The North Fork 50 Mile and 50K takes place on Saturday, 30 May 2026 at 18050 South Buffalo Creek Road, Buffalo Creek, Colorado. This gem of an ultramarathon is located just southwest of Denver, featuring a course that is 100% soft surface, made up almost entirely of incredible singletrack trails with only a few short sections of double track road. Registration closes on Monday, 25 May 2026 at 11:59 PM MT.
| Distance | Start Time | Course Surface | Terrain Highlights | Beneficiary | Organizer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 Miler | 6:00 AM | 100% soft surface (singletrack + short double track) | Open burn areas (1996 fire), ponderosa pines, towering granite rock formations | North Fork Volunteer Fire Department | Aravaipa Running |
| 50K | 7:00 AM | 100% soft surface (singletrack + short double track) | Open burn areas (1996 fire), ponderosa pines, towering granite rock formations | North Fork Volunteer Fire Department | Aravaipa Running |
The North Fork course excites the senses and challenges the mettle of every runner. Participants climb through open burn areas from a 1996 fire, then dive back into beautiful ponderosa pines and wind around towering granite rock formations. The 100% soft surface terrain makes this race a favorite among ultrarunners seeking a true Colorado mountain experience without pavement or hard-packed roads.
A portion of race proceeds goes to the North Fork Volunteer Fire Department, which supports and serves the local community. Volunteers are welcome and can sign up through the event page.
Results from previous editions are available dating back to 2010, with consistent participation across the 50 Mile and 50K distances. The event is organized by Aravaipa Running, known for producing high-quality trail races across the southwestern United States.
The North Fork 50 Mile and 50K offers runners a chance to experience Colorado's front range wilderness at its finest. Whether tackling the 50 Miler starting at 6:00 AM or the 50K beginning at 7:00 AM, participants will find challenging climbs, rewarding descents, and stunning views around every turn. Register before 25 May 2026 at 11:59 PM MT to secure your spot on these incredible singletrack trails.
May 30, 2026
Distance — 80.5K
Type — Running
06:00
$200.00
May 30, 2026
Distance — 50K
Type — Running
07:00
$180.00
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for May in Buffalo Creek.
Learn more about the host city, Buffalo Creek.
Buffalo Creek is an unincorporated community and U.S. Post Office in Jefferson County, Colorado, United States. The ZIP Code of the Buffalo Creek Post Office is 80425.
Read more launchWatch highlights and course previews from previous years.
Read what other athletes have to say about their experience at the North Fork 50 Mile/50K Trail Race.
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