Grin & Bear It

Event overview

The Grin & Bear It is a trail running and mountain bike event in Crested Butte, Colorado, held on July 11, 2026. The event is presented by Crested Butte Nordic and evolved from a historic sprint to Green Lake into a multi-distance race offering both a loop and an out-and-back running option plus a mountain bike race. The event base is the Crested Butte Nordic Center (620 2nd Street, Crested Butte).

Distances

• 25 km loop - run and bike
• 15 km out-and-back - run
• 14.83 miles - mountain bike route

Course details

The 25 km course is a loop with about 2,900 ft of elevation gain and loss. The route leaves the Nordic Center, follows Journey’s End road and a short section beside Highway 135 to Baxter Gulch trailhead, then climbs roughly 600 ft on switchbacks through aspens. The course reaches a high saddle near 10,700 ft and the highest point at about 10,983 ft, then follows a rocky traverse to the Green Lake Trail. Runners take a 0.3-mile spur to Green Lake for a checkpoint, then descend about 4.5 miles and 2,100 ft back to town.

The 15 km out-and-back gains about 1,600 ft, follows singletrack and subdivision roads toward Green Lake, and returns via a 4.5-mile descent of about 2,100 ft. Finish approach uses a rocky double track paralleling the Ice Rink building.

Aid and requirements

Course aid is limited and volunteers filter water at aid stations. Runners and bikers must carry a minimum of 16 oz of water. Hydration and some nutrition gels are provided at specified aid locations. There is a cut-off at the Baxter Gulch saddle (approximate mile 6) for both run and bike events. Minimal swag is offered and there are no podium awards. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.