Ultramarathons in Granby
Discover ultramarathon and trail running races in Granby, Colorado. View course maps, elevation profiles, and explore race results.
Discover ultramarathon and trail running races in Granby, Colorado. View course maps, elevation profiles, and explore race results.
The Snow Mountain Ranch 50K takes place in September at the YMCA of the Rockies near Granby, Colorado. This is a three-loop format covering roughly 31 miles, with each 10.4-mile loop gaining about 1,400 feet of elevation for a total of 4,236 feet of climbing. The course runs entirely on dirt trails and reaches a maximum elevation of 9,844 feet. Each loop features a sustained climb from miles 3-6, which becomes a significant mental and physical challenge as fatigue builds through the day. The route moves through high-altitude terrain with three aid stations per loop, and runners must start their final loop by the 6-hour mark to finish within the 8.5-hour cutoff. September weather at this elevation can be unpredictable, so layers are typically necessary for the early morning start. This race suits runners comfortable with sustained climbing at altitude and the mental demands of repetitive loops. The relatively short loops mean you'll see the start/finish area frequently, which some find motivating and others find taxing. If you struggle with altitude or prefer varied scenery throughout a long race, this might not be your best fit. Pacers are allowed on the final loop only, starting around mile 21.
The Snow Mountain Ranch 33K covers 20.2 miles of dirt and grass trails through the Colorado Rockies near Granby, with runners tackling two loops that climb to 9,844 feet. The course format features an out-and-back with lollipop sections, gaining roughly 2,400 feet total with the major climbing happening between miles 3-6 on each loop. September conditions at this altitude can bring anything from warm sunshine to sudden weather changes, so preparation matters. The route moves through classic Colorado high country terrain—rolling hills, meadows, and forested sections that showcase fall colors. Seven aid stations provide support throughout the two-loop journey, with drop bags available at the start/finish area between loops. This race suits runners comfortable with sustained climbing at altitude and those who don't mind repeating terrain. The 8-hour time limit allows for a steady pace, but the elevation and loop format create cumulative fatigue that can surprise runners new to high-altitude racing. If you enjoy mountain views and can handle thin air, the course delivers solid trail running without excessive technical challenges.
The Snow Mountain Ranch Half Marathon takes place in September at the YMCA of the Rockies in Granby, Colorado, covering 13.1 miles on entirely dirt trails. This out-and-back course with two lollipop sections climbs to 8,640 feet elevation, with the main challenge coming between miles 3-6 where runners gain most of the route's 1,707 feet of elevation. The course moves through high-altitude terrain in the Colorado Rockies, offering views of rolling hills and changing autumn colors. Runners