Emerald Mountain Epic

Event overview

The Emerald Mountain Epic is a two-day mountain bike and trail running event in Steamboat Springs held on August 8 and 9, 2026. The course begins at Howelsen Hill Ski Area and uses public lands under a special permit from the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. The event is largely singletrack trail running and mountain biking terrain, described as about 90% singletrack and 100% dirt. Field size is limited to 500 racers per day; there is no specific limit on individual categories. Registration opens November 15, 2025.

Race distances and formats

• Mountain Bike solo - 52 miles, ~6,600 ft elevation gain
• Mountain Bike duo relay - 26 miles per rider, ~3,300 ft per lap
• Trail Full Marathon - 26.2 miles, ~3,300 ft elevation gain
• Trail Half Marathon - 13.1 miles, ~1,500 ft elevation gain
• Duo Marathon - 13.1 miles per team member, ~1,500 ft elevation gain

Logistics and benefits

The full marathon course matches one lap of the mountain bike course. The half marathon omits Ridge Trail, Cow Creek, and Beall Trail. Race services include stocked aid stations, on-course trail crew, a post-race meal, a vendor village, prize drawings, and a finisher award. Net proceeds benefit two local nonprofits: Partners For Youth and Routt County Riders. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.