Experience the unparalleled beauty of Colorado Springs with the "Take 5 in the Garden" race on May 2, 2026. This event offers a unique opportunity to run traffic-free through the iconic Garden of the Gods Park, immersing yourself in breathtaking vistas of its famous red rock formations like the Siamese Twins, Kissing Camels, and Balanced Rock, all set against the majestic backdrop of snow-capped Pikes Peak. Choose your adventure from a variety of distances, including a 5K Road, 5-Mile Road, 5-Mile Trail, or challenge yourself with the "Double Take" 9.5-mile road/trail combo.

The courses, starting and finishing on Gateway Road off 30th Street, are known for their moderate yet engaging elevation changes. Runners tackling the 5K Road will encounter a "quite hilly" course with a significant climb in the first mile and a "screaming fast downhill" finish, accumulating around 325 feet of elevation gain. The 5-Mile Road race features approximately 646 feet of gain, characterized by a long uphill start followed by fast descents and rolling sections. For those who prefer a more rugged experience, the 5-Mile Trail offers 482 feet of elevation gain across natural trails. The ultimate challenge, the 9.5-mile Double Take, combines both road and trail segments with a total elevation gain of 1065 feet. Aid and water stops are strategically placed along all courses to support runners, with one on the 5K, four on the 5-mile road, three on the 5-mile trail, and seven on the Double Take.

Typical race day conditions in early May feature comfortable highs around 64°F and lows around 38°F, with a minimal 7% chance of precipitation, providing ideal weather for a memorable race experience. Past participants consistently praise the challenging hills and unparalleled scenery, often describing it as one of "America's Most Beautiful Park" and a "must-do" race. The "Take 5 in the Garden" is more than just a race; it's an opportunity to connect with nature's grandeur while pushing your limits in a truly unforgettable setting.