Course Overview
The Bobcat Trail Races 5K takes place in mid-October at Palmer Park, right in Colorado Springs. This 3.7-mile trail run offers about 400 feet of climbing with a max elevation around 6,555 feet, making it accessible but still engaging for trail runners. The course winds through Palmer Park's diverse terrain, moving between forested sections and rocky outcrops with views of the city and Pikes Peak. You'll experience a mix of single-track trail and varied surfaces as you navigate this urban park system. The route is well-marked with orange ribbon and laminated signs, though runners should still pay attention at trail junctions since multiple race distances share parts of the course. October conditions are typically favorable, though weather can shift quickly in Colorado. This works well for runners looking to try trail racing without committing to a huge distance, or for experienced trail runners wanting a shorter, scenic effort. The modest elevation gain and accessible distance make it approachable for road runners curious about trails, while the technical sections and altitude still provide a solid challenge. If you prefer longer sustained climbs or remote wilderness settings, you might find this too brief and urban.