Niwot's Challenge
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Niwot's Challenge
Niwot's Challenge is an invitation and acceptance only ultradistance event held along the South Platte River near Sedalia, Colorado. The event is presented as a navigation focused trial with an unpublished course, significant off-trail travel, minimal aid, and strong expectations of self-reliance. Field size is limited to 40 participants.
The course combines long stretches of off-trail navigation, occasional dirt road, and faint trails. Participants must visit specified Sacred Waypoints and retrieve unique codes to complete the route. GPS devices are not allowed on course; phones are permitted for emergency use only. Paper maps and compass skills are required for the Traditional format, and following another registered participant who can navigate is permitted.
The event defines distinct completion options with specified distances, elevation, and time limits:
- Burn Loop: ~24 miles, +10,000' / -10,000', 16 hour limit.
- Chief's Fun Run: ~50 miles, +20,400' / -20,400', 30 hour limit.
- Deity Status: ~100 miles, +40,800' / -40,800', 60 hour limit.
Aid is minimal; participants are expected to carry mandatory gear including a course map, whistle, emergency blanket or bivy, headlamp or flashlight, at least 2 liters of liquids, a light jacket, and sufficient calories for 12 hours. Entry fee is free with an encouraged donation. An online group hub provides official updates and event communications. Historical totals and success rates are tracked by the organizers. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
