2021 Results
October 30, 2021 - 9 AM
Lake Sammamish State Park Boat Launch/East Lake Sammamish Trail
Help us raise a monstrous amount of support for local students by joining us Saturday, October 30th, for the Issaquah Schools Foundation Monster Mash 5K! Hosted at Lake Sammamish State Park Boat Launch and the East Lake Sammamish Trail, this first-ever, professionally chip-timed 5K route is perfect for soaking up the fall colors and fresh air!
Stretch and warm up beside gorgeous Lake Sammamish before you blast off from the back row of the parking lot onto the fast, flat, paved East Lake Sammmamish Trail. (See route preview) Event parking is conveniently located immediately next to the Start/Finish line and free with your WA State Parks Discover Pass. Reserved start waves are designed to welcome all activity levels, whether you're an elite runner looking to PR, a walker who doesn't care to be rushed, or somewhere in between.
We aim to create a comfortable space and place for all to participate, so phased start-times, wave limits and masking requirements will be in place. For those who feel more comfortable running closer to home or indoors, a virtual race option with the same race swag is also available. Set a new training goal for yourself, beat the weekend sugar rush, or simply embrace the holiday spirit and reconnect friends outdoor while helping to raise funds for local students.
Stretch and warm up beside gorgeous Lake Sammamish before you blast off from the back row of the parking lot onto the fast, flat, paved East Lake Sammmamish Trail. (See route preview) Event parking is conveniently located immediately next to the Start/Finish line and free with your WA State Parks Discover Pass. Reserved start waves are designed to welcome all activity levels, whether you're an elite runner looking to PR, a walker who doesn't care to be rushed, or somewhere in between.
We aim to create a comfortable space and place for all to participate, so phased start-times, wave limits and masking requirements will be in place. For those who feel more comfortable running closer to home or indoors, a virtual race option with the same race swag is also available. Set a new training goal for yourself, beat the weekend sugar rush, or simply embrace the holiday spirit and reconnect friends outdoor while helping to raise funds for local students.
Costumes and festive holiday wear are strongly encouraged!
Those who choose to dress to impress will be entered into a raffle for gift cards to local restaurants and stores
PLEASE NOTE:
Due to King County Covid-19 restrictions, Monster Mash 5K is a PARTICIPANT-ONLY event.
We apologize for the inconvenience, but we are unable to welcome un-registered spectators at this time. All who arrive to MM5K must be able to show proof of registration. Please refer to the FAQ at the bottom of this page for more details.
Due to King County Covid-19 restrictions, Monster Mash 5K is a PARTICIPANT-ONLY event.
We apologize for the inconvenience, but we are unable to welcome un-registered spectators at this time. All who arrive to MM5K must be able to show proof of registration. Please refer to the FAQ at the bottom of this page for more details.
Additional awards for:
Additional awards for:Overall 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place (Male/Female categories)
Age category winners for:
Under 10, 10-14, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+
Sponsorship Opportunities
100% of all proceeds go to support local students via the Issaquah Schools Foundation.
Age category winners for:
Under 10, 10-14, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+
Sponsorship Opportunities
100% of all proceeds go to support local students via the Issaquah Schools Foundation.
Wave start times:
To encourage social distancing we are utilizing a wave start time. Participants select their wave during registration. The wave options are:
9:00 AM - Elite runners
9:02 AM - General Runners
9:04 AM - General Runners
9:06 AM - General Runners + Walkers/Joggers
9:08 AM - Joggers/Walkers
9:10 AM - Walkers
9:00 AM - Elite runners
9:02 AM - General Runners
9:04 AM - General Runners
9:06 AM - General Runners + Walkers/Joggers
9:08 AM - Joggers/Walkers
9:10 AM - Walkers
In-Person 5K or Virtual Race Options Available
Register by OCTOBER 10th to lock in best prices and race swag!
Each registration comes with a technical wicking T-shirt & unique medal
In-Person 5K or Virtual Race Options Available
Register by OCTOBER 10th to lock in best prices and race swag!
PLEASE NOTE: Due to King County Covid-19 restrictions, Monster Mash 5K is a PARTICIPANT-ONLY event. We apologize for the inconvenience, but we are unable to welcome un-registered spectators at this time. All who arrive to MM5K must be able to show proof of registration. Please refer to the FAQ page for more details.
Register by OCTOBER 10th to lock in best prices and race swag!
