Course Highlights
The Georgetown to Idaho Springs Half Marathon — affectionately known as the GTIS Half — has been a Colorado running institution for nearly five decades. The point-to-point course follows the historic path of the Argentine Central Railroad through the stunning Clear Creek Canyon, connecting the Victorian mountain town of Georgetown to the gold-rush heritage town of Idaho Springs. The route follows the canyon’s gentle contours along Clear Creek, offering dramatic rock wall scenery, rushing whitewater, and views of Colorado’s mountain character at its most authentic. The net-downhill course makes it accessible for runners chasing personal records.
Race Details
The 2026 race takes place on Saturday, August 8, with a 7:00 AM start from Georgetown. The finish is in Idaho Springs along Miner Street. Cost ranges from $75–$105. The race is part of the Colorado Mountain Half+ Series, which also includes the Estes Park Half Marathon and the Mt. Sneffels Half Marathon, offering runners a chance to tackle multiple mountain half marathons across Colorado’s summer. The race is organized by the Clear Creek Booster Club, with proceeds benefiting local youth programs.
Why Runners Love It
The GTIS Half combines history, scenery, and a community-focused atmosphere that sets it apart from larger commercial events. The course through Clear Creek Canyon is genuinely beautiful, and the two bookend towns — Georgetown with its Victorian architecture and Idaho Springs with its hot springs and gold mine heritage — make the entire experience feel like a journey through Colorado’s past. With nearly 50 years of history, this race has a loyal following that returns year after year.
Race Weekend Tips
Georgetown sits at 8,530 feet and Idaho Springs at 7,526 feet — both well above a mile high. Sea-level runners should plan to arrive in Colorado at least 2–3 days early. August mornings in the canyon can be cool at the 7:00 AM start, so have a warm layer for the starting line. The race is point-to-point, so arrange transportation back to Georgetown in advance — shuttles are typically available but fill up quickly.
Register
Registration opens in winter at gtishalf.com and via Race Roster. With limited entries and a loyal returning field, registration moves quickly after opening day.




