Black Squirrel Half

Black Squirrel Half Marathon - Lory State Park (September 12, 2026)

The Black Squirrel Half Marathon takes place on the trails of Lory State Park near Fort Collins, Colorado, with start and finish at the Soldier Canyon Picnic Area. The course follows the park perimeter and provides views to the east of Horsetooth Reservoir, Fort Collins and the Great Plains, and to the west toward the Rocky Mountains.

The distance is 13.5 miles with approximately 2,000 feet of total vertical gain and descent. Runners climb about 1,500 feet over roughly four miles to the west ridge at the course apex near 7,000 feet, then descend before running about 3.5 miles of gently rolling singletrack into the finish. Minimum, maximum and average elevations are listed as 5,400 feet, 7,000 feet and 6,100 feet respectively.

Terrain is primarily dirt singletrack (about 12 miles) with roughly 1 mile of dirt road. Aid stations are fully stocked with water and sports drink; the Arthur’s West station at mile 8.5 offers additional snacks. The course will be marked with flagging and ground markings, and toilet facilities are available at trailheads and the start finish area.

Additional event details in the registration materials include a 5.5 hour time allowance, a field cap of 400 runners, a free one mile kids race, requirement to carry a minimum 16 oz water container, and a prohibition on dogs and pacers. Post race provisions include a pancake breakfast and awards. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.