- Early Bird Registration (Ends 9/17): $35
- 9/18-10/10/21: $40
- 10/11-10/25/21: $45* - Registration now closes 11:59 PM on October 25.
- We have reached capacity for the event and there will not be day of event registration.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to King County Covid-19 restrictions, Monster Mash 5K is a PARTICIPANT-ONLY event. We apologize for the inconvenience, but we are unable to welcome un-registered spectators at this time. All who arrive to MM5K must be able to show proof of registration. Please refer to the FAQ page for more details.
Race Swag
Race swag includes a first edition commemorative Monster Mash technical running/workout shirt and a sweet medal.
Early Packet Pick-Up Available 10/29/21 at Plateau Runner, 2-6 PM
Start/Finish Line/Registration/Packet-Pick Up/Onsite Parking:
West Lake Sammamish State Park Boat Launch
4455 E Lake Sammamish Pkwy SE, Issaquah, WA 98029
4455 E Lake Sammamish Pkwy SE, Issaquah, WA 98029
FAQ
What does my registration fee pay for?
Your registration fee, along with the generous support of our sponsors, cover the cost of permitting for our venue, timing, and other hard costs. 100% of net proceeds will go to fund resources in all 26 Issaquah School District schools in the areas of Academic Support, Basic Student Needs, Mental, Behavioral, and Emotional Support, and Enrichment Programs.
Do I have to be a runner to participate?
Not at all! All ages and participation levels are welcome. We encourage time-conscious runners who average a 5K time of 24 minutes (7:41 min/mile pace or less) to register in our Elite Runner wave, but you will note that there is a wave dedicated to walkers, walk/joggers, and general runners of all speeds.
What type of Covid-19 safety precautions are being taken?
Registration will be limited to comply with current King County Covid restrictions. The total number of persons attending MM5K, including registered racers, volunteers, and staff will not to exceed 499 persons. It is important to note that only registered Monster Mash registrants will be allowed on site because these are the numbers we are using to document persons on-site. Additionally, racers will be registered into staggered starting times with limited numbers per wave. Wave corrals will be clearly marked, distanced, and released two minutes apart from each other. Masks will be required in the areas adjacent to the Start/Finish line which include the restrooms, parking lot, and registration/packet pick-up areas, and vendor tents at Lake Sammamish State Park. Masking along the actual 5K route is encouraged, but not required. Hand sanitizer will be available at tent locations and no open snacks or candy will be distributed.
Do I have to be vaccinated to attend the Monster Mash?
No. We commit to keep the Monster Mash 5K event below 500 attendees, so you do not have to show proof of vaccination to attend. You will, however, be asked to wear a mask in all areas except the running trail. In compliance with King County Covid restrictions, we will require ALL persons on the race premises to be officially registered so we can carefully monitor the number of persons on-site. It is not an option to attend this event as a spectator of a registered participant. All who attend the Monster Mash must be able to show proof of registration, even if you choose not to run so we can account for all persons in our numbers.
Do I need to bring a mask with me?
Yes, please. While masking on the 5K run itself is optional, masks will be required in all other areas adjacent to the Start/Finish line which include the restrooms, parking lot, registration/packet pick-up area, and sponsor tents at Lake Sammamish State Park. Expected to be asked to wear a mask or to be offered one in these areas if you do not have one on - thanks for understanding!
I can't quite picture how the staging area and route will be set up. Do you have more details?
Please view this video for a preview of both Monster Mash 5K staging and route areas.
How many people are you expecting and do I have other race options?
A first-year event can be difficult to predict, especially in a year with so many variables. With this said, we are initially planning for approximately 250-300 racers from our community, with the ability to scale up, if need be. If additional registrations are added, additional waves will be added to maintain distancing, and we commit to keep the event below 500 racers. For those who prefer to run/walk indoors or within their own neighborhoods, we have a virtual race option available, and this availability is unlimited. Virtual racers will receive the same technical tee and event medal that in-person racers receive and can either pick these items up at the Foundation or pay for shipping their race swag to their home. Both in-person and virtual racers help us support the students in our community... thank you!
Is there a dedicated little kid race?
