

Whether you’re up for the MINI, STANDARD, or MAX route, each option provides a unique challenge with 20 lbs dry weight. From shorter, intense efforts to longer endurance tests, this event is designed to push you to your limits. Choose your adventure and conquer the wilderness!

Mission

Operation BIGFOOT MINI. Candidates must carry 20 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 6.5 +/- mile route in under 4 hours to pass and under 2.5 hours to earn the GBF Operation BIGFOOT MINI Dog Tag.

Operation BIGFOOT. Candidates must carry 20 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 11.5 +/- mile route in under 6 hours to pass and under 4.5 hours to earn the GBF Operation BIGFOOT Dog Tag.

Operation BIGFOOT MAX. Candidates must carry 20 lbs (dry weight) and complete the 18.5 +/- mile route in under 8 hours to pass and under 7 hours to earn the GBF Operation BIGFOOT MAX Dog Tag. The winner will earn the elite Gold Dog Tag.

Execution

Candidates will meet at the Crystal Mountain Resort. At 0730 hours, GBF Staff will give an event brief before answering any questions and releasing the candidates to begin the route at 0800 hours.

Service Support

Mapping. GBF events use the AllTrails app for navigation. To download the route from AllTrails, you will need to sign up for a membership. GBF suggests candidates have a paper map, compass, and GPS too.

Route. Ensure you download the map for offline use. Cell service is not guaranteed.

The route for Operation BIGFOOT MINI is here.

The route for Operation BIGFOOT is here.

The route for Operation BIGFOOT MAX is here.

Weight. Candidates must carry a minimum of 20 lbs dry (i.e. without food and water) in a backpack. Weight vests or sandbags are not permitted.

Equipment

Mandatory Equipment

• Backpack (waterproof inner-bags)
• Phone (fully charged)
• Phone charger
• LifeStraw (or similar water filtration system)
• Head Torch (spare batteries)
• Hydration bladder(s)
• Whistle
• Compass
• Emergency rations (see below)
• Emergency shelter
• Personal First Aid Kit

Strongly Recommended

• Maps (waterproofed)
• GPS
• Blister kit
• Pocket knife
• Chem-light/Cyalume
• Hiking poles
• MRE(s)
• Microspikes
• Garmin InReach or Satellite Phone

Dress. Candidates' dress will be a personal choice. It can be cold in June so ensure you bring warm clothes.

Checkpoints. There are no checkpoints on this route.

Water. There will be bottled water at the finish point. Candidates should carry enough water to last the route distance plus 3 additional miles, in case they get lost.

Rations. Candidates should have a minimum of 3 energy bars and 0.5 liters of water as emergency rations.

Medical. Every candidate requires a personal medical kit. GBF Staff must be made aware of any medical conditions before starting the event.

Transportation. Transport to and from the event will be at the candidate's arrangement.

Command and Signal. GBF HQ: 941-993-9432

The Fine Print

Numbers. Maximum number of candidates 30. Minimum number of candidates 10.

Refunds. Refunds will be in the form of a GBF voucher to use towards future events. Refunds must be requested 30 days before the event start date.

Event Changes. Slight changes to any event including, but not limited to route changes, brief times, start locations, and other details are under the discretion of GBF Staff.