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The Pikes Peak Marathon is a world-renowned trail race that challenges runners with a 7,815-foot ascent to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak and back.
Course Highlights
The Pikes Peak Marathon is widely regarded as one of the most challenging trail races in the world. Starting at an elevation of 6,300 feet in Manitou Springs, the course takes runners on a grueling 13.3-mile ascent to the summit of Pikes Peak, reaching a staggering 14,115 feet. Runners navigate the legendary Barr Trail, which features a mix of steep inclines, technical rocky sections, and breathtaking alpine scenery. After reaching the summit, marathoners must turn around and descend the same path, testing their technical skill and endurance on the high-speed downhill return to the finish line in Manitou Springs.
Race Details
The 2026 Pikes Peak Marathon is scheduled for September 20, 2026, with a typical start time of 07:00. The event is part of a race weekend that also includes the Pikes Peak Ascent, held the previous day. Due to its extreme nature, the marathon has strict qualification requirements and wave placements based on runners’ previous performance and experience at high altitudes. Registration for the 2026 event is set to open on March 1, 2026. The race is operated under a special use permit from the Pike National Forest, and aid stations are strategically placed along the Barr Trail, though some require supplies to be packed in by volunteers or pack animals due to the remote terrain.
Why Runners Love It
Known as “America’s Ultimate Challenge,” the Pikes Peak Marathon attracts trail running enthusiasts and elite athletes from across the globe. Its history dates back to 1956, making it the oldest continually held marathon in the United States. Runners are drawn to the race’s unique atmosphere, the camaraderie of the “Pikes Peak Trail Dogs,” and the immense sense of accomplishment that comes from conquering one of the country’s most iconic Fourteeners. The race is not just a test of speed, but a battle against altitude, unpredictable mountain weather, and the physical toll of a 7,815-foot vertical climb and descent.
At a Glance
- Location: Manitou Springs, CO — United States
- Next Date: 2026-09-20
- Distances: 26.21 miles (42.2 km)
- Start Time: 07:00
Register & Learn More
Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: https://www.pikespeakmarathon.org/
Manitou Springs, CO 80829 United States
The Pikes Peak Marathon is a world-renowned trail race that challenges runners with a 7,815-foot ascent to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak and back.
Course Highlights
The Pikes Peak Marathon is widely regarded as one of the most challenging trail races in the world. Starting at an elevation of 6,300 feet in Manitou Springs, the course takes runners on a grueling 13.3-mile ascent to the summit of Pikes Peak, reaching a staggering 14,115 feet. Runners navigate the legendary Barr Trail, which features a mix of steep inclines, technical rocky sections, and breathtaking alpine scenery. After reaching the summit, marathoners must turn around and descend the same path, testing their technical skill and endurance on the high-speed downhill return to the finish line in Manitou Springs.
Race Details
The 2026 Pikes Peak Marathon is scheduled for September 20, 2026, with a typical start time of 07:00. The event is part of a race weekend that also includes the Pikes Peak Ascent, held the previous day. Due to its extreme nature, the marathon has strict qualification requirements and wave placements based on runners’ previous performance and experience at high altitudes. Registration for the 2026 event is set to open on March 1, 2026. The race is operated under a special use permit from the Pike National Forest, and aid stations are strategically placed along the Barr Trail, though some require supplies to be packed in by volunteers or pack animals due to the remote terrain.
Why Runners Love It
Known as “America’s Ultimate Challenge,” the Pikes Peak Marathon attracts trail running enthusiasts and elite athletes from across the globe. Its history dates back to 1956, making it the oldest continually held marathon in the United States. Runners are drawn to the race’s unique atmosphere, the camaraderie of the “Pikes Peak Trail Dogs,” and the immense sense of accomplishment that comes from conquering one of the country’s most iconic Fourteeners. The race is not just a test of speed, but a battle against altitude, unpredictable mountain weather, and the physical toll of a 7,815-foot vertical climb and descent.
At a Glance
- Location: Manitou Springs, CO — United States
- Next Date: 2026-09-20
- Distances: 26.21 miles (42.2 km)
- Start Time: 07:00
Register & Learn More
Visit the official race website for entry details, course maps, and registration: https://www.pikespeakmarathon.org/