Grand Traverse Mountain Run
Crested Butte, United States • 5 Sep 2026
Grand Traverse Mountain Run
The Grand Traverse Mountain Run is a point-to-point ultramarathon from Crested Butte to Aspen, Colorado, held on September 5, 2026. The course follows the route of the Grand Traverse backcountry ski race and covers 40 miles across the Elk Mountains with over 6,000 feet of elevation gain.
The event is operated as a fundraising race for Crested Butte Nordic, a 501(c)(3) recreational nonprofit. The run uses a traditional aid station structure with five aid stations on course. Drop bags are available at Taylor Pass (mile 23.5) and at the finish. Aid stations provide a mix of full aid items and limited aid items, including water, electrolyte products from the event sponsor, energy gels and chews, sweet and salty snacks, and fresh fruit. Some stations offer additional items such as quesadillas and mini salted potatoes.
Runners must carry mandatory gear: a waterproof windshield with hood, a hat or buff, and gloves. A Colorado Outdoor Search and Rescue card or a current Colorado hunting or fishing license is required and must be shown at bib pick-up. Live tracking via the event tracking system is mandatory for racer safety. Entry policies include no refunds and no transfers between participants, and the event maintains a traditional waitlist. The race allocates a limited number of competitive entries per gender to create an elite field. Volunteer roles are used to staff aid stations and race operations. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.