The Slacker Half Marathon earns its name \u2014 runners start at the base of Loveland Ski Area at a breathtaking 10,630 feet elevation and ride a net-downhill course all the way to Georgetown at approximately 8,400 feet, losing nearly 2,200 feet over 13.1 miles. The course is a thrilling mix of dirt and paved roads, guiding participants through pristine alpine wetlands and wildflower meadows, past natural waterfalls, dramatic views of the Continental Divide, and through remnants of Colorado’s historic 19th-century silver mining era. The route follows the path of the old Argentine Central Railroad, adding historical character to every mile.<\/p>\n
The 2026 race is on Saturday, June 27, with a 7:30 AM start. In addition to the Half Marathon, participants can run the 4-Mile fun race or enter as a relay team. There is no race-day registration \u2014 all participants must register in advance. The finish line in Georgetown’s picturesque Victorian downtown is followed by post-race festivities and locally crafted beer. The race welcomes walkers and is open to youth competitors as well as military veterans at discounted rates.<\/p>\n
Few races in the world offer the pure exhilaration of running downhill for 13.1 miles through high-alpine scenery at over 10,000 feet. The Slacker sells out reliably each year because the experience is truly unique \u2014 the cool mountain air, the scenery, and the net-downhill PR potential make it a bucket-list race for Colorado runners. Post-race, Georgetown’s 19th-century architecture provides a perfect backdrop for celebration.<\/p>\n
The high starting elevation (10,630 feet) demands respect \u2014 if you live at lower elevations, arrive in Colorado 2\u20133 days early to acclimate. Temperatures at the start can be in the low 40s\u00b0F or even below freezing in late June at altitude, while the finish in Georgetown may be in the 60s\u00b0F. Dress in layers you can shed. The course also features exposed alpine sections where afternoon thunderstorms can develop, but the 7:30 AM start typically gets runners down before weather builds.<\/p>\n