Course Overview
The North Fork 50 Mile takes place in late May near Buffalo Creek, Colorado, about 50 miles southwest of Denver. This single-loop course covers roughly 49 miles with 6,400 feet of climbing, running entirely on soft surface trails through the Pike National Forest at elevations between 6,700 and 8,500 feet. The route winds through a mix of terrain that tells the story of the 1996 Buffalo Creek fire. You'll start among ponderosa pines along Buffalo Creek, then climb through open burn areas where the landscape remains stark but offers expansive views of granite rock formations and distant peaks. The course alternates between shaded forest sections and exposed areas, with mostly runnable singletrack and occasional double track segments. Aid stations are well-spaced, with the notable feature being two visits to the Buffalo Creek aid station that allow for drop bag access at miles 28 and 38. Runners comfortable with moderate mountain terrain and altitude will find this course challenging but manageable, while the 14-hour cutoff provides room for those newer to mountain ultras. The May timing means variable weather is possible—from cool mornings to warm afternoons—and the burn areas offer little shade during midday heat. This works well for runners seeking a mountain ultra without extreme technicality, though those sensitive to altitude or heat should plan accordingly.