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Summer Running in Steamboat Springs, Colorado

By
Real Estate Agent with The Group, Inc

Even before the ski area closes, many Steamboat Springs locals are preparing for the summer running season. Road or trail, full or half marathon, recreational or competitive, whatever your running preference the town has something for you. I guess its not that surprising when you think of how many outdoor and athletic oriented companies are based here - Big Agnes, Honey Stinger, Smartwool, PowerICE, and Point 6, just to name a few.

Rocky Peak Ultra Fun Run, Courtesy of Endurance Changes Time

Rocky Peak Ultra Fun Run, Courtesy of Endurance Changes Time

If you are local or if you are thinking of bringing your running shoes on your summer vacation, here's some events that might pique your interest:

If you are looking for some motivation, the Twisted Trails Beer Runs are a great chance to get a run in and enjoy a beer afterwards. Typically the run is about 3 miles on both the downtown paved trails and local dirt trails, depending on conditions. All ability levels are welcome as both a faster pace group and a slow group (including run-walk) set out.

The Steamboat Springs Running Series has 12 events in Summer 2016 ranging from fun runs to half marathons to 100 mile ultra's, in and around the Steamboat Springs area. Kicking off on May 7th with the Hayden Cog Run, the series begins with road running events then progresses to trail running events after the snow is gone.

Steamboat Marathon

Steamboat Marathon, Courtesty of Steamboat Springs Chamber Resort Association

One of the most celebrated events is the Steamboat Marathon (full, half, 10k and fun run) which will be held on June 5th, 2016. Last year Runners World listed the half marathon event in its Bucket List: 10 Destination Half Marathons. Beginning at Hahns Peak Village, runners follow the roaring Elk River past green fields and snow capped mountains, ending in downtown Steamboat Springs. Registration is required for all Steamboat Marathon events with the exception of the fun run, click here to register.

Stagecoach State Park

Stagecoach State Park, Courtesy of Andrew Dean

If you would rather try some of the local trails without doing an event there are lots of options. Emerald Mountain, Spring Creek Trail and Steamboat Ski Area are popular trails, just to name a few. If you'd like to try something different check out Stagecoach State Park, the loop of the reservoir on mostly gravel trails is around 11 miles. To the north of town and bordering the Zirkel Wilderness Area, check out Mad Creek Trail with its endless views to keep you motivated.

And if running isn't your thing, I'd be happy to give you some other suggestions. There is always lots to do in our wonderful town!

Regards, Charlie

Want to learn more about me? Charlie Dresen

Change Your Experience

Real Estate Associate Broker | Sotheby's

970-846-6435 | SteamboatsMyHome.com

610 Market Place Plaza, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 

Gayle Rich-Boxman Fishhawk Lake Real Estate
John L Scott Market Center - Birkenfeld, OR
"Your Local Expert!" 503-739-3843

Wow, is this a runner's dream or what??? I remember past city runs that I did that had the beer reward at the end. What fun that was. I run a lot of trails, high altitude and straight up for the first half...the dogs and I really enjoy the turn-around to come down for the second half. Do any runners have problems with your altitude??

Great pictures, too, Charlie!

May 05, 2016 01:05 PM
Charlie Dresen

Altitude can definately be a problem for those not used to it - downtown Steamboat is around 7000 ft. Acclimation is key!

May 06, 2016 12:56 AM