Blue Sky Trail Marathon
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Blue Sky Trail Marathon & Half
The Blue Sky races run on trails between Horsetooth Mountain Park and Devil’s Backbone Open Space near Fort Collins, Colorado. Courses follow the easternmost hogbacks of the Front Range and include a mix of dirt singletrack, rocky singletrack and short dirt road sections. The marathon and half differ in distance and total elevation change:
- 26.7 miles with about 3,500' total elevation change
- 13.4 miles with about 1,800' total elevation change
The route sits between roughly 5,300' and 6,500' elevation, with an average elevation of about 5,700' for the marathon. The course surface is reported as 100% dirt and approximately 90% singletrack, ranging from smooth tread to technical rock gardens and distinctive redstone hardpack. Local wildlife mentioned includes deer, Abert squirrel and golden eagle.
Aid stations are fully stocked with drink options, gels, salty and sweet foods, and fruit; gluten free and vegan alternatives are available on request. Finish amenities include a meal and awards. Field logistics note a participant cap of 400 for each distance, fixed time limits (9 hours for the marathon, 6 hours for the half) and intermediate cut-offs on the marathon course. The event provides marked trails, drop bag options at designated locations and basic course support such as portable toilets at key aid stations. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