While we had originally envisioned a shorter distanced Goblin Dash race for exclusively elementary-aged kids, we feel that it is in the best interest of the kids to forego this option this year. The Monster Mash 5K is open to all ages and all fitness levels, so we welcome you to bring whomever you feel comfortable bringing! If you choose to bring smaller children, you may find that it is more comfortable to register for one of the later start times with walkers or walker/joggers. We do not recommend strollers, and please note that 5K is 3.1 Miles. We look forward to hosting a Goblin Dash next year!
What’s the parking situation?
There is plentiful on-site parking at the Lake Sammamish State Park Boat Launch. This dedicated parking area is conveniently adjacent to the Monster Mash Start/Finish line and Registration/Packet Pick Up area. Since this is a Washington State Park, a Discover Pass is required for the day. Annual and Day Discover Passes can be purchased via local vendor with a small transaction fee, purchased at a State Park kiosk, or pre-purchased with your race registration without a transaction fee. If you choose to purchase a Discover Day Pass along with your race registration, your Discover Pass will be included with your race packet. If you already have a Discover Pass, then you're all set and parking will have no cost associated with it for the race!
If you do not own a Discover Pass and do not wish to pay for a day pass, there is free parking available near the ISD Central Administration building, which is approximately 1.25 miles away. It is of note that extra time should be allotted for walking to Lake Sammamish State Park should you choose this option and that the race start will not be held late arrivals.
Click here to view a slideshow preview of the parking/registration/start/finish line area.
What’s Included?
Each registration prior to October 10th, 2021, includes a technical wicking tee in a size of your choosing and a unique event medal. Due to the pandemic-related supply chain/manufacturing delays and issues, shirts/medals for registrations after 10/10/21 are not guaranteed for race day delivery and will likley arrive in Mid-November. These items will be available for pick up at the Foundation, or via paid shipping to your home.
Costumes are encouraged. What types of costumes?
We encourage you to embrace the season and wear whatever feels festive and comfortable to you. This can be anything from a family-friendly costume to silly accessories like tutus, crazy socks, and hats, or just committing to a color palette of all orange and black. All festively dressed racers will receive a raffle ticket entry for local gift card drawings and more!
Are you accepting morning-of registrations?
As long as we haven't hit our maximum number of pre-registered racers, we intend to offer a day-of registration. Please note that there may be very limited availability for these day-of registrations since we are limiting our event size. We will post the number of remaining available registrations the night before the race on our Facebook page and main event page. Please check both prior to arriving as an unregistered racer, and arrive at least 1 hour prior to avoid day-of sell-outs and lines. Please also note the delayed delivery of race swag.
How early can I pick up my packet and swag? Can I pick up another racer's packet for them?
Packets will be available for early pick up on 10/29/21 at Plateau Runner, exact time TBA. You may pick up packets for others as well. Please bring ID (for yours) and a printed/digital registration confirmation (screenshot of the confirmation email is fine) for others that are not present. As long as we can read the name, you can have the packet! Early packet pick up is a great way to avoid the day-of lines, and we strongly suggest it. This way, you can also race in your cool Monster Mash 5K shirt if you want!
I'm new to this - how early should I plan to arrive?
This is entirely up to you, but we'd generally recommend ~45 minutes ahead of time if you are pre-registered to allow for potential lines, packet pick up (if you haven't already done so - see option to pick up early), warm up, and find your starting corral. You'll have a fresh sunrise over the lake to soak up and enjoy, which also isn't a half bad way to pass the time if you find yourself with a little extra buffer time.
Will there be water available on the course?
There will be water stops set up at the 1 mile and 2 mile markers. Thank you in advance for using the trash cans for disposal.
Are dogs and strollers allowed?
While East Lake Sammamish Trail remains a public trail without restrictions, we advise against dogs and strollers due to the two-way traffic of the race route.
How long does this event last?
Our first wave is scheduled to start at 9 AM. Our last wave is scheduled to start at 9:10 AM, so long as we are fewer than 300 racers. If our registrations grow, we will add waves to ensure distancing. Please note that Walkers and Joggers/Walkers will always be moved to the last two waves, so early registrants for those waves may notice a slight 2-4 minute start time change for their wave, should the event size exceed 300. One can typically expect the last walker to cross the Finish line about one hour after they start. If you run early and need to leave the area early, the exits to the park will be open. Please do note the possibility that you will be asked to yield to crossing runners.
Are there prizes?
There will be awards for fastest time in each age division, overall fastest male/female (1st, 2nd. 3rd place), and additional raffles/prizes awarded to those who run in costume (at any speed!), so get creative!
