Royal Gorge Groove 13K 2026

The Royal Gorge Groove 13K is a trail run held in late April near Cañon City, Colorado, starting and finishing at Royal Gorge Ranch & Resort. With just 323 feet of elevation gain and a maximum elevation of 6,360 feet, this is an accessible trail race that offers scenic views without demanding technical terrain or major climbing. The course runs along the rim of the Royal Gorge, 900 feet above the Arkansas River, providing expansive views of the canyon and surrounding Colorado landscape. April weather in the area is typically cool, though snow remains possible—welcome to Colorado spring running. The route itself is straightforward, with minimal elevation change spread across the 8-mile distance, making it more about enjoying the scenery than grinding through challenging terrain. This race works well for runners looking for a shorter trail experience with beautiful views but without the commitment of significant elevation or technical challenges. It's a solid option for those new to trail running, runners wanting a scenic workout without major suffering, or anyone seeking a more relaxed trail experience in the Royal Gorge area. The generous 10-hour cutoff means the focus is clearly on participation rather than speed.