Aspen Backcountry Marathon

Aspen Backcountry

Aspen Backcountry is a trail event in Aspen, Colorado, held on Saturday, August 1, 2026. The event uses trails around the town and offers multiple distances that run almost exclusively on dirt trails and through varied alpine terrain.

Distances offered:

• 50K
• Marathon
• Heavy half marathon

The 50K follows the marathon course with an added out and back to the McNamara Hut, part of the 10th Mountain Hut System. Course descriptions note significant elevation gain, steep ascents and descents, and views of the Elk Mountains and the city of Aspen.

Support on course is limited. There are remote aid stations, course markings, portable toilets and a medical team at the start and finish. Volunteer medical personnel are present at aid stations, but there is no guarantee of rescue or medical attention; participants are responsible for their own preparation. Organizers recommend carrying the official GPX track on a personal device.

Logistics and festival details: the start and finish return to Rio Grande Park and coincide with the Duck Derby festival that includes live music, youth booths, bouncy houses, food trucks, beverages and a silent auction. Parking in Aspen can be limited; carpooling and use of regional transit services are suggested. Drop bags are allowed at the start and finish. All finishers receive a commemorative award and podium awards are given to the top three men and women in each distance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.