Prepare for an exhilarating challenge and breathtaking scenery at the Box Canyon Trail Races, set to unfold on July 25, 2026, in the stunning mountain town of Telluride, Colorado. This high-alpine event offers two formidable distances: a 30K and a 10-mile race, both renowned for their demanding courses and unparalleled views of the San Juan Mountains. Runners can expect typical race day conditions with highs around 79°F and lows around 53°F, and a 14% chance of precipitation, emphasizing the need for preparedness for varied mountain weather.

The Box Canyon 30K is a tough, scenic loop featuring approximately 5,800 feet of vertical gain, guiding runners past iconic landmarks such as Bridal Veil Falls and the historic Smuggler-Union Hydroelectric Plant. The course ascends into vast alpine meadows, reaching its high point at an astounding 13,000 feet on Wasatch Junction, before a dreamy singletrack descent through Upper Bear Creek. The 10-mile race, with about 3,500 feet of elevation gain, ascends the deep Bear Creek Canyon, climbing to the top of Telluride Ski Resort where runners are rewarded with massive, 360-degree panoramic vistas. Both distances traverse a mix of rough double track, old 4x4 roads, and technical alpine single-track, making them unsuitable for beginner trail runners.

Starting and finishing at the Town of Telluride Gondola Plaza, these races are more than just a test of endurance; they are an immersive experience in the heart of Colorado's wilderness. Aid stations are strategically placed along the routes, offering standard provisions like fruit, snacks, water, Tailwind, and even simple hot foods such as potatoes or broth, ensuring runners are well-supported through this challenging high-altitude terrain. With a reputation for being both beautiful and incredibly demanding, the Box Canyon Trail Races promise an unforgettable adventure for experienced trail runners.