Ultramarathons in Crested Butte
Discover ultramarathon and trail running races in Crested Butte, Colorado. View course maps, elevation profiles, and explore race results.
Discover ultramarathon and trail running races in Crested Butte, Colorado. View course maps, elevation profiles, and explore race results.
The Crested Butte Ultra 50 Mile takes runners through Colorado's Gunnison National Forest in late September, when fall colors compete with the big mountain views for attention. Starting and finishing at 8,800 feet, the course climbs to over 11,000 feet with roughly 8,300 feet of total elevation gain, moving through varied terrain from wildflower meadows at lower elevations to exposed ridgelines near treeline. The route follows primarily singletrack trails through mountain meadows and up to high ridges, offering the kind of wide-open views Colorado is known for. Runners pass through different ecological zones as they climb and descend, with shade becoming limited at higher elevations. Seven aid stations are positioned throughout the course, including drop bag access at mile 29.5 and 41, though this is a cupless event requiring runners to carry their own reusable cup. This race suits runners comfortable with sustained climbing at altitude and variable mountain weather in late September. The elevation and technical terrain demand respect, while the scenery provides motivation during the longer climbs. Runners who enjoy high-altitude challenges and don't mind cooler fall temperatures will find plenty to appreciate, though those sensitive to altitude or preferring flatter, faster courses might want to look elsewhere.
The Crested Butte Ultra 55K covers roughly 34 miles through Colorado's Gunnison National Forest in late September. This out-and-back style course climbs 4,567 feet from a starting elevation of 8,822 feet up to 11,290 feet, meaning you'll feel the altitude whether you're used to it or not. The route follows singletrack trails through mountain meadows and up to exposed ridgelines, with wide-open views that help distract from the steady climbing. Expect to move between shaded forest sections and more exposed terrain as you work toward the high point. Fall colors should be near peak in late September, though weather can be unpredictable at this elevation and time of year. The course uses a cupless format, so plan to carry your own reusable cup for the five aid stations. Runners comfortable with sustained climbing at altitude will find plenty to enjoy here, while those new to high-elevation racing might find the combination of distance and elevation more challenging than expected. The late-season timing means cooler temperatures but also the possibility of weather shifts, so come prepared for mountain conditions.
The Crested Butte Ultra 35K covers 21.7 miles through Colorado's Gunnison National Forest in late September, when fall colors are typically at their peak. Starting and finishing at 8,822 feet with a high point just under 10,000 feet, the course features 2,280 feet of climbing that feels manageable for the distance. The route takes runners through classic Colorado mountain terrain — singletrack trails winding through alpine meadows, forest sections, and open ridgelines with expansive views. Much of the course stays at moderate elevation, avoiding the lung-searing climbs of the longer distances. September timing means you'll likely encounter brilliant aspen displays alongside late-season wildflowers, though mountain weather can shift quickly at altitude. The course includes four aid stations with standard ultra fare, and this is a cupless event requiring runners to bring their own hydration vessel. This distance works well for runners stepping up to longer trail distances or those who prefer sustained effort over extreme climbing. The moderate elevation gain and runnable terrain suit runners comfortable with mountain conditions but not necessarily seeking a sufferfest. If you're altitude-sensitive or prefer technical terrain, this might feel less engaging than Colorado's gnarlier offerings.