10K & 5K @ 10,000 Feet
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10K & 5K @ 10,000 Feet : Vail Recreation District
The Vail Trail Running Series event on July 18, 2026 takes place on Vail Mountain with the race start at Mid-Vail. Participants ride Gondola One to access the start; racer bibs serve as lift tickets and dogs are not allowed on the gondola. The 5K and 10K courses were rerouted for 2026 and run across Vail Mountain terrain, including Game Creek Bowl and Wildwood.
Course statistics from the event GPX file note the following characteristics and high points. Running surfaces mix gravel road and singletrack, and both routes stay above 10,150 feet.
- 10K - approximately 9.5 km, 925 ft elevation gain, high point 10,977 ft
- 5K - approximately 5 km, 488 ft elevation gain, high point 10,562 ft
Water is available at all aid stations and Skratch Hydration Sport Drink is provided. The series emphasizes minimal waste and encourages reusable hydration devices or cups. At the finish there are donuts and fresh fruit provided by a local vendor, plus race t-shirts and age-group awards for top finishers in male and female categories. All racers are entered into a sponsor raffle and winners must be present to claim prizes. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
