Blue Sky Trail Marathon
Fort Collins, United States • 17-18 Oct 2026
Blue Sky Marathon & Half
The Blue Sky Marathon and Half take place on trails between Horsetooth Mountain Park and Devil’s Backbone Open Space near Fort Collins, Colorado. Courses run north-south along the easternmost hogbacks of the Front Range and range in elevation from about 5,300 ft to 6,500 ft.
Distances:
- 26.7 miles - about 3,500 ft total elevation gain
- 13.4 miles - about 1,800 ft total elevation gain
The routes are 100% dirt with roughly 90% singletrack. Terrain includes smooth dirt singletrack, rocky technical sections, a small portion of dirt road and gravel, and the redstone hardpack of the Blue Sky Trail. Wildlife noted on course includes deer, Abert squirrel, and golden eagle.
Aid stations are fully stocked with sports drink, gels, water, soda, salty and sweet snacks, and fruit. Gluten free and vegan alternatives are available for most items but cross-contamination is possible. Runners must carry at least a 16 oz water bottle or bladder; there are no aid station cups.
The marathon has a field cap of 400 and the half has a field cap of 400. Time allowances are stated for each distance and intermediate marathon cut-offs are enforced at specified aid stations. Drop bags are permitted at designated locations and must be labeled; volunteers are not responsible for valuables. The course will be well marked and basic facilities are provided at start/finish areas. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.