Blue Sky Ascent & Round Trip (formerly the Mt. Evans Ascent)

Prepare for an unparalleled high-altitude challenge at the Blue Sky Ascent & Round Trip (formerly the Mt. Evans Ascent), taking place on Sunday, June 28, 2026, in Idaho Springs, CO. This iconic event is renowned as "America's Highest Road Race," offering distances of 14.5 miles (Ascent) and 29 miles (Round Trip) on North America's highest paved road.

Runners begin their journey at Echo Lake Campground at an elevation of 10,600 feet, climbing nearly 4,000 vertical feet to the 14,264-foot summit of Mt. Blue Sky. The course provides breathtaking scenery as it winds through montane, subalpine, and alpine environments, often above treeline, where bighorn sheep, marmots, and mountain goats are common spectators. This race is uniquely challenging due to the continuous climb at extreme altitudes, pushing runners' limits in thin air. Four fully stocked aid stations, positioned approximately every three miles, offer water, energy drinks, gels, and snacks to support your ascent.

For safety and an unmatched experience, the Mt. Blue Sky Auto Road is entirely closed to vehicular traffic during the event. Typical race day conditions in late June bring highs around 77°F and lows around 46°F at the base, with generally clear mornings, though mountain weather can be unpredictable and windy at higher elevations, so dressing in layers is advised. Finishers receive a custom medal, and those achieving specific times can earn a coveted "Trophy Rock". The Blue Sky Ascent & Round Trip is more than just a race; it's a profound test of endurance and a truly unforgettable mountain experience.