Vail Hillclimb

Vail HillClimb

The Vail HillClimb is a historic uphill trail race on Vail Mountain that follows a roughly seven-mile route from Vail Village to Mid-Vail. The course distance is 12.2K (about 7.6 miles) with an elevation gain of 2,128 feet, a low point near 8,160 feet and a high point near 10,254 feet. Running surfaces are primarily dirt and gravel roads (approximately 80%) with about 20% paved sections, and a maximum grade of 13.5%.

The route uses the original HillClimb alignment that began as a gravel double-track and now runs along gravel service roads and mountain roads. There are three aid stations located at the Mill Creek/Gitalong Road split, just below the Avanti Lift, and below Eagle’s Nest. Water is available at all aid stations and Skratch hydration drink is provided on course. At the finish racers are offered donuts and fresh fruit from a local vendor. The series operates as a minimal-waste event and encourages reusable hydration devices or cups.

Bib pickup is offered the days before the race at the Colorado Snowsports Museum and on race day near Vail’s Mountain Haus. Spectators may obtain gondola vouchers at registration to reach Mid-Vail; dogs are not permitted on the gondola. Awards are presented at Mid-Vail, with prizes for the top three males and females in standard age-group categories spanning 19 and under through 70 and over. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.