Get ready to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Colorado Rockies at the Fall Equinox Marathon on September 20, 2026, in Fort Collins, CO. This highly-regarded event offers a full marathon (26.2M) and a half marathon (13.1M), drawing runners to its famously scenic and fast downhill, point-to-point courses. Renowned as "one of the best races in Colorado," participants can anticipate running during the height of vibrant fall colors, making for an unforgettable visual journey along Colorado's only designated Wild & Scenic Poudre River.

The marathon, often called "Beautifully Brutal," begins with approximately five challenging, hilly miles in the Buckhorn Canyon before opening up to a thrilling 21-mile descent through the Poudre River Canyon, offering significant personal record (PR) potential. The half marathon, dubbed "Wild & Scenic," is a predominantly downhill course, starting at the iconic Mishawaka Amphitheatre, a legendary music venue nestled alongside the Poudre River. Both courses feature paved roads (with a minimal unpaved section for the marathon start) and immerse runners in stunning forested landscapes and canyon vistas. Typical race day conditions in late September offer agreeable weather, with average highs around 77°F and lows near 47°F, and only a 5% chance of precipitation.

Runners are well-supported with aid stations every few miles, providing water, electrolyte drinks, first aid, and portable toilets. Marathoners will find 10 aid stations, while half marathoners will have 5. The finish line for all distances awaits at the base of Poudre Canyon, culminating in an energetic post-race party. Celebrate your accomplishment with live music, local beers, food, and unique finisher medals and custom pint cups. Free bus transportation to the start lines and back from the finish area ensures a smooth race day experience.