Prepare for an epic test of grit and spirit at the Laramie Peak Endurance Challenge, set for July 11, 2026, in the rugged beauty of Douglas, Wyoming. This event offers a true backcountry mountain challenge with 24-hour and 12-hour endurance formats, alongside a single summit option for those seeking a formidable ascent without the continuous laps. Starting and finishing at the welcoming Friend Park Campground in the Medicine Bow National Forest, runners will tackle a demanding 9-mile loop per lap, featuring nearly 3,000 feet of vertical gain and loss. The course is a relentless journey through dense pine forests, technical rocky mule deer paths, narrow ridgelines, and granite outcrops, culminating in breathtaking, sweeping views over the Laramie Range from nearly 10,000 feet. Typical race day conditions in mid-July bring highs around 90°F and lows around 55°F, with only a 4% chance of precipitation, though runners should be prepared for rapidly changing mountain weather and high altitude.

This "brutal" yet "beautiful" challenge is designed to push participants to their mental and physical limits, emphasizing self-sufficiency and strategic aid station use. The Basecamp Aid Station at Friend Park Campground serves as the central hub and the only aid station on the course, providing essential support as runners return between laps. Medical coverage from the Douglas Volunteer Fire Department ensures a safe environment, but runners are advised to manage their nutrition, using the aid station for supplemental fuel. What truly sets the Laramie Peak Endurance Challenge apart is its profound mission: partnering with the Warrior Trail Foundation, it champions the healing power of trail running as recreational therapy for veterans and their families, supporting those who have bravely served our nation.

Embrace the camaraderie of an alpine basecamp and the profound personal achievement of conquering one of Wyoming's most iconic mountains. Whether you're aiming for multiple summits in the 24-hour or 12-hour challenges, or simply looking to experience the full Laramie Peak ascent, this race promises unforgettable views and a deep sense of accomplishment, all while contributing to a meaningful cause.