I own a business and would love to see my logo on the back of the Monster Mash shirts and on race signage... How does that happen?
Support from our generous sponsors allow us to cover our costs and pass along more funding directly to students in our community. To learn more about Monster Mash 5K sponsorship options, please email: [email protected]
Are there volunteer opportunities available at this event?
Yes! Our event has a variety of ways for teens and adults to get involved. Please note that due to event size restrictions, we may only be able to accept small groups. To express interest in available age-appropriate opportunities, please email: [email protected]
Your registration fee, along with the generous support of our sponsors, cover the cost of permitting for our venue, timing, and other hard costs. 100% of net proceeds will go to fund resources in all 26 Issaquah School District schools in the areas of Academic Support, Basic Student Needs, Mental, Behavioral, and Emotional Support, and Enrichment Programs.
Do I have to be a runner to participate?
Not at all! All ages and participation levels are welcome. We encourage time-conscious runners who average a 5K time of 24 minutes (7:41 min/mile pace or less) to register in our Elite Runner wave, but you will note that there is a wave dedicated to walkers, walk/joggers, and general runners of all speeds.
What type of Covid-19 safety precautions are being taken?
Registration will be limited to comply with current King County Covid restrictions. The total number of persons attending MM5K, including registered racers, volunteers, and staff will not to exceed 499 persons. It is important to note that only registered Monster Mash registrants will be allowed on site because these are the numbers we are using to document persons on-site. Additionally, racers will be registered into staggered starting times with limited numbers per wave. Wave corrals will be clearly marked, distanced, and released two minutes apart from each other. Masks will be required in the areas adjacent to the Start/Finish line which include the restrooms, parking lot, and registration/packet pick-up areas, and vendor tents at Lake Sammamish State Park. Masking along the actual 5K route is encouraged, but not required. Hand sanitizer will be available at tent locations and no open snacks or candy will be distributed.
Do I have to be vaccinated to attend the Monster Mash?
No. We commit to keep the Monster Mash 5K event below 500 attendees, so you do not have to show proof of vaccination to attend. You will, however, be asked to wear a mask in all areas except the running trail. In compliance with King County Covid restrictions, we will require ALL persons on the race premises to be officially registered so we can carefully monitor the number of persons on-site. It is not an option to attend this event as a spectator of a registered participant. All who attend the Monster Mash must be able to show proof of registration, even if you choose not to run so we can account for all persons in our numbers.
Do I need to bring a mask with me?
Yes, please. While masking on the 5K run itself is optional, masks will be required in all other areas adjacent to the Start/Finish line which include the restrooms, parking lot, registration/packet pick-up area, and sponsor tents at Lake Sammamish State Park. Expected to be asked to wear a mask or to be offered one in these areas if you do not have one on - thanks for understanding!
I can't quite picture how the staging area and route will be set up. Do you have more details?
Please view this video for a preview of both Monster Mash 5K staging and route areas.
How many people are you expecting and do I have other race options?
A first-year event can be difficult to predict, especially in a year with so many variables. With this said, we are initially planning for approximately 250-300 racers from our community, with the ability to scale up, if need be. If additional registrations are added, additional waves will be added to maintain distancing, and we commit to keep the event below 500 racers. For those who prefer to run/walk indoors or within their own neighborhoods, we have a virtual race option available, and this availability is unlimited. Virtual racers will receive the same technical tee and event medal that in-person racers receive and can either pick these items up at the Foundation or pay for shipping their race swag to their home. Both in-person and virtual racers help us support the students in our community... thank you!
Is there a dedicated little kid race?
While we had originally envisioned a shorter distanced Goblin Dash race for exclusively elementary-aged kids, we feel that it is in the best interest of the kids to forego this option this year. The Monster Mash 5K is open to all ages and all fitness levels, so we welcome you to bring whomever you feel comfortable bringing! If you choose to bring smaller children, you may find that it is more comfortable to register for one of the later start times with walkers or walker/joggers. We do not recommend strollers, and please note that 5K is 3.1 Miles. We look forward to hosting a Goblin Dash next year!
What’s the parking situation?
