North Fork 50 Mile

Event overview

The North Fork 50 Mile/50K takes place Saturday, May 30, 2026, in Buffalo Creek, Colorado. The event offers two distances:

• 50 Mile
• 50K (31.1 miles)

Time limits are stated for each distance: the 50 Mile has a 14-hour cutoff and the 50K has a 13-hour cutoff. A portion of race proceeds benefits the North Fork Volunteer Fire Department; the 50K entry notes additional beneficiaries including ProjectPurple.org and Conifer’s StageDoor Theatre. The start and finish are at Buffalo Creek Clubhouse, 18050 S Buffalo Creek Road, Buffalo Creek, CO.

Course and logistics

Both courses are run almost entirely on soft surface trail, primarily singletrack with some short sections of double track. The 50K is one loop. Key elevation figures: the 50 Mile lists about 6,425 feet total climb with a maximum elevation near 8,535 feet; the 50K lists about 3,670 feet total climb with a maximum elevation near 8,150 feet.

Aid stations are placed along the courses; offerings range from water-only to hydration and food. Drop bags are available at the Buffalo aid station. Some aid stations have limited parking and limited crew access; crew access rules vary by station and runners receiving crew support outside designated areas may face penalties. Pacers are not allowed, though family or friends may run in with a runner for the final mile along Buffalo Creek Road.

Course markings use orange and black polka-dot ribbons and orange pin flags for the correct route; blue-and-white checkered ribbons indicate the wrong way. All finishers receive a commemorative award and special awards are given to the top three male and female finishers in each distance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.