Imperial Challenge
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Imperial Challenge
The Imperial Challenge is a springtime race in Breckenridge that moves from town to peak. Competitors travel from the Breckenridge Recreation Center to the base of Peak 7, transition to uphill gear, climb to the top of Peak 8 at 12,987' and then descend to a finish near the pool area of the Grand Lodge Peak 7. The full route is about 9.2 mi with roughly 2,246 ft of elevation gain; the first section from the recreation center to the resort base is about 6.0 miles on mostly dirt road via County Road 3.
The event offers multiple competition categories including Runners, SkiMo, Retro Open, Heavy Metal Rec Open, Splitboard/Snowboard, Team Relay and Team Duo. Retro Open preserves the tradition of pedaling with all uphill and downhill gear. Team Relay splits the course between teammates while Team Duo requires both teammates to finish together.
Registration for 2026 lists entry fees of $65 for solo categories, $90 for Team Relay and $110 for Team Duo. Online and same day registration options are offered and packet pickup is handled at the Breckenridge Recreation Center. Gear drop off and the transition area are located beneath the Peak 7 Gondola at Crystal Peak Lodge; space is limited and some bike racks are first come first served. Helmets are mandatory for cyclists during the bike portion. Results and award placements are recorded by category with top finishers recognized overall. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
