When is The Grand Traverse?

The Grand Traverse takes place on Mar 29, 2026. That's in 1 month.

Where is The Grand Traverse located?

The Grand Traverse is held in Crested Butte, Colorado, United States.

What distances are available at The Grand Traverse?

The Grand Traverse offers the following distances: 80M, 40M.

How do I register for The Grand Traverse?

You can register for The Grand Traverse through the official registration page.

What is the typical weather for The Grand Traverse?

Based on historical data, you can expect temperatures between 13°F and 43°F on race day. There's approximately a 9% chance of precipitation.

The Grand Traverse (40M-80M) - Mar 29, 2026 | Crested Butte, CO

Embark on an epic journey across the formidable Elk Mountains with The Grand Traverse, a legendary point-to-point race set to challenge endurance athletes on March 29, 2026. Kicking off from Crested Butte, Colorado, this iconic event offers distances of 40 miles and a supreme challenge extending up to 80 miles, traversing the rugged, high-alpine terrain to a finish in Aspen.

The Grand Traverse is renowned for its demanding course, which typically sees competitors climbing over 6,800 to 7,800 vertical feet through wild, remote backcountry. Following historic 1880s mail routes that once connected these two mountain towns, the race offers breathtaking scenery and a truly immersive wilderness experience. What makes this event truly unique is its midnight start, a tradition designed to mitigate avalanche hazards, and the requirement for participants to race with a partner while carrying mandatory safety gear. Typical race day conditions in late March include highs around 43°F and lows around 13°F, with a slight 8% chance of precipitation, ensuring a bitterly cold and unforgettable test of grit, especially at elevations exceeding 12,000 feet.

Hailed as North America's most time-honored point-to-point ski race and a "bucket-list" accomplishment, The Grand Traverse is more than just a competition; it's a "proving ground for endurance ski athletes" and a deeply impactful experience for all who undertake it. Runners often describe the course as making it "difficult, if not impossible, to settle into a rhythm," highlighting the continuous challenge of its varied terrain. Finishing this extraordinary traverse is a monumental achievement, leaving participants with a profound sense of accomplishment amidst the stunning backdrop of the Colorado Rockies.