Black Squirrel Half
Bellvue, United States • 12 Sep 2026
Event
The Black Squirrel Half Marathon takes place on September 12, 2026, at Lory State Park near Bellvue, Colorado. The main event is 13.5 miles with approximately 2,000 ft of total vertical gain and descent. A free kids race of 1 mile on gently rolling singletrack is also offered. The race field is capped at 400 entrants and the overall time allowance for the course is 5.5 hours. The start and finish are at the Soldier Canyon Picnic Area (708 Lodgepole Dr, Bellvue, CO).
Course and logistics
The course follows outer park trails and includes approximately 12 miles of dirt singletrack and 1 mile of dirt road. Elevation ranges from about 5,400 ft to 7,000 ft, with an average elevation near 6,100 ft. Runners climb roughly 1,500 ft between mile 2 and mile 6, descend over the next 2.5 miles, then run about 4.5 miles of gently rolling singletrack to the finish. Aid stations are located at Timber/Westridge (mile 4.5), Arthur’s West (mile 8.5), Arthur’s East (mile 11.0) and the finish. Aid stations provide water and a sports drink; Arthur’s West also offers snacks. The course is marked with flagging, pin flags and flour at key intersections. Race rules note a minimum 16 oz water-carry requirement, no pacers, no dogs, and crewing only at designated aid stations. Post-race awards, a pancake breakfast and finisher items are provided. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.