Runners, walkers and canine companions will return for Deception Park’s 2023 summer season with the second annual “Swing the Gates” races featuring an adventurous 10K team scavenger hunt.

Are you and your friends ready to race at full speed up and down the hills of Deception Pass State Park with only a small paper map to guide you? There are a few spots left to register to be one of 25 teams competing in the 10K team scavenger hunt on March 25.

Last year’s 10K scavenger hunt tested participants’ natural and historical knowledge, challenged their word unscrambling abilities, and even recalled their middle school algebra lessons. Though the real test was finding the fastest route between each checkpoint.

For those serious runners looking to beat their personal best, and those who just aren’t ready for a 10K challenge, there will be a “chip time” 5K fun run. This paved course welcomes everyone, including leashed dogs and strollers. The top place finishers in each category could receive prizes such as a free kayak tour, hoodies or collapsible bottles.

The event is hosted by the Deception Pass Park Foundation. This year, the races will start and finish at West Beach to celebrate on the beautiful shores of Deception Pass. All participants will receive a commemorative 2023 Swing the Gates mug at the finish line.

Get your friends and family together and register at https://runsignup.com/Race/WA/OakHarbor/swingthegates. Pre-registration is required.

This event also requires a ton of volunteers to be successful. Please go to the website to see which volunteer positions are still available.