Black Canyon Ascent

About the Event

Since 1977, the Black Canyon Ascent has been one of the most beloved races in the region and is a flagship event for the San Juan Mountain Runners.  Originally started to celebrate the rugged beauty of Montrose’s "backyard," the Ascent has evolved into an important community fundraiser. This year, proceeds will benefit the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

Pre-Race

Runners must park in Montrose at the Black Canyon Boys and Girls Club (1869 E. Main Street, Montrose) for the shuttle bus to the start line.  A post-race shuttle will return you to your car.  Look for a more detailed schedule soon!

The Course: A Climb to the Clouds! 

The Black Canyon Ascent is a 6-mile point-to-point challenge that demands respect and rewards effort. Starting at an elevation of roughly 6,500 feet, the course gains nearly 2,000 vertical feet over a steady 5-mile climb up Colorado Highway 347. Note the road is not closed, and participants must stay on the left side of the road for their safety and to allow traffic to pass.  Two aid stations along the route will help keep you hydrated.

The Surface: The entire course is run on a two-lane paved road, making it accessible for both runners and Challenge Walkers.

The "Kick": At Mile 5, you officially enter the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. As you pass the entry kiosk, the road finally levels out, offering a brief, fast downhill stretch toward the campground that will test your "jelly legs" right before the finish.

The Finish Line: You’ll finish at the South Rim’s amphitheater, surrounded by the park’s signature piñon-juniper forest and the crisp mountain air.

Post-Race

The "Ascent" is famous for its post-race atmosphere. After conquering the climb, participants gather at the park’s amphitheater to enjoy:

• An awesome breakfast burrito: A long-standing tradition of post-race fuel.
• The Views: Stick around after the race and explore the rim overlooks.  Or after catching the shuttle back to your car, drive back into the Park on your own to explore. Your race bib is your ticket for re-entry into the Park (it can also serve as a discount if you want to upgrade to a National Parks Annual Pass in the Visitors’ Center).
• Our amazing community: Whether you finish in 45 minutes or 2 hours, the camaraderie at the top is what keeps people coming back year after year.

Hang on to your race bib!  Not only does it get you back into the Park, but after taking the shuttle back to your car, your race bib is your ticket for a free beer or soda at Montrose’s Pomona Brewing Company. Just show the bartender your bib!

⚠️ CRITICAL RACE LOGISTICS ⚠️

• No Start-Line Parking: Because the race finishes inside the National Park, there is NO parking at the start line (except for volunteers).
• Runner Shuttles: A mandatory shuttle service will take you from Montrose to the start line, and bring you back down after the race.
• Drop Bags: Drop bags may be left at the start line (please label it with your bib number) and will be waiting for you at the finish line.  Clothing not claimed by the time the last shuttle departs will be donated to a local charity.  Mornings can be chilly especially when just standing around waiting for the race to start!
• Spectator Info: There is no parking at the finish line or the adjacent campground. Friends and family must park at the Tomichi Point overlook (0.5-mile hike to the finish) or the Visitor Center (1-mile hike). Note: Family and friends are responsible for their own park entrance fees.
• Camping: Park campgrounds are currently closed due to last year's fire damage. Dispersed camping is available on nearby BLM land (click here for details).