North Fork 50 Mile
Buffalo Creek, United States • 30 May 2026
North Fork 50 Ultras : Buffalo Creek, Colorado
The North Fork 50 offers two trail ultramarathon distances in the Buffalo Creek Recreation Area, Pike National Forest, southwest of Denver. The event features a course that is entirely soft surface, made up almost entirely of singletrack trails with short sections of double track.
Distances:
- 50 Mile
- 50K (31.1 Miles)
The route passes through areas affected by the 1996 Buffalo Creek fire, open burn sections, ponderosa pine forest, and areas with granite rock formations. The 50 Mile course lists about 6,425 feet of total climb and a maximum elevation near 8,535 feet. The 50K course lists about 3,670 feet of total climb and a maximum elevation near 8,150 feet.
Aid stations are placed along each course and generally offer hydration and food; some locations allow crew access, restrooms, and drop bags. Course markings use orange and black polka-dot ribbons and orange pin flags, with reflective medallions in sections where night-time running is possible. A portion of race proceeds benefits the North Fork Volunteer Fire Department and other local organizations.
Finish-line provisions include food and drinks for participants and volunteers and commemorative awards for finishers. Parking is adjacent to the start/finish area with overflow and spectator parking at St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.