No two ways about it–running is great exercise. It’s a calorie-burning activity that can be done just about anywhere, without any special equipment. And for many people, running is also a social activity, a chance to catch up with friends or family while getting some fresh air and exercise. Colorado Springs is a runner’s paradise, with miles and miles of trails winding through the foothills and plenty of races to choose from.
You can take on a challenging mountain course at the Pikes Peak Ascent or the Colorado Springs Marathon, or opt for a quick, scenic 5K around downtown or Memorial Park. No matter your speed or running style, there is sure to be race for you. So if you’re looking for a great way to get active, get social, or just have some fun, look no farther than the many races in Colorado Springs. Here are highlights of upcoming runs and races this fall.
5K and 10K Races
Do 5Ks and 10Ks sound like grueling endurance tests? They actually can be a lot of fun and a great way to get into running since they are usually inclusive and less competitive than longer races. Plus, many of these distance races have fun themes that make them even more festive and enjoyable — and there’s almost always the option to walk the 5K instead if you need to take a break. Here’s a roundup of some upcoming 5Ks and 10Ks to check out.
Best of the West Wing Fest 5K
Aug. 6 – FH Beerworks
What better way to incentivize running than with an all-out wing festival, complete with beer, music, food and fun? The Best of the West Wing Fest starts with a 5K and invites all runners to the wing competition and celebration afterward.
Starlight Spectacular
Aug. 13 — Garden of the Gods
You might think of the classic Starlight Spectacular as a bike ride, but this locals’ favorite event includes a 5K walk and run before the late-night bike ride. Bring your lights, glowsticks and costumes. This is a great way to enjoy Garden of the Gods at night and also support the outdoors through the Trails and Open Space Coalition.
OrangeTheory 5K at Labor Day Lift Off
Sept. 4 – Memorial Park
New to Labor Day Lift Off this year, Orangetheory Fitness hosts its first annual 5K in Memorial Park. The race kicks off at 9 a.m., but participants are welcome to arrive early and watch the balloons launch into the sky. How’s that for an inspiring running backdrop?
coloradospringslabordayliftoff.com/5k-race
Hurts Donut 5K
Sept. 3 – America the Beautiful Park
Donut you want to have a good time? The Hurts “Glo-nut” Run Series is a laid-back affair where participants can walk, run, skip or dance their way through the course while decked out in glowing gear. Of course, there are donuts afterward!
UCCS Trek the Trail
Oct. 15 – UCCS, Lot 580 at Intersection of N. Nevada and North Campus Heights
The Trek the Trail 5K is an annual event held on trails around University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. The event fosters leadership opportunities for students and is a zero-waste event focusing on sustainable, leave-no-trace ethics. The event is open to the public and welcomes runners of all levels.
Runs for a Cause
Running can be a great way to stay in shape and have some fun, but it can also be a great way to support a good cause. Whether you’re running a race to raise money for charity or simply lacing up your shoes to raise awareness for an important issue, using your feet to make a difference is a great way to give back. There’s no need to be a top-level athlete to make an impact. Just put one foot in front of the other at one of these upcoming runs for a good cause.
Protect the Children 5K Walk
Aug. 27 – Monument Valley Park at Legacy Loop Plaza
The Protect the Children 5K Run is an annual event that raises funds to provide free, licensed childcare for caregivers who need to attend court.
Race Against Suicide
Sept. 18 – El Pomar Youth Sports Park
Every year, the Pikes Peak Suicide Prevention Partnership sponsors the Race Against Suicide. Participants can take their time walking the 5K or get their legs pumping in the 3K run.
pikespeaksuicideprevention.org
Run with Rwanda
Aug. 6 -Boddington Park Field
For 15 years and counting, participants of Run with Rwanda run at the same time as those in Rwanda, and the funds raised go toward scholarships and the vocational training center in Rwanda.
Trail Runs
Why run on the pavement when you can crunch gravel underfoot on local trails? Colorado Springs trail runs vary in length from 5Ks to ultramarathons that are more than 50 miles long. The terrain can be difficult, with hills and obstacles, if you’re looking for a challenge. And there’s always that beautiful Colorado Springs mountain scenery.
Bobcat Trail Races
5K, 10K, 25K and 50k
Oct. 22
Choose your length and get to know the rolling, but often rugged, trails of Palmer Park. The natural oasis in the middle of the Springs provides panoramic views among its sandstone bluffs and mesas.
madmooseevents.com/bobcat-trail-races
Pikes Peak Road Runners Fall Series
Oct. 2, 16, 30 and November 13 – Location varies
The annual Fall Series is an exciting running series that will challenge your mind and body on scenic trail networks around Colorado Springs: Bear Creek Regional Park, North Monument Valley Park, Pinon Valley Park and Palmer Park. Each of the four separate races is longer than the previous, at 3.1 miles, 4 miles, 5.5 miles and 7.4 miles. The series is a great way to build your training and racing endurance.
Cheyenne Mountain Run
5K, 10K and 25K
Oct. 8 – Cheyenne Mountain State Park
The Cheyenne Mountain Run is a scenic three-stage trail race, with the more experienced runners tackling a 25K that winds 3,350 feet up the mountain before making their way back down to the finish line. However, there are 5K and 10K courses for those who want in on some shorter-distance fun.
Half Marathons, Marathons and Ultras
Half marathons and marathons have long been an epic running challenge. The sense of accomplishment that comes with crossing the finish line is unbeatable. For others, it’s about the camaraderie. Training for and running long-distance races is a great way to meet people and make lasting friendships.
Go Half Crazy
Aug. 7 – America the Beautiful Park
Dust off your leggings and leg warmers, because an 80s-themed half marathon is coming to Colorado Springs. The Go Half Crazy race also offers a 5K and 10K race, making it a perfect event for runners of all levels who want to dress up and have a blast.
Colorado Springs Marathon
Oct. 1 – Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum
Want to run a relatively flat marathon in Colorado? The Colorado Springs Marathon follows the Pikes Peak Greenway trail from the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum downtown to the U.S. Air Force Academy. The views are beautiful. The elevation gain is gradual, but the accomplishment is still great. You can also choose half marathon and 5K options. It’s no wonder this marathon has become one of Colorado’s most popular races.
thecoloradospringsmarathon.com
Pikes Peak APEX Runs
Sept. 25 – America the Beautiful Park
Ready to test yourself in an ultra? The Pikes Peak Apex run is a 50K race on the last day of the annual Pikes Peak Apex mountain bike race. The course starts and finishes in America the Beautiful Park with runners climbing over 4,000 feet. For shorter-distance runners who still want in on the epic Apex experience, the event also includes a 5K and 10K.
Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Race
Oct. 2 – Royal Gorge Bridge & Park
If you’re looking for a challenging half marathon, the Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Race is for you. This course makes its way through the foothills surrounding the north side of the Royal Gorge Bridge and gains over 2,000 feet of elevation in the process. While the course isn’t for the faint of heart, the stunning Royal Gorge views are surely worth it.
Pikes Peak Ascent & Marathon
Sept. 17 and 18 – Manitou Springs City Hall
The Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon is an international classic. The unique, physically demanding course takes runners on a challenging journey to the top of America’s Mountain. Marathoners run up Pikes Peak’s summit and back down again. Those running the Ascent still face a fierce and grueling 13.3-mile climb. Both events gain over 7,800 feet from starting line to summit. So, yes, you must qualify to enter. Some hardcore competitors do the double, racing both the Ascent and Marathon on back-to-back days.
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