Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Races
Cañon City, United States • 3 Oct 2026
Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Races
The Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Races take place on October 3, 2026 near the Royal Gorge Bridge. Registration for 2026 opens on February 8. The event features multiple distances and additional youth and virtual options.
- 5K Road Run crossing the Royal Gorge Bridge with hills and a downhill finish
- 8 Mile Trail Run route includes Twisted Cistern and Made in the Shade loops
- Half Marathon Trail Run 13.1 miles with rolling hills and Royal Gorge Bridge finish
The 5K follows scenic foothills near the bridge and includes uphill sections and a downhill finish; participants may walk the course. The 8 Mile Trail Run begins with a 0.7 mile approach to the Twisted Cistern trailhead, includes 1.6 miles on Twisted Cistern, a 3.1 mile loop on Made in the Shade, a re-ascent of Twisted Cistern, then a descent toward the Royal Gorge Bridge. Both the 8 mile and the half marathon are capped at 200 runners.
Trail conditions are subject to the City of Canon City Trails Committee. In cases of heavy rain or snowstorm the city may cancel the trail portion; if that occurs registrants will be offered an 8 mile dirt road option using the former 10K route. A free kids race called Dinosaur Dash is included; costumes are encouraged and children must be registered. A virtual race option is also available. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.