Course Overview
The Bobcat 25K runs 15.3 miles through Palmer Park, an urban wilderness area in Colorado Springs. Starting at 7:30 AM in mid-October, runners have 9.5 hours to complete the course, which gains about 1,800 feet of elevation and reaches a maximum elevation of 6,590 feet. The route travels through diverse terrain within the city park, moving between forested sections and rocky bluffs that offer views of Colorado Springs and Pikes Peak. Palmer Park sits right in the heart of the city but provides a genuine trail experience with technical single-track sections, rolling terrain, and rocky outcroppings. The course is well-marked but features multiple trail junctions where different race distances split off, so navigation awareness is important. Aid stations appear roughly every 3-5 miles, with crew access limited to the start/finish area. This race works well for runners looking for a solid trail challenge without traveling far from urban amenities. The moderate elevation gain and generous time limit make it accessible for newer trail runners, while the technical terrain and distance provide enough challenge for experienced runners. Those who prefer remote wilderness experiences might find the urban park setting less appealing, but runners who enjoy well-maintained trails with consistent footing and reliable logistics will feel comfortable here.