Welcome to The Colorado Marathon’s Full Marathon in Fort Collins
Are you ready to take on the challenge? Your adventure awaits!
Experience the Thrill of Running a Full Marathon Like No Other
Welcome to the Colorado Marathon’s Full Marathon in Fort Collins, Colorado — the ultimate challenge for runners seeking adventure, natural beauty, and an unparalleled race experience. Get ready to test your endurance and determination on a 26.2-mile course that winds through the awe-inspiring Poudre Canyon in the Rocky Mountains.
As you run alongside the glistening Cache la Poudre River, you’ll feel the rush of the cool mountain air, the echo of your footsteps on the pavement, and the thrill of knowing you’re running one of the most epic races in Colorado.
We are an equal opportunity provider, authorized by special use permit to operate on the land in Roosevelt National Forest.
Why Run With Us? It’s the Course (of Course)!
The Colorado Marathon’s 26.2: It’s All Downhill From Here
This course will test your endurance and mental toughness, but it also offers unmatched rewards. With a fast downhill section, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to set a new personal record or qualify for the Boston Marathon. As you run through the stunning natural beauty of Colorado, surrounded by tall peaks and dense forests, you’ll find moments of inspiration and tranquility that make the effort all worth it. What’s more? This is the perfect race for the “50 State” runners and others looking for an alternative to another urban marathon!
Runners Win Big When They Run Our Full Marathon in Fort Collins
Our full marathon offers runners so much more than just stunning views of one of the most beautiful canyons in Colorado. Here are just some of the perks you’ll enjoy when you run the Colorado Marathon!
Boston Marathon Qualifying Course
Colorado Marathon Finisher Print
Finisher Medal
Annual Race Tech-T-shirt
Entry to the Pre-Race Expo
Entry to the Post-Race Party
Live Music and Food Trucks
One Craft Beer Ticket
Course Map and Info
One of the most remarkable features of the Colorado Marathon’s 26.2 race is its high-altitude scenery. But it’s not just the scenery that makes this race so special — it’s also the course itself. Our full marathon course is a masterpiece of natural wonder and engineering, combining breathtaking scenery with a fast downhill slope perfect for strong and ambitious runners. With a total elevation loss of 1,200 feet, this course offers a significant boost to your speed and endurance, as well as a higher chance of Boston Marathon qualification.
Discover What Makes Our Full Marathon Course So Unique
The full marathon starts at Steven’s Gulch where runners will descend the downhill course in the Poudre Canyon for 16 miles before the course flattens out in the town of Laporte. As you descend the winding Poudre River Canyon Road, you’ll pass through scenic landmarks such as the tunnel at mile 2.5. Once you’ve reached the tunnel, you’ve dropped 141 ft. of elevation with another 980 ft. of net elevation loss ahead of you! Once you reach mile 21.5 at the Overland Trail Bridge, you’re in the home stretch! The descent is behind you as you dig deep to finish the race in Downtown Fort Collins! For those who have trained running downhill, personal records and Boston qualifying should be within reach!
What to Know About Running Our Full Marathon
We want you to feel cool and confident coming into the race, so here are a few things to know about running the full marathon in Fort Collins:
The full marathon starts at 6:30 am. Mandatory bus boarding is from 4:15 am – 5:00 am at the South edge of Old Town Square on East Mountain Ave., just east of N. College Ave.
Parking is available at:
The Old Town Garage on the Southeast corner of Mountain and Remington (209 E Mountain Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80524).
The surface lot at Oak and Remington (215 Remington St, Fort Collins, CO 80524).
The race begins at an elevation of 6,111 feet, which may affect your performance if you’re not used to running at high altitudes. We recommend acclimating to the altitude a few days before the race and staying hydrated throughout.
The course is mostly downhill, which can be great for speed, but also requires careful pacing and technique to avoid injury. Make sure to train on hilly terrain and practice downhill running skills. Check out these helpful downhill running tips from our friends at Colorado In Motion!
Our aid stations, staffed by friendly and enthusiastic volunteers, will be stocked with water, Gatorade, Honey Stinger gels, and more to help you stay fueled and hydrated. We’ll also have medical support on hand in case of any emergencies.
You’ll receive a custom race shirt, finisher medal, limited edition finisher print, and other goodies to celebrate your accomplishment. We’ve partnered with a wildly talented artist who’s created all our stunning finisher prints for 20+ years and counting — you’re in for a treat! Finally, celebrate your new PR with a beer from the award-winning Odell Brewing Co.
We encourage you to stay for the post-race party and enjoy live music, food, and drinks with your fellow runners.
Ready to Conquer Colorado’s Fastest Full Marathon?
Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a first-time runner, the Colorado Marathon’s Full Marathon is the ultimate challenge for those who seek to explore their limits and embrace the natural beauty of our state. Join us on race day and discover a community of passionate runners, cheering supporters, and a spirit of camaraderie that will inspire you to go the extra mile. Let’s do this! Register today to save your spot — we’ll see you at the finish line!
