Cougar Ridge Classic 26K

Event Overview

The Cougar Ridge Classic 26K is a point-to-point trail running race that travels from Vail to the Town of Minturn, Colorado. The event takes place in the autumn, featuring a course that traverses Vail Mountain and offers views of Mount of the Holy Cross and local aspen groves. The race is limited to 250 participants and requires a signed liability waiver for participation.

Course Details

The event features two distances:

• 26K (16.1 miles): This route involves a significant ascent from Vail Village via the Cabin and Kinnickinnick trails, reaching an elevation of nearly 11,000 feet at Wildwood. The terrain consists of 78% singletrack, 16% dirt or gravel roads, and 6% paved surfaces. It includes a technical descent on the Cougar Ridge Singletrack Trail into Minturn.
• 14K (8.9 miles): Known as the Cougar Cub, this course begins at Eagle's Nest at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola. It features a scenic loop before joining the descent through Game Creek Bowl and continuing down to Minturn.

The courses are located on public trails used by hikers and bikers. Five aid stations are positioned along the 26K route, providing water, electrolyte fluids, and various snacks. Cut-off times are enforced at specific waypoints, including Eagle's Nest and the finish line.

Logistics and Amenities

The organizers provide shuttle services from the finish area in Minturn to the start locations in Vail prior to the races. Gear bag transportation is available for runners to have supplies delivered to the Eagle's Nest aid station or the finish line.

Participants receive a lunch voucher valid at several participating restaurants in Minturn. An after-party and awards ceremony take place at the finish expo. Awards are presented to the top three male and female finishers in the elite category, as well as the top finishers in various age groups. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.