Aspen Backcountry Marathon
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Aspen Backcountry
Scheduled for Saturday, August 1, 2026, in Aspen, Colorado, the Aspen Backcountry runs from and returns to Rio Grande Park in Aspen. The event offers multiple trail distances that run almost exclusively on dirt trails and reach high alpine elevations.
- 50K (30.39 miles)
- Marathon (26.35 miles)
- Heavy Half-Marathon (14.64 miles)
Courses feature varied terrain with sustained ascents and descents and substantial elevation gain. Key course statistics include total elevation gain and maximum elevation that vary by distance; the 50K lists 5,512 feet of gain and a max elevation of 10,385 feet. The races are limited-support events with remote aid stations and course marking; the organizer recommends carrying the official GPX track on a personal device. Portable toilets and a medical team will be at the start and finish, and volunteer medical personnel will be available along the course, though rescue or medical attention cannot be guaranteed.
Practical details: a Pitkin County CORSAR card is required for packet pickup; drop bags are allowed at the start/finish. Parking in Aspen can be limited in summer; carpooling is suggested and public transit via the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) is available. All finishers who complete their registered course receive a commemorative award, and podium awards are given to the top three men and women in each distance.
The finish is held alongside a park festival that includes the Duck Derby, live music, food vendors, family booths and additional community activities. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
