West Elk Challenge

West Elk Challenge Trail Marathon

The West Elk Challenge is a point to point trail race in Western Colorado’s North Fork Valley on October 3, 2026. The event offers two distance options that climb the slopes of Mt. Lamborn and cross Inter-Ocean Pass before descending into the Town of Paonia. The course gains over 4,000 feet in elevation and reaches Inter-Ocean Pass at about 9,762 feet. Most of the route is on gravel roads and singletrack forest trails, with a few paved sections at the beginning and end.

Aid stations are located roughly at miles 7, 11, 15, 19, and 22, and provide water, snacks, first aid supplies, and volunteer support. A cutoff at the mile 11 aid station is in place to ensure participants are out of the backcountry by sunset; participants are responsible for their own safety and preparedness for mountain conditions. Shuttle service runs between Paonia and the Crawford State Park area to reduce congestion and day use impacts.

All proceeds from the race fund scholarships for The Nature Connection’s summer camps, with a fundraising goal of $25,000 for camp scholarships. West Elk Mountain Rescue supports the event. Early October weather in the mountains can change quickly, so the race notes that participants should be prepared for varied conditions. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.