Who’s ready to run it back this year? We certainly are! Race day is approaching quickly, and we have some exciting insights about this year’s Colorado Marathon in Fort Collins. From information about the courses and the race weekend health and fitness expo to details about the post-race party, explore some of the highlights of our annual event. Keep reading to learn more, and if you haven’t registered yet but want to, sign up today to save your spot in this year’s race!
The Colorado Marathon: “The Fastest Marathon in Colorado”
The Colorado Marathon in Fort Collins has four courses: a Full, Half, 10k, and 5k — a race for everyone! Each course is unique in its own way, offering gorgeous views of diverse landscapes ranging from mountainous downhill terrain to flat trails meandering through natural open spaces.
If you’re feeling the need for speed, the Full and Half-Marathon courses are just for you. The Full is considered “The Fastest Marathon in Colorado,” and with good reason. This downhill 26.2 course winds through the awe-inspiring Poudre Canyon along the stunning Cache la Poudre River. With a total elevation loss of 1,200 feet and a fast downhill section, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to set new PRs or qualify for the Boston Marathon.
Along with the Full Marathon, the Half-Marathon offers a rapid descent through the Poudre Canyon of over 300 feet of elevation loss before the course flattens out as you exit the canyon. Both courses offer “50 State” runners and others an exhilarating alternative to another urban marathon.
Home of the 2023 & 2024 RRCA State Marathon Championship
The Colorado Marathon has been awarded the 2024 RRCA Colorado State Marathon Championship for two consecutive years. We’re honored to receive this prestigious designation from the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA), which recognizes our commitment to grassroots, community-driven running and athleticism.
Being selected as the RRCA Colorado State Marathon Championship is a genuine privilege for us, enhancing the significance of the Marathon distance and offering crucial backing for our event. We also appreciate the race acknowledgment and the extra perks and awards for the victors.
When choosing RRCA Championship Events, factors such as event size, course design, reputation, charitable involvement, accessibility, and community impact are all taken into account. RRCA Program Director Andy Smith has highlighted the Colorado Marathon as excelling in each of these aspects. We take great pride in our commitment to upholding these high standards.
Race Weekend Health & Fitness Expo and Packet Pickup
Each year, the Colorado Marathon hosts our health and fitness expo in Fort Collins. This pre-race event takes place during race weekend on Friday from 3 pm–7 pm and Saturday from 10 am–6 pm. Race participants can mingle with fellow runners, meet our sponsors, and discover a variety of top-notch health and fitness gear, products, and services.
All participants are required to pick up their race packets at the health and fitness expo before the race, with the exception of runners who opted to register and pay the fee for the Race Day Packet Pickup. You can also register and change races at the expo unless races have reached capacity.
Colorado Marathon Race Swag & Finisher Medals
The Colorado Marathon is not only a race that offers a beautiful and challenging course, but also a fantastic event in which all participants win big.
Our race swag is an exciting part of the package, which includes:
- A limited edition finisher print
- An annual race tech t-shirt
- Entry to the pre-race expo
- Entry to the post-race party
- One craft beer ticket
Additionally, all participants can look forward to exclusive promos from the race sponsors.
For those who complete the Full and Half-Marathon, the rewards are even greater, as they will receive a limited edition finisher medal — a cherished memento to commemorate their achievement. This year’s finisher medals are truly exceptional, with intricate designs that represent the beauty of Colorado and the spirit of the race.
The Colorado Marathon is more than just a run, it’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression and memories to last a lifetime — and the impressive swag and finisher medals are a testament to that. Explore the awards categories for more details!
Post-Race Party and Celebration
Don’t miss out on the fun after crossing the finish line at the Colorado Marathon! Come and join the epic post-race bash at the Odell Brewing Co. Beer Garden in Washington Park to revel in your triumph.
The celebration kicks off right after the races wrap up, where participants and volunteers can savor complimentary local craft beer on the house! Ensure you have your ID handy to receive a wristband either at the health and fitness expo or at the Odell Brewing Co. Beer Garden.
Stick around to celebrate your accomplishment Colorado-style with positive vibes, cold beer, live tunes, and good company!
Join Us at This Year’s Colorado Marathon in
Fort Collins
Well, there you have it! These are just a few of the exciting highlights to know about the Colorado Marathon in Fort Collins. Have questions about race day logistics, awards categories, lodging, and more? Click the link to find all the Race Information you need or explore our FAQs for more details. Ready to join us at this year’s event? We’d be honored to have you! Register today to save your spot in the race! See you in May!