Pilot Hill 25k

The Pilot Hill 25K, the oldest continuously run footrace in Wyoming, takes place on Saturday, 30 May 2026 starting at 7:00 AM from 3500 E Willett Drive, Laramie, Wyoming. This event also offers a 10K option. The race has roots dating back to the 1970s when local runners and university cross country team members began their summer training by racing from Laramie to the top of Pilot Hill and back down. Registration opens on 1 February 2026, and there is NO race day registration.

The Pilot Hill 25K holds true to its roots as a "down home" race that celebrates the sport of trail running without breaking the bank. The course runs on rugged two-track and single-track trails, crossing sandy flats, rolling over low-grade hills, and climbing up (and descending) gnarly weathered limestone. The summit of Pilot Hill at 8,600 feet is one of the highest points in the Sherman Mountains of the Laramie Range, offering sweeping views of the Laramie Valley, the Snowy Range of the Medicine Bow Mountains, and Colorado's Rawahs and Front Range.

This is a cupless race. Runners must bring their own bottle, cup, or water bladder, as no cups will be available at aid stations. This policy helps keep the trails clean. Aid stations for the 25K are located at 3.7 miles (water and Skratch only) and at the Pilot Hill summit (water, Skratch, and snacks). Runners pass the water-only station a second time at mile 12.6. The 10K has one aid station around the 5K mark.

The course will be adequately marked with neon pin flags along the trail and visible directional signage at trail intersections. However, it is each runner's responsibility to know the course. All participants should review the course map ahead of time, available via Google Maps and All Trails.

Registration pricing for the 25K is as follows: by 30 April 2026, $45; from 1 May to 24 May 2026, $55; from 25 May to 29 May 2026 (week of race), $65. The 10K is priced at $35. Partner Club members receive $5 off. Proceeds from the event are donated to Pilot Hill Inc.

Cash prizes include a $50 "Speedgoat" award for the first male and first female 25K runner to reach the top aid station, plus a $50 cash prize for the first overall male and first overall female 25K finisher. Age group awards for the 25K go to the top three male and female runners in three categories: 0–34, 35–49, and 50+. The 10K offers awards for the top three male and female runners. A prize is also given to the final finisher in each race. Awards and recovery, hosted by Snowy Range Physical Therapy and Wellness, follow the race.

The Pilot Hill race is dog-friendly, but organizers strongly advise considering the distance and conditions before bringing a dog. The 25K course is long, steep, exposed, without shade or water. The 10K course is exposed, with the majority requiring a leash. Leashes are required with no exceptions on Jacoby Ridge Trail, Doctor's Order (Trail 1), Janey's Trail, and the Wildlife Habitat Management Area. Dogs must be on a leash or well-behaved on course. Owners must bag and remove pet waste. Water and aid station provisions are for registered racers only—plan accordingly for your dog. Organizers reserve the right to adjust the dog policy at any time.

No official race photos will be taken, but cell phone shots will be captured along the way. A link to race photos will be emailed to registrants after the event. Runners are encouraged to bring a camp chair to relax at the finish line, where food and refreshments will be available.

Proceeds support Pilot Hill Inc., a project building a world-class recreation and wildlife habitat area that ensures quality of life, pure drinking water, and economic vitality for Albany County families. Funds help provide outdoor recreation access for all ages and abilities, accessible educational and research locations, protection of the Casper aquifer from contamination, conservation of critical winter range for resident elk, moose, pronghorn antelope, and mule deer, and economic diversification for the region.

Detailed directions to the start line are available at https://pilothill.org/access-the-property/. The race starts at the east end of Willett Drive. For more things to do in Laramie after the race, visit https://www.visitlaramie.org/. Questions can be directed to Race Director Alexander Hancock at [email protected].

The Pilot Hill 25K and 10K celebrate decades of Wyoming trail running tradition. Register between 1 February and 29 May 2026 to experience one of the highest points in the Sherman Mountains and support a project that protects land, water, and wildlife for generations to come.