The Spirit Trail Run, set for May 24, 2026, invites runners to experience a fun, beautiful, yet challenging trail race through the stunning landscapes of Buena Vista, Colorado. As a family-run event since 2014, the race has grown into a cherished annual community gathering, coinciding with the lively CKS Paddlefest, offering participants and their supporters a weekend full of outdoor adventure. With marathon (26.2M), half marathon (13.1M), and 9K options, there's a distance for a range of trail enthusiasts to explore the intricate Buena Vista Trail system. A portion of race proceeds is dedicated to the BV Singletrack Coalition, supporting the maintenance and creation of Buena Vista's world-class singletrack network.

The courses are renowned for their rolling, often technical terrain, winding through pure singletrack trails, interspersed with dirt roads, and consistently delivering panoramic views of the Collegiate Peaks. Expect a dynamic challenge with moderate elevation gains, including a stout climb from the river for the 9K (approximately 700 feet of gain) and around 2,600 to 3,000 feet of elevation gain for the marathon. Starting and finishing near the Surf Hotel and South Main Street area, runners will traverse portions of the River Park Trails, Whipple Trails, the Broken Boyfriend, Midland Grade, Fist Full Of Dollars, and Django Loops, all while taking in some of Colorado's best scenery at an altitude of nearly 8,000 feet.

Runners can anticipate a well-supported experience, with aid stations providing ice-cold water, soda, electrolyte drinks like Tailwind, along with pretzels, fruit, cookies, and Huma gels. The marathon course features five aid stations, the half marathon has three, and the 9K will have two on-course aid stations plus one at the start/finish. Upon crossing the finish line, participants are welcomed with awards, food, drinks, and a celebratory atmosphere, typically under conditions of highs around 70F and lows around 38F, with only a 5% chance of precipitation.