Get ready to challenge yourself at the Nielson Two Mile Challenge, a beloved monthly fixture for runners in Colorado Springs, CO. Taking place on May 2, 2026, this 2-mile trail race offers a unique and engaging experience for participants of all abilities within the scenic North Monument Valley Park. The course itself is a flat, inviting mix of dirt and gravel trails, featuring a starting elevation of 6100 feet and a high point of 6300 feet, promising a fast and enjoyable run through beautiful park scenery. Runners will navigate an elongated loop for the first mile, traversing across a stone bridge and alongside Monument Creek, before tackling an out-n-back section for the second mile.

What truly sets the Nielson Two Mile Challenge apart is its distinctive handicap system, a long-standing tradition since its inception in the late 1970s. Rather than simply racing against the clock, you'll compete against your own handicap time, which is calculated based on your previous results. This innovative format is designed to reward improvement, offering an encouraging atmosphere where beginning runners and those focusing on quality training often find themselves with a strong chance to win a coveted Nielson shirt. Established runners also appreciate the consistent course as an excellent monthly gauge of their fitness.

Organized by the Pikes Peak Road Runners, this event starts promptly at 8:00 AM. While online pre-registration is required, with no race-day sign-ups, those with a "Forever Bib" are already pre-registered, making participation seamless. Held on the first Saturday of each month, the May edition kicks off the Pikes Peak Road Runners' Summer Series. Typical race day conditions in early May feature comfortable highs around 64°F and lows around 38°F, with only a 7% chance of precipitation, providing ideal running weather for this engaging 2-mile challenge.