Powderhorn Ultra and Vert Challenge

From Becoming Ultra
- Date Sat 19th July 2025
- Time 6:00AM EDT
- Location Mesa
- Price Free
- Races 1 race
Event summary
Get ready for an exhilarating day of endurance and adventure at the Powderhorn Ultra and Vert Challenge, hosted by Becoming Ultra on Saturday, July 19, 2025, in the stunning Mesa, Colorado. This unique race invites participants to experience the breathtaking scenery of Grand Mesa while testing their limits with a choice of 12-hour and 6-hour race formats, as well as a thrilling vertical challenge.
Set against the backdrop of Powderhorn Mountain, runners will tackle a nearly 10k loop that ascends approximately 1,546 feet with each lap. As you navigate through picturesque aspen groves and serene mountain meadows, you'll find plenty of support with fully stocked aid stations and enthusiastic volunteers cheering you on. For those who crave a true uphill challenge, the Vertical Challenge allows you to ascend as many times as possible, collecting elevation while enjoying the rush of the climb. Plus, the Grand Junction Sports Commission will be hosting their 5k and 15k races on the same day, creating an electrifying atmosphere for all participants. Don’t miss this opportunity to test your endurance, connect with fellow runners, and celebrate the spirit of adventure!
Set against the backdrop of Powderhorn Mountain, runners will tackle a nearly 10k loop that ascends approximately 1,546 feet with each lap. As you navigate through picturesque aspen groves and serene mountain meadows, you'll find plenty of support with fully stocked aid stations and enthusiastic volunteers cheering you on. For those who crave a true uphill challenge, the Vertical Challenge allows you to ascend as many times as possible, collecting elevation while enjoying the rush of the climb. Plus, the Grand Junction Sports Commission will be hosting their 5k and 15k races on the same day, creating an electrifying atmosphere for all participants. Don’t miss this opportunity to test your endurance, connect with fellow runners, and celebrate the spirit of adventure!
Powderhorn Ultra and Vert Challenge
Sat 19th July 2025

Organiser's Description
Come to the untapped Grand Mesa in Western Colorado to test your self with our 12hr, 6hr, and vertical challenge runs!
The race begins at the base of Powderhorn mountain and winds its way through aspen, evergreen, and mountain meadows to the top. You will gain about 1500’ of vertical for every lap. Each lap is almost exactly 10k. With an aid station at the top and fully stocked aid, crew, music, and more at the bottom. We want to create an experience where route finding and long stretches between aid stations aren’t an issue and you can find energy from volunteers and other runners for the whole day! We are partnering with Grand Junction Sports Commission who will have their 5k and 15k on the same day! The map is from their first year and we love the route!
The Loop Course
Test your stamina on a 10K loop that starts and finishes at the base of the resort. Each loop has 1,546 feet of elevation gain, taking you from an altitude of 8,287 feet to 9,839 feet at the peak. Get ready to crush multiple laps, and see just how far you can go in 12 hours. It’s a true test of endurance and strategy, with each climb more rewarding than the last.
The Vertical Challenge
How much vertical can you handle? This option is designed for those who live for the uphill grind. Ascend from the base to the summit as many times as possible—then take the chairlift back down. It’s pure elevation gain, all day long. With 1,546 feet of climbing per ascent, this challenge is perfect for runners who love pushing limits and collecting serious vertical.
The race begins at the base of Powderhorn mountain and winds its way through aspen, evergreen, and mountain meadows to the top. You will gain about 1500’ of vertical for every lap. Each lap is almost exactly 10k. With an aid station at the top and fully stocked aid, crew, music, and more at the bottom. We want to create an experience where route finding and long stretches between aid stations aren’t an issue and you can find energy from volunteers and other runners for the whole day! We are partnering with Grand Junction Sports Commission who will have their 5k and 15k on the same day! The map is from their first year and we love the route!
The Loop Course
Test your stamina on a 10K loop that starts and finishes at the base of the resort. Each loop has 1,546 feet of elevation gain, taking you from an altitude of 8,287 feet to 9,839 feet at the peak. Get ready to crush multiple laps, and see just how far you can go in 12 hours. It’s a true test of endurance and strategy, with each climb more rewarding than the last.
The Vertical Challenge
How much vertical can you handle? This option is designed for those who live for the uphill grind. Ascend from the base to the summit as many times as possible—then take the chairlift back down. It’s pure elevation gain, all day long. With 1,546 feet of climbing per ascent, this challenge is perfect for runners who love pushing limits and collecting serious vertical.
Powderhorn Ultra and Vert Challenge