Niwot's Challenge
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Niwot's Challenge
Niwot's Challenge is an invitation-only, non-competitive endurance event held along the South Platte River in Sedalia, CO. The 14th annual edition is scheduled for May 1, 2027, with a field capacity of 40 participants. The event presents an unpublished course that emphasizes off-trail navigation, limited aid, and self-reliance.
The format requires participants to visit designated Sacred Waypoints and retrieve unique codes to validate completion. Organizers prohibit GPS use on course; map and compass navigation or following a registered navigator is required. Phones are allowed for emergency use only. Entry is free; donations are encouraged.
Applications are accepted during a defined window in January 2027. Selection follows a specific order of priority that includes immediate acceptance for the first five applicants, allocations for returning participants and first-time applicants, and a set of wild cards. Applicants are notified after the field is selected.
Three main route options are described by distance and elevation:
- Burn Loop: ~24 miles, +10,000' / -10,000', 16 hour limit
- Chief's (two loops): ~50 miles, +20,400' / -20,400', 30 hour limit
- Deity (four loops): ~100 miles, +40,800' / -40,800', 60 hour limit
Mandatory gear includes a printed course map, whistle, emergency blanket or bivy, headlamp or flashlight, at least 2 liters of liquids, a light jacket, and sufficient calories for 12 hours. The event maintains an online community hub for official updates and participant communication. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