There is plentiful on-site parking at the Lake Sammamish State Park Boat Launch. This dedicated parking area is conveniently adjacent to the Monster Mash Start/Finish line and Registration/Packet Pick Up area. Since this is a Washington State Park, a Discover Pass is required for the day. Annual and Day Discover Passes can be purchased via local vendor with a small transaction fee, purchased at a State Park kiosk, or pre-purchased with your race registration without a transaction fee. If you choose to purchase a Discover Day Pass along with your race registration, your Discover Pass will be included with your race packet. If you already have a Discover Pass, then you're all set and parking will have no cost associated with it for the race!
If you do not own a Discover Pass and do not wish to pay for a day pass, there is free parking available near the ISD Central Administration building, which is approximately 1.25 miles away. It is of note that extra time should be allotted for walking to Lake Sammamish State Park should you choose this option and that the race start will not be held late arrivals.
Click here to view a slideshow preview of the parking/registration/start/finish line area.
What’s Included?
Each registration prior to October 10th, 2021, includes a technical wicking tee in a size of your choosing and a unique event medal. Due to the pandemic-related supply chain/manufacturing delays and issues, shirts/medals for registrations after 10/10/21 are not guaranteed for race day delivery and will likley arrive in Mid-November. These items will be available for pick up at the Foundation, or via paid shipping to your home.
Costumes are encouraged. What types of costumes?
We encourage you to embrace the season and wear whatever feels festive and comfortable to you. This can be anything from a family-friendly costume to silly accessories like tutus, crazy socks, and hats, or just committing to a color palette of all orange and black. All festively dressed racers will receive a raffle ticket entry for local gift card drawings and more!
Are you accepting morning-of registrations?
As long as we haven't hit our maximum number of pre-registered racers, we intend to offer a day-of registration. Please note that there may be very limited availability for these day-of registrations since we are limiting our event size. We will post the number of remaining available registrations the night before the race on our Facebook page and main event page. Please check both prior to arriving as an unregistered racer, and arrive at least 1 hour prior to avoid day-of sell-outs and lines. Please also note the delayed delivery of race swag.
How early can I pick up my packet and swag? Can I pick up another racer's packet for them?
Packets will be available for early pick up on 10/29/21 at Plateau Runner, exact time TBA. You may pick up packets for others as well. Please bring ID (for yours) and a printed/digital registration confirmation (screenshot of the confirmation email is fine) for others that are not present. As long as we can read the name, you can have the packet! Early packet pick up is a great way to avoid the day-of lines, and we strongly suggest it. This way, you can also race in your cool Monster Mash 5K shirt if you want!
I'm new to this - how early should I plan to arrive?
This is entirely up to you, but we'd generally recommend ~45 minutes ahead of time if you are pre-registered to allow for potential lines, packet pick up (if you haven't already done so - see option to pick up early), warm up, and find your starting corral. You'll have a fresh sunrise over the lake to soak up and enjoy, which also isn't a half bad way to pass the time if you find yourself with a little extra buffer time.
Will there be water available on the course?
There will be water stops set up at the 1 mile and 2 mile markers. Thank you in advance for using the trash cans for disposal.
Are dogs and strollers allowed?
While East Lake Sammamish Trail remains a public trail without restrictions, we advise against dogs and strollers due to the two-way traffic of the race route.
How long does this event last?
Our first wave is scheduled to start at 9 AM. Our last wave is scheduled to start at 9:10 AM, so long as we are fewer than 300 racers. If our registrations grow, we will add waves to ensure distancing. Please note that Walkers and Joggers/Walkers will always be moved to the last two waves, so early registrants for those waves may notice a slight 2-4 minute start time change for their wave, should the event size exceed 300. One can typically expect the last walker to cross the Finish line about one hour after they start. If you run early and need to leave the area early, the exits to the park will be open. Please do note the possibility that you will be asked to yield to crossing runners.
Are there prizes?
There will be awards for fastest time in each age division, overall fastest male/female (1st, 2nd. 3rd place), and additional raffles/prizes awarded to those who run in costume (at any speed!), so get creative!
I own a business and would love to see my logo on the back of the Monster Mash shirts and on race signage... How does that happen?
Support from our generous sponsors allow us to cover our costs and pass along more funding directly to students in our community. To learn more about Monster Mash 5K sponsorship options, please email: [email protected]
Are there volunteer opportunities available at this event?
Yes! Our event has a variety of ways for teens and adults to get involved. Please note that due to event size restrictions, we may only be able to accept small groups. To express interest in available age-appropriate opportunities, please email: [email protected]