Royal Gorge Groove

Royal Gorge Groove : April 25, 2026, Cañon City, CO

Royal Gorge Groove is a trail running event at Royal Gorge Ranch & Resort in Cañon City, Colorado, held on April 25, 2026. Races start and finish at the Gunslingers Club on the ranch. The course follows the rim of the Royal Gorge, about 900 feet above the Arkansas River, with rocky, technical trails, cliffs, and rolling hills.

Distances offered:

• 50K - 31.3 miles, 3,532 ft total gain
• 30K - 18.2 miles, 2,112 ft total gain
• 20K - 12.9 miles, 1,330 ft total gain
• 13K - 8.3 miles, 897 ft total gain
• 5K - 3.1 miles, 323 ft total gain
• Kids Run - 1 mile, nominal gain

Course details, support and safety

Aid stations are placed along courses with typical spacing noted between about 2 and 6 miles. All distances allow finish-line drop bags; 50K runners may use a designated start/finish drop bag location. Crews and spectators are permitted at the start/finish area, though parking may be limited. No pacers are allowed for any distance.

The event provides on-site EMT medical support at the race headquarters and a phone number for on-course assistance. Weather in April is likely cool and snow is possible; organizers may require essential gear and may alter or stop participation for safety. Awards are given to the top three male and female finishers at each distance; all finishers receive a finisher award. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.