Aspen Backcountry Marathon
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Event
The Aspen Backcountry takes place in Aspen, Colorado on Saturday, August 1, 2026. The event offers three distances: a 50K, a marathon and a heavy half-marathon. The start and finish are at Rio Grande Park. Registration for the event closes on Monday, July 27, 2026.
Course and race details
All distances run almost exclusively on dirt trails around Aspen and include significant elevation change and alpine terrain. Key course statistics published by the organizer:
- 50K - 30.39 miles; 5,512 feet total elevation gain; max elevation 10,385 feet.
- Marathon - 26.35 miles; 4,764 feet total elevation gain; max elevation 10,090 feet.
- Heavy Half-Marathon - 14.64 miles; 3,169 feet total elevation gain; max elevation 10,090 feet.
The races are limited-support with remote aid stations and course markings. Portable toilets and a medical team are provided at the start/finish. Volunteers staff some aid stations and provide on-course medical presence, but there is no guaranteed rescue service; participants are responsible for their own preparation.
Logistics and support
Pitkin County requires a valid CORSAR card for packet pickup. Drop bags are allowed at the start/finish. Parking in Aspen can be limited during summer; the organizer suggests carpooling and notes a nearby fee-based Rio Grande Parking garage. The finish area coincides with the Duck Derby festival in Rio Grande Park, which includes live music, food vendors, booths and other family activities. All finishers receive a commemorative award; podium awards are given to the top three male and female finishers in each distance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
