Estes Park Marathon 2026

The Estes Park Marathon 2026 takes place on June 21, 2026, in the scenic mountain town of Estes Park, Colorado. Participants can expect typical June mountain weather, which often includes cool morning temperatures, sunny afternoons, and the potential for sudden mountain showers. The event features a unique course layout that transitions from high-altitude descents to paved lakeside paths, offering a mix of road shoulders, dirt trail sections, and paved recreational paths. Runners will navigate a variety of terrains while enjoying expansive mountain views throughout the journey.

What distances are offered in this event?

• →Marathon
• →Half Marathon

What are the specific course characteristics?

The course features a mixed-terrain profile consisting of:

• →Road shoulders
• →Fish Creek dirt trail sections
• →Paved recreational paths

How is the race start and transportation handled?

All Marathon and Half Marathon participants are shuttled from Estes Park High School to the starting line located at Dao House on CO Highway 7. Runners select their preferred shuttle time during the registration process.

What is the "Sunrise Achievers" group?

The "Sunrise Achievers" is an early-start group specifically designed for marathon runners and walkers. This group includes:

• →A first bus departure at 4:00 AM
• →A dedicated pacer targeting a 6.5-hour finish
• →A special race shirt included with participation

What does the Half Marathon course entail?

The Half Marathon route follows a specific progression:

• →Start: Dao House lower parking lot near the pond
• →Initial Segment: Northbound on Highway 7 with a steady downhill descent
• →Key Descent: An elevation loss of approximately 1,500 ft down to Fish Creek Road
• →Mid-course: A right turn onto Fish Creek Road (featuring an aid station and porta-potty at mile 4)
• →Lake Section: A descent to Brodie Ave, followed by a loop around Lake Estes via paved paths and dirt shoulders
• →Final Stretch: A route through Mall Road and Waipit Meadows, passing through a pedestrian tunnel, and a final short climb on Brodie Ave
• →Finish: A 300-meter lap inside the Estes Park High School BOBCAT Stadium

Where is the finish line located?

All participants finish at the Estes Park High School Track (BOBCAT Stadium) at an elevation of approximately 7,550 ft.

What is included with race registration?

Participants receive the following items:

• →A performance race shirt (gender-specific sizing)
• →Finisher medals for all completed distances

Is there a special challenge available?

Yes, the "Shining Twin Challenge" allows participants to combine the Longs Peak 5 Mile and the Half Marathon to earn a special unique medal.

How is the course marked for runners?

To ensure participants stay on track, the course is marked using:

• →Directional arrows
• →Yellow signage
• →Course marshals stationed at key points