HRCA Backcountry Wilderness Half Marathon

Event overview

The HRCA Backcountry Wilderness Half Marathon takes place on November 7, 2026, in Lone Tree, Colorado. The event is a single-loop half marathon of 13.1 miles held in the Highlands Ranch Backcountry Wilderness Area and on the Douglas County East/West Trail. Registration is online only; no cash will be accepted.

Course and support

The course is 100% dirt, gravel, and singletrack and includes hills and mountain views. Four aid stations will provide water and electrolytes. Organizers encourage runners to carry their own hydration in support of a Leave No Trace approach. Dogs and strollers are prohibited on the course. The race may proceed in rain, sleet, or snow; a postponement may occur if trails become unsafe or inaccessible.

Logistics and prizes

Start/finish location: 11033 Monarch Blvd, Lone Tree, CO 80124. Secure bag check is available at the start/finish for registered participants; runners are advised not to leave items of significant value. Free parking is offered at Rocky Heights Middle School and Rock Canyon High School; parking is limited. Cash prizes are awarded to the top three finishers in each category (male, female, non-binary): 1st $600, 2nd $400, 3rd $200. All participants receive a long sleeve technical race shirt, custom bib, custom finisher medal, a pancake breakfast, and post-race beer. Cutoff checkpoints are set at approximately 8.9 miles (2 hours 35 minutes from the last corral start) and at the finish (3 hours 50 minutes from the last corral start). Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.