RacesReviewed / Top 25

Top 25 Races in Colorado

Colorado is America's premier mountain running state, home to Hardrock 100, the Leadville Trail 100, and the Pikes Peak Marathon. But it also delivers spectacular road marathons in Denver, Boulder, and along the Front Range. This list balances Colorado's legendary high-altitude ultras with its outstanding road racing scene.

Colorado has the most stacked ultra/trail scene per capita of any state. Hardrock and Leadville are bucket-list races for runners worldwide. Pikes Peak is a unique American asset — both the Ascent and the Marathon are iconic. Road racing on the Front Range is equally strong, with the Denver Marathon and Colorado Marathon both delivering high-quality, scenic courses.

Ranked races

25Curated selection of Colorado's premier racing events.

Race types

Road, Trail, UltraFrom 14,000-foot summits to high desert mesas.

Signature event

Hardrock 100One of America's most legendary 100-mile races, through the San Juan Mountains.

How we ranked these races

What went into the selection

Field Size

How many runners typically participate — larger fields mean broader appeal and community impact.

Longevity & Prestige

How long the event has been running and its standing in the regional/national running community.

Course Quality

Scenery, variety, surface, and how well the course is marked and supported.

Runner Experience

Aid stations, swag, post-race amenities, communication, and overall runner satisfaction.

Notable Features

Unique elements that make the race memorable — historic venues, iconic finishes, or scenic locations.

Full ranked list

All 25 races ranked

25 visible
#1

Hardrock 100

Silverton, CO

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The Hardrock 100 is one of America's most legendary 100-mile endurance runs, completing a stunning loop through Colorado's San Juan Mountains from Silverton. With over 100,000 feet of climbing and altitudes exceeding 14,000 feet, this iconic race attracts the most competitive ultrarunning field in the country. A bucket-list event for serious mountain runners seeking the ultimate test of endurance and grit.

Hardrock 100 Endurance Run100 MileSummer
Silverton to Silverton — 100 miles through the San Juan Mountains100,000+ ft of climbingAltitude above 14,000 ft
  • Silverton to Silverton — 100 miles through the San Juan Mountains
  • 100,000+ ft of climbing
  • Altitude above 14,000 ft
  • Most competitive field in American ultras

#2
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The Leadville Trail 100 Run is America's oldest and highest 100-mile ultramarathon, where runners literally race across the sky reaching 12,600 feet at the legendary Hope Pass. This historic 'Race Across the Sky' demands serious endurance and requires qualifying standards for entry, attracting only the most dedicated ultrarunners. Set in Colorado's historic mining town at extreme altitude, it's the ultimate test for mountain runners seeking to conquer one of the world's most legendary 100-milers.

Leadville Race Series100 MileSummer
Race across the sky — 12,600 ft at Hope PassAmerica's oldest 100-milerMandatory qualifying standards
#3

Pikes Peak Marathon

Manitou Springs, CO

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Experience the ultimate mountain running challenge at the Pikes Peak Marathon, where you'll climb from Manitou Springs to the awe-inspiring 14,110-foot summit of Pikes Peak. As one of America's oldest mountain marathons since 1956, this grueling race tests runners with brutal altitude, steep grades, and relentless vertical gain. Not for the faint of heart, this iconic event is reserved for experienced mountain runners ready to conquer one of the most legendary endurance events in the world.

Pikes Peak MarathonMarathonSummer
Summit of Pikes Peak — 14,110 ftOne of America's oldest mountain marathons (1956)Brutal altitude and steep grades
#4

Pikes Peak Ascent

Manitou Springs, CO

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Experience the ultimate test of endurance on the Pikes Peak Ascent—the world's most iconic uphill race. This legendary half marathon climbs 13.3 miles straight up Pikes Peak, ascending from 6,300 feet to the breathtaking 14,110-foot summit. Whether you're an elite mountain runner or a determined amateur, this bucket-list race delivers an unforgettable challenge.

Pikes Peak MarathonHalf Marathon (Ascent)Summer
Straight up Pikes Peak — 14,110 ft in ~13.3 milesOne of America's oldest uphill racesWorld-class elite field
#5
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Run through America's running capital with the iconic Flatirons and Colorado mountains as your backdrop during the Boulderthon Marathon. This October race captures the heart of Boulder — a city renowned for its legendary running culture, scenic trails, and fitness-focused community. Whether you're chasing a personal best or soaking in the mountain views, Boulderthon delivers an unforgettable marathon experience through one of America's most scenic cities.

BoulderthonMarathonFall
Boulder — America's running capitalFlat lands, mountain viewsOctober timing
#6

Colorado Marathon

Fort Collins, CO

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Colorado's original road marathon takes runners on a scenic 26.2-mile journey from Fort Collins to Greeley along the beautiful Poudre River. With a net 300-foot downhill course and ideal May timing, this race is perfect for runners seeking a fast, picturesque marathon or a Boston qualifier. The stunning spring scenery and downhill advantage make this Colorado classic a must-run for any serious marathoner.

