Get ready to experience the authentic spirit of mountain running at the Creede Mountain Run, set for September 5, 2026, in the historic mining town of Creede, Colorado. This cherished regional event, established in 1987, offers an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking San Juan Mountains, with distances including a challenging 50K, 22-mile, 12-mile, and a scenic 2-mile run. The race begins right in the heart of Creede, with runners making their way down Main Street as the town awakens, offering a truly "Euro style" start and finish that immerses participants in the local charm. Typical race day conditions in early September see comfortable highs around 84°F and lows near 49°F, with a low chance of precipitation.

Each course promises a unique adventure, starting at Creede's 8,850-foot elevation and quickly climbing into rugged, scenic terrain. The longer distances, particularly the 22-miler and 50K, push runners to astounding heights, with the 22-mile course ascending to the Continental Divide, topping out near 12,500 feet. Expect to traverse progressively more rugged jeep roads, navigating sections aptly named "the Pitch" and "Heartbreak Hill," and experiencing steep climbs like "The Ladders" on talus-filled doubletrack. The 12-miler rounds out the historic Bachelor Loop, while the 50K adds a beautiful single-track segment along Miners Creek, all providing dramatic vistas of towering rock formations, waterfalls, and historic mining sites.

The Creede Mountain Run is celebrated for its distinct homegrown atmosphere, drawing runners back year after year. Aid stations are amply stocked with essentials like water, M&Ms, bananas, and orange slices, ensuring runners are well-supported on their high-altitude quest. Instead of traditional medals, finishers are uniquely awarded amethyst "finishers' stones" sourced from local mines, a fitting tribute to the area's rich heritage. This event is less about intense competition and more about the shared experience of conquering the San Juans, offering a relaxed yet incredibly rewarding challenge for all who toe the line.