Pikes Peak Ascent
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Pikes Peak Ascent
The Pikes Peak Ascent is a 13.3 mile race from Manitou Springs, Colorado to the 14,115 foot summit of Pikes Peak. The course follows the historic Barr Trail and gains approximately 7,800 feet of elevation. The route begins in downtown Manitou Springs with about 1.5 miles on road before joining Barr Trail, which averages an 11% grade and passes through pine and aspen forests before rising above tree line to alpine views.
The 2026 event is scheduled for September 19, 2026. Elite competitors are invited and cash prizes are offered; past winners receive free entries. Entry limits are set by the Pike National Forest and runners must be at least 16 years old to register. The top 90 men and top 90 women are placed in the first starting wave; subsequent waves are assigned based on an estimated ascent time that organizers calculate from submitted race results. Qualifiers are not required for registration.
For wave placement runners may submit verified results including a self timed 10 mile run completed on or after January 1, 2025, sanctioned events, or recent Pikes Peak finishes. General registration for 2026 opens March 1, 2026 and uses tiered fees with listed price increases on April 1 and July 1. Deferred entry and race insurance policies are described by the organizer. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
