Aspen Backcountry Marathon & Heavy Half Marathon

Saturday, August 5, 2023 Past event
9:30 AM MDT
Aspen, Colorado
$70.00–$80.00 · 2 races
Half Marathon

Event summary

Get ready for an exhilarating adventure at the Aspen Backcountry Marathon and Heavy Half Marathon on Saturday, August 5th, 2023! Set against the stunning backdrop of Aspen, Pitkin, this event promises an unforgettable experience for running enthusiasts. Participants can choose between two thrilling race distances: a full marathon or a challenging heavy half-marathon, both traversing the beautiful dirt trails that surround the area.

The course offers diverse terrain, including steep ascents and descents, providing a true test for even the most seasoned athletes. As you race, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking views of the Elk Mountains towering above and the picturesque city of Aspen below. Starting and finishing at Rio Grande Park, runners should be prepared for a cupless course, so don’t forget to bring your own cup or water bottle! With limited support along the route and an ever-changing race direction each year, the 2023 event will take participants clockwise, ascending Sunnyside and descending Smuggler. Join us for this remarkable running challenge and make memories that you’ll cherish for years to come!

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Races

  • Full Marathon

    8:30 AM MDT

    $80.00

    Entries closed
  • Heavy Half

    9:30 AM MDT

    $70.00

    Entries closed

Organiser's description

Utilizing the beautiful trails that surround Aspen, The Aspen Backcountry offers two options, a full or heavy half-marathon, both run almost exclusively on dirt trails. The diversity of terrain, challenging ascents & descents and overall elevation gain will challenge even the most well-trained athletes. With spectacular views of the Elk Mountains above and the city of Aspen below, this is one race youll be bragging about for years.

This race will be a limited support race. There will be aid stations, portable toilets at the start/finish, volunteer crews and timers. There is volunteer medical personnel along the course and at aid stations, but there is no guarantee of rescue or medical attention. Each participant is ultimately responsible for their own rescue and preparation for course and weather conditions.

Each year the race route changes direction. The 2023 route will be heading in the clockwise direction, up Sunnyside and down Smuggler. Both races start and end in Rio Grande Park. This is a running race and cut off times are enforced. This is a cupless course please bring your own cup or water bottle. No refunds or exchanges or deferment allowed.

Location

Rio Grande Park, Aspen, 81611, CO, United States

Event data

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