Set against the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, the Sage Burner Trail Run returns to Gunnison, Colorado, on October 3, 2026, offering an exhilarating challenge across its 50K, 28K, and 15K distances. Hosted within the unique Hartman Rocks Recreation Area, runners will navigate a high desert landscape renowned for its sagebrush-covered hills and breathtaking 360-degree views of the Maroon Bells, San Juan Mountains, and the Gunnison Basin. This event, first established in 2008, has earned a reputation for being a deceptively tough course, inviting runners of all levels to test their endurance.

The Sage Burner course presents a diverse mix of terrain, featuring technical slickrock, flowing singletrack, and sections of doubletrack, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience. Runners can expect rolling hills and punchy climbs, with the 50K distance involving substantial elevation changes, including over 4,000 feet of ascent and descent, at altitudes starting around 7,700 feet. This exposed course, with little tree cover, demands constant attention and strategic hydration. Typical race day conditions in early October offer crisp mornings with lows around 28F, warming to comfortable highs of 66F, and a minimal 3% chance of precipitation.

Participants frequently highlight the rewarding challenge and expansive views of the Sage Burner. Aid stations are well-supported, providing necessary sustenance to keep runners moving through the rugged landscape. All entrants are celebrated with a commemorative finisher's medal and a Sage Burner Trail Race running hat by BOCO Gear, alongside a Hydrapak reusable cup as part of the race's sustainable efforts. Partnering with initiatives like the Youth Trail Running Initiative and Trail Sisters, the Sage Burner fosters inclusivity within the trail running community. Prepare for an unforgettable autumn adventure that promises a true test of grit amidst Colorado's spectacular high desert beauty.