Colorado MarathonMarathonSpring
Net downhill — Fort Collins to GreeleyColorado's original big-city marathonMay timing — ideal spring weather
#7
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Experience Colorado's premier point-to-point mountain run on the Imogene Pass Run 2024, a breathtaking 17.1-mile journey from Telluride to Ouray crossing the stunning 13,114-foot Imogene Pass. This sold-out annual event showcases the raw beauty of the San Juan Mountains while challenging runners with altitude, technical terrain, and unforgettable alpine vistas. Whether you're an experienced mountain runner seeking elevation glory or a trail enthusiast chasing bucket-list adventures, Imogene delivers an iconic Rocky Mountain experience.

Imogene Pass Run17.1 MileFall
Telluride to Ouray — 17.1 miles over Imogene Pass (13,114 ft)Spectacular San Juan Mountain scenery~1,550 runners — sold out annually
#8
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This marathon in Leadville, CO, organized by Leadville Race Series, the leadville trail marathon shares the leadville race. It's a solid choice for runners of all levels looking for a marathon in the Leadville, CO area.

Leadville Race SeriesMarathonSummer
Leadville's little brother raceHigh altitude — above 10,000 ft throughoutJuly timing
#9
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Tackle one of America's most challenging marathons from America's highest incorporated city at 9,318 feet! The Silverton Alpine Marathon sweeps runners through the rugged San Juan Mountains on technical alpine trails in August, offering breathtaking high-altitude scenery and serious altitude training for experienced runners seeking a bucket-list mountain race.

Silverton Alpine MarathonMarathonSummer
High altitude — Silverton is at 9,318 ftAlpine terrain, technical trailsAugust timing
#10

Steamboat Marathon

Steamboat Springs, CO

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This marathon in Steamboat Springs, CO combines competitive racing with scenic views, featuring point-to-point through routt county national forest outside steamboat springs — beautiful mountain marathon with yampa river valley views. It's a solid choice for runners of all levels looking for a marathon in the Steamboat Springs, CO area.

Steamboat MarathonMarathonSummer
Point-to-point — Routt County forestYampa River Valley views~1,200 ft net downhill
#11
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Run the Breckenridge Road Marathon through Colorado's historic gold-mining streets at 9,600 feet of elevation. This summer mountain marathon combines the challenge of high-altitude running with breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains in a world-famous resort town. Perfect for experienced marathoners seeking an unforgettable scenic challenge.

Breckenridge Road MarathonMarathonSummer
Breckenridge — world-class ski resort townHigh altitude at 9,600 ftSummer timing — perfect mountain weather
#12

Rim Rock Marathon

Grand Junction, CO

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The Rim Rock Marathon takes runners through the breathtaking Colorado National Monument, where towering red rock formations and sweeping canyon vistas create an unforgettable racing experience. This October event combines challenging rimrock terrain with the warm glow of fall colors, making it perfect for experienced marathoners seeking scenic beauty and a true test of endurance. The dramatic canyon country and panoramic rim views transform every mile into a visual masterpiece.

Rim Rock MarathonMarathonFall
Colorado National Monument — dramatic canyon countryRim views, red rock formationsOctober timing
#13

Colfax Marathon

Denver, CO

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The Colfax Marathon traces the length of America's longest commercial street, running from Aurora to Denver along the iconic Colfax Avenue. Runners experience Denver's most famous landmarks, scenic parks, and beautiful lakes during this unique May race. Perfect for runners seeking an unforgettable urban marathon that showcases the Mile High City from end to end.

Colfax MarathonMarathonSpring
Denver's Colfax Avenue — America's longest commercial streetCity landmarks, parks, lakesHalf marathon and 5K options
#14
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The Aspen Valley Marathon takes runners through the breathtaking Roaring Fork Valley with iconic views of the Maroon Bells—one of Colorado's most photographed peaks. This small-field race offers an intimate, world-class mountain running experience through the heart of Aspen's stunning alpine landscape. Perfect for runners seeking uncrowded trails and jaw-dropping scenery, this race showcases the best of Colorado's mountain beauty.

Aspen Valley MarathonMarathonSummer
Aspen — world-famous resort townMaroon Bells viewsRoaring Fork Valley
#15

Run Through Time Marathon

Crested Butte, CO

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Run through time and wildflowers on this unforgettable Colorado marathon through Crested Butte, the state's wildflower capital. Every July, historic mining town trails transform into a breathtaking canvas of columbine and alpine blooms, creating a bucket-list running experience for those who want their marathon to be as scenic as it is challenging. This is mountain racing at its most beautiful, where every mile feels like running through a postcard.

Run Through TimeMarathonSummer
Crested Butte — wildflower capital of ColoradoHistoric mining townUltra-pretty wildflower meadows
#16
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The Mt. Sneffels Marathon delivers an unforgettable technical mountain running experience beneath the awe-inspiring shadow of Colorado's iconic 14,150-foot Mt. Sneffels. This challenging high-country marathon showcases Telluride's most dramatic alpine scenery across rugged terrain that rewards experienced mountain runners with views most people never see. Whether you're chasing altitude PRs or seeking the ultimate Colorado bucket-list race, the Mt. Sneffels Marathon offers a truly legendary high-mountain challenge.

Mt. Sneffels MarathonMarathonSummer
Mt. Sneffels (14,150 ft) as backdropTelluride area high countryTechnical mountain terrain
#17

Durango Marathon

Durango, CO

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Run the Durango Marathon through Colorado's stunning Animas River Valley, where golden aspens paint the historic railroad town in brilliant fall colors. This October marathon combines high desert trails with mountain terrain for an unforgettable Rocky Mountain experience that draws runners seeking scenic beauty and challenge.

Durango MarathonMarathonFall
Durango — historic railroad townAnimas River ValleyHigh desert and mountain terrain mix
#18
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Experience the ultimate Colorado mountain marathon without the long drive. The Staunton Rocks! Marathon winds through Staunton State Park's stunning forest trails and granite rock formations, offering runners spectacular Rocky Mountain scenery just minutes from Denver. This trail marathon is perfect for runners seeking challenging terrain with breathtaking views.

Staunton Rocks! MarathonMarathonFall
Staunton State Park — near DenverTrails through forest and rock formationsClose to the city, deep in the mountains
#19

Blue Sky Trail Marathon

Fort Collins, CO

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The Blue Sky Trail Marathon winds through Fort Collins' most breathtaking landscapes, where runners traverse single-track paths through rolling prairie, dense forest, and along the scenic foothills. As Fort Collins' premier trail marathon, this race offers 800 runners an unforgettable journey through Colorado's natural beauty. Whether you're a seasoned trail runner or seeking your first marathon, the Blue Sky Trail's stunning terrain and welcoming atmosphere create an experience unlike any other.

Blue Sky Trail MarathonMarathonSummer
Blue Sky Trail — Fort Collins natural areas800 runners in half + fullSingle-track trails, prairie, and forest
#20
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The Telluride Mountain Run takes runners on an unforgettable 24-mile journey through one of America's most spectacular mountain landscapes. This August event traverses high country singletrack surrounding the famous historic mining town, offering breathtaking alpine scenery and a true test of endurance at elevation. Perfect for experienced trail runners ready to conquer Colorado's legendary mountain terrain.

Telluride Mountain Run24 MileSummer
Telluride — one of America's most scenic towns24 miles of high country singletrackAugust timing
#21
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Test your limits on the historic Silver Rush mining trail at over 10,000 feet of elevation. This 50-mile endurance challenge through Colorado's legendary Leadville Race Series pushes runners to their absolute max as you climb to nearly 12,000 feet at the midway point. If you're seeking a true high-altitude test of physical and mental fortitude, this rugged mountain race delivers an unforgettably brutal experience.

Leadville Race Series50 MileSummer
Leadville Race Series — high altitude 50-milerSilver Rush historic mining territory11,780 ft at midway
#22

Pikes Peak Ultra

Manitou Springs, CO

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Conquer Pikes Peak's legendary slopes at ultra distance with the Pikes Peak Ultra, offering 20K, 50K, and 100-mile options around the iconic Pikes Peak Massif. This August event delivers extraordinary alpine scenery and extreme mountain running challenge for experienced ultrarunners seeking the ultimate Colorado endurance test. With options ranging from challenging 20K to grueling 100 miles, this race is built for athletes who want to push their limits in one of America's most storied mountain running destinations.

Pikes Peak MarathonUltra (20K/50K/100M)Summer
The Pikes Peak Massif — ultra distances20K, 50K, and 100M optionsAugust timing
#23
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Test your limits on the technical Front Range trails surrounding Horsetooth Reservoir in this iconic September trail race. The Quad Rock 50 Mile combines punishing climbs with breathtaking panoramic ridgelines, offering true Colorado mountain running through rugged terrain. With 450 runners across both distance options, this endurance test has become a bucket-list event for serious trail runners seeking authentic Rocky Mountain challenges.

Quad Rock50 MileFall
Horsetooth Reservoir area — Fort Collins25-mile and 50-mile options450 runners across both distances
#24
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The Never Summer 100K threads the Continental Divide near Grand Lake, Colorado, delivering an untamed mountain ultra experience through alpine lakes, high tundra, and rugged technical terrain. With only ~625 runners on course, this intimate field tackles one of Colorado's most remote high-altitude environments—a true test for those seeking wilderness solitude and epic alpine beauty.

Never Summer 100100KSummer
Never Summer Mountains — Continental Divide territory100K and 60K optionsAlpine lakes, tundra, and technical terrain
#25
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Run through the extraordinary landscape of Mesa Verde National Park on this unique 12-hour timed event, where ancient Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings stand as silent witnesses to your endurance journey. Challenge yourself on high desert mesa terrain as you test how far you can go in 12 hours in one of America's most culturally and naturally significant landscapes. Perfect for ultra runners seeking a one-of-a-kind running experience that combines historical wonder with serious endurance testing.

12 Hours of Mesa VerdeTimed Event (12 Hours)Fall
Mesa Verde National Park — ancient cliff dwellingsTimed event — how far can you go in 12 hours?Mesa terrain, high desert
Top 25 Races in Colorado | RacesReviewed