West Elk Challenge
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About the race
The West Elk Challenge is a point-to-point trail marathon with a 30K option through the North Fork Valley of western Colorado on Saturday, October 3, 2026. The event takes place at peak fall color and follows backcountry roads and forest trails into the Gunnison National Forest.
- 26.2 miles marathon starting at Crawford State Park
- 30K starting near Needle Rock
The full marathon climbs over 4,000 feet to Inter-Ocean Pass (9,762 ft) on Mt. Lamborn, then descends through spruce, aspen, and oak forest toward the Town of Paonia. Most of the route is on gravel roads and singletrack with a few paved miles at the beginning and end. Aid stations are located at roughly miles 7, 11, 15 (summit), 19, and 22, and provide water, snacks, first aid, and volunteers. West Elk Mountain Rescue supports the event. Organizers set a cutoff at the mile 11 aid station to ensure participants are out of the backcountry by sunset; participants are responsible for their own safety and preparedness. Those who expect a pace of about 20 minutes per mile or slower are advised to choose the 30K.
Packets may be picked up Friday, October 2 at Paonia Town Park Teen Center or on race morning at the Crawford State Park starting area. Shuttle buses run between Paonia Town Park and Crawford State Park. Camping options include Iron Creek at Crawford State Park with 45 walk-in sites, Crawford State Park Clear Fork reservations, and Big B’s Delicious Orchards. Approximate drive times: Hotchkiss to Crawford 20 minutes, Paonia to Crawford 30 minutes, Hotchkiss to Paonia 15 minutes.
One hundred percent of proceeds fund scholarships for Nature Connection summer camps, with a fundraising goal of $25,000. Early October mountain weather can change quickly. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.