Aspen Backcountry Marathon

Aspen Backcountry

Aspen Backcountry is a trail running event in Aspen, Colorado, offering three distances that run almost exclusively on dirt trails. The 50K added in 2025 follows the marathon course with an out-and-back to the McNamara Hut of the 10th Mountain Hut System. The start and finish are located at Rio Grande Park.

• 50K
• Marathon
• Heavy Half-Marathon

The courses include a mix of terrain with sustained ascents and descents and substantial overall elevation gain. The half-marathon begins near 7,900 feet and peaks above 10,100 feet; other distances also reach elevations above 10,000 feet. Key statistics provided for each distance include total elevation gain and maximum elevation.

Support on course is limited: remote aid stations and course markings are provided, with light aid offerings at some stations. Portable toilets and a medical team are available at the start and finish, and volunteer medical personnel are positioned along the course, but there is no guaranteed rescue or medical attention. Participants are advised to carry the official GPX track on a personal device.

Event logistics note that parking in Aspen can be challenging during the summer; a nearby paid Rio Grande Parking garage is available and regional bus service serves the area. Drop bags are allowed at the start/finish. A finish-day festival at Rio Grande Park coincides with a local fundraising Duck Derby and includes live music, food trucks, youth booths, bouncy houses, beverages, merchandise and a silent auction. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.