Aspen Backcountry Marathon
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Event Overview
The Aspen Backcountry is a trail running event held in Aspen, Colorado. It takes place at Rio Grande Park and uses the surrounding trails. The event offers three distances: a 50K, a marathon, and a half marathon described as a "heavy" distance. The courses are almost exclusively on dirt trails. In 2025, a new 50K distance was introduced which follows the marathon route and includes an out-and-back to the McNamara Hut, part of the 10th Mountain Hut System.
Course Details
The courses offer diverse terrain and significant elevation gain, with views of the Elk Mountains and the city of Aspen below. The event is a limited-support race with remote aid stations and course markings. A GPX track is recommended for navigation. All finishers receive a commemorative award, and podium awards are given to the top three male and female finishers in each distance.
Distances:
- 50K (30.39 miles, 5,512 ft elevation gain)
- Marathon (26.35 miles, 4,764 ft elevation gain)
- Heavy Half Marathon (14.64 miles, 3,169 ft elevation gain)
A Pitkin County CORSAR card or valid Colorado hunting/fishing license is required for all participants on race day.
Festival and Logistics
The event is held on the same day as the Rotary Club's Duck Derby festival in Rio Grande Park. The family-friendly festival includes live music, food trucks, beverages, and activities. Parking in Aspen can be challenging during the summer season; carpooling is suggested. The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) bus service is an available transport option. Parking is available at the Rio Grande Parking garage for a fee. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
