Course Overview
The Ram Party 15K covers just over 9 miles on an out-and-back course from Buffalo Lodge in Colorado Springs. Starting at 7:30 AM in mid-May, this race takes runners through part of the Garden of the Gods area before heading out toward the Rampart Range, with one aid station at Glen Eyre along the way. The course involves some climbing as it works toward the foothills, though it stays on the lower end of the elevation range compared to the longer distances that venture higher into the mountains. Expect a mix of terrain that includes portions near the famous red rock formations early on, then transitions toward more open country as you head out toward the turnaround. The route follows established trails and roads, making for relatively straightforward navigation. May temperatures can vary significantly between the start area and higher elevations, so layers are worth considering even for this shorter distance. This works well for runners looking to experience some of Colorado's Front Range scenery without committing to the serious climbing and mileage of the longer options. The 10.5-hour cutoff is generous for the distance, making it accessible for newer trail runners or those treating it as a strong training effort rather than an all-out race.