Never Summer 100Km

Event overview

The Never Summer races take place in July 2026 around Gould, Colorado, mostly inside State Forest State Park between the Never Summer Mountains and the Medicine Bow Mountains. Distances offered:

• 100 km (65.7 miles)
• 60 km (39.2 miles)
• Dirty Double (both distances)

Minimum and maximum elevations on course are 8,450 ft and 11,852 ft, with an average elevation of 10,220 ft. Terrain includes trail, dirt road, rough trail, high alpine and rocks. Wildlife on course can include moose, elk, deer, black bears and bighorn sheep. Registration is capped at 625 total entrants (100 km - 325; 60 km - 300). Time allowances are 24 hours for the 100 km and 15 hours for the 60 km.

Course and logistics

Both courses feature extended high-alpine ridge running and multiple alpine peaks. Vertical totals: the 100 km has about 14,500 ft of ascent and 14,500 ft of descent; the 60 km has about 8,100 ft of ascent and 8,100 ft of descent. The longest stretch without aid is 11.4 miles to Michigan Ditch; a demanding 10.0 mile section between Ruby Jewel and Clear Lake occurs at high altitude and is noted as a long aid-to-aid leg.

Aid stations are a mix of full service and limited stations. Full stations stock drink mix, gels, water, salty snacks, fruit, sweets, sandwiches and hot food later in the race; gluten-free and vegan alternatives are available on request. Drop bags are allowed at specified aid stations for each distance. Cell service is very limited on course; organizers advise runners to use printed maps or GPX files. Crewing and pacing are permitted only at designated aid stations and a park pass is required to access aid station areas by vehicle. Parking is at the Gould Community Center start/finish area. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.