West Elk Challenge

The West Elk Challenge is a scenic point-to-point trail marathon held in the North Fork Valley of Colorado, showcasing the vibrant fall colors. The 26.2-mile course starts at Crawford Reservoir State Park, traversing gravel roads through farms and ranches near Needle Rock, then climbing singletrack trails through golden aspen on Mt. Lamborn to the 9,762-foot Inter-Ocean Pass in Gunnison National Forest.

Runners descend through spruce, aspen, and oak forests past Lone Cabin Reservoir, finishing in the town of Paonia along the North Fork of the Gunnison River. A new 30km (18.5-mile) option is available. The event supports the Nature Connection’s Scholarship Fund and features multiple aid stations and a festive post-race party. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.