24 Hours of Palmer Lake

The 24 Hours of Palmer Lake returns to Palmer Lake, Colorado on September 26th, offering endurance runners a unique challenge in the form of a 24-hour loop course. This race takes place around the picturesque and scenic 0.82-mile track that encircles the heart of Palmer Lake, situated atop the Palmer Divide at an elevation of 7,240 feet above sea level. The event is designed to push participants' mental and physical limits while fostering a community among like-minded individuals who appreciate the beauty and solitude of mountain landscapes.
On race morning, runners will find themselves surrounded by towering peaks and sweeping vistas as they embark on their journey around Palmer Lake’s loop course. With an average temperature hovering around 15.1°C in September, participants can expect cool but comfortable conditions for running through the night and into the next day. The terrain is firm yet slightly soft underfoot, providing a challenging surface that will test both strength and endurance without compromising safety.
Over its history, the event has become an integral part of Palmer Lake’s community fabric, attracting runners who seek to challenge themselves in one of Colorado's most scenic settings. By participating, individuals not only push their personal boundaries but also contribute $5 per registration towards local park improvements managed by the Palmer Lake Parks Committee. This tradition ensures that while participants are testing their limits on a challenging course, they are also giving back to the community that supports them.
The race venue is an 0.82-mile loop track set within natural surroundings atop the Palmer Divide in Colorado at an elevation of 7,240 feet. The terrain offers runners a mix of firm and slightly soft trails along with varied elevations. Aid stations are strategically placed throughout the course to provide necessary support during this demanding endurance event.
Weather conditions on race day typically feature temperatures ranging between 7.5°C in the early morning hours and reaching up to 22.7°C by late afternoon, averaging at a comfortable 15.1°C overall. Humidity levels average around 50%, with little risk of significant rainfall during this period (only about 1.4mm expected). Runners should prepare for an environment that might feel slightly cooler than the actual temperature due to wind speeds averaging at approximately 8.8 miles per hour.
To register, visit https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=131428 where you can secure your spot for $65 with no refunds available but a credit towards next year’s event if given sufficient notice. Bib pickup will take place at the Palmer Lake Community Center on September 24th from noon to 7pm and again on race morning starting at 7am sharp, requiring participants to show proof of registration. The start location is located at 199 County Line Rd in Palmer Lake, Colorado; runners must be over the age of 16 due to safety regulations.
The 24 Hours of Palmer Lake in Palmer Lake, Colorado on September 26th offers a unique opportunity for endurance athletes to test their limits against themselves and others while contributing positively to local park improvements. The scenic backdrop and challenging course make this event worthwhile for anyone looking to push personal boundaries within the beauty of mountain landscapes.