Collegiate Peaks Trail Run

The Collegiate Peaks Trail Run returns on Saturday, May 2, 2026, marking its 36th year as one of Colorado's most revered trail running events. This long-standing race is deeply embedded within the local trail community and has become a cornerstone event in Buena Vista, known for its challenging high-altitude terrain and stunning scenery.
The race starts from the Buena Vista Community Center, serving both as the registration hub and finish line venue. Participants can look forward to an elevation profile that begins around 8,000 feet above sea level, offering a mix of technical single-track trails and rugged jeep paths. The course winds through sections of the historic Midland Railroad path north and east of Buena Vista, providing runners with a unique journey across diverse landscapes.
For those tackling the full distance, the 50 Miler begins at 6:30 AM, offering an unparalleled adventure that includes both clockwise and counter-clockwise loops. The course record for this grueling route has stood since 2012, set by Marshall Thomson with a time of 6 hours, 35 minutes, and 28 seconds. A more moderate option is the 25 Miler starting at 6:45 AM, which covers single-loop clockwise terrain.
The race's high-altitude setting presents both challenges and rewards. Temperatures can be unpredictable in early May; while daytime highs average around 16°C (61°F), mornings are often below freezing with lingering snow or spring mud on the higher sections of jeep trails. This makes it essential for runners to prepare not only physically but also mentally, as they navigate the rolling terrain and varied weather conditions.
Registration closes on April 23, leaving a short window for participants to secure their spots in this historic race. The Collegiate Peaks Trail Run remains a significant test of endurance, demanding that runners manage both physical exertion at high altitudes and mental fortitude over challenging landscapes.