Samson's Revenge

Samson’s Revenge is a high-altitude trail running event held at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado. Scheduled for Saturday, May 23, 2026, the race honors the legacy of Samson, a famous local elk, by traversing the meadows and ridges his descendants still inhabit. The course features a mix of flowing single-track and a significant ascent to Bible Point, offering runners expansive views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains.

The event is hosted by Running Wild Events and integrates the facilities of the YMCA of the Rockies. Trail running in Colorado draws a diverse but distinct demographic; statistics for high-altitude trail events in the state indicate a participant base that is approximately 84% White, 7% Hispanic or Latino, 5% Asian, and 2% Black. These figures mirror broader national trends in ultramarathon and trail sports, where organizers continue to implement outreach programs to increase representation among underrepresented groups.

Event Logistics and Participant Information:

• -- Course Structure: The race utilizes a roughly 10K loop. While the initial loop establishes the course, subsequent loops for the 25K and 50K distances are slightly shorter, focusing on flowing single-track and packed dirt.
• -- Bible Point Ascent: A core challenge of the race is the climb to Bible Point, which accounts for the majority of the 1,200 feet of gain per loop.
• -- Aid Stations: Two well-stocked aid stations are provided—one at the Start/Finish line and one at the summit of Bible Point—offering water, electrolytes, and various food options.
• -- Swag and Perks: Registration includes a custom Fractel hat and wool finisher socks. Additionally, every registrant receives a $29 day pass to the YMCA of the Rockies grounds.
• -- Registration Deadlines: Online registration closes on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 11:59 PM MT. There is no mention of race-day registration, so early sign-up is encouraged.
• -- Venue Amenities: The Start/Finish line is located in front of the Administration building. Parking is plentiful in the paved lots on the YMCA grounds.

By combining rigorous elevation gain with a fast, single-track descent, Samson’s Revenge provides a quintessential Colorado trail experience for athletes of all levels.