The Bear Chase

Event overview

The Bear Chase Trail Race is a two-day endurance festival at Bear Creek Lake Park, 15600 W. Morrison Road, Lakewood, CO. The event features these distances:

• 100K
• 50 Mile
• 50K
• Half Marathon
• 10K
• 5K

Ultras (100K, 50 Mile, 50K) are held on Saturday and the shorter distances (Half Marathon, 10K, 5K) are held on Sunday. Registration closes on Mon, Sep 28 (event year details listed by the organizer). A portion of registration proceeds supports Lakewood open space and trails.

Course and logistics

Nearly all routes run on dirt and single-track trails, with short paved sections on the 50K and 10K/5K courses. Total elevation gain varies by distance (examples from recent listings): 5K ~127 ft, 10K ~311 ft, Half Marathon ~887–900 ft, 50K ~1,930–2,036 ft, 50 Mile ~3,400–3,470 ft, 100K ~4,250–4,336 ft. Runners must stay on marked trails and follow Leave No Trace principles. A park entry policy applies for runners, crew and spectators; runner entry is complimentary prior to the race start.

Support, safety and rules

Aid stations are positioned around the loops and typically offer water, Tailwind (endurance fuel), soda and a variety of food (sweet and salty snacks, fruit, PB&J, pickles). Drop bags are available at the Start/Finish area; crew assistance on-course is prohibited except at the Start/Finish. Pacers are permitted only for the ultras under the event rules. Medical support is provided from a main tent at Start/Finish and basic supplies at aid stations. The race proceeds in varied weather and includes instructions for wildlife encounters. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.