Ocolo 69
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
OCOLO 69 : Nederland, Colorado
OCOLO 69 is a three-loop mountain event based at the Moffat Tunnel East Portal near Nederland, Colorado. The course covers 69 miles (+/-) across three loops of about 23 miles each, with total elevation gain of 18,099 ft. Each loop climbs roughly 6,000 ft and passes a high point of over 13,300 ft. The route starts above 9,000 ft and includes exposed ridgelines and alpine terrain.
Participants choose one category: Runner (no required weight), Light (10 lbs dry) or Heavy (25 lbs dry). Required Light and Heavy weight must be carried dry in a ruck; weighted vests, sandbags or disposable items are not permitted. Mandatory equipment is checked before the start.
Timing and awards are defined by two targets: a Pass for completing all three loops within 36 hours, and a Dog Tag for completing all three loops within 34 hours. Competitors who wish to earn the Dog Tag must record and prove at least 65 miles by GPS. Additional awards include gendered Heavy and combined Runner/Light winner recognitions that require Dog Tag time performances.
Navigation uses an AllTrails route for offline use, as cell service is limited. Runners must report to HQ from three mandatory locations each loop—ARAPAHO (about mile 3.5), SPIRIT (about mile 12.5) and JAMES (about mile 17, the high point). HQ serves as the start and finish area where participants may eat, change, rest or sleep between loops while the clock continues to run.
Mandatory kit includes at least 3 liters water capacity, a working satellite communication device or beacon, sufficient battery power for navigation and communication, and high-altitude warm layers. A personal medical kit is required and medical conditions must be disclosed to event staff. Water refill is available at about mile 16 of each loop and at HQ. Minimum emergency rations are three bars and 0.5 L water.
The event emphasizes altitude and weather risks; symptoms of altitude illness, lightning risk on exposed terrain, and the potential for delayed extraction from high-altitude terrain are noted. Cancellations are issued as GBF vouchers when requested 60 or more days before the event. Ticket pricing increases over time, beginning at $249 and rising to $375 by July 1, 2027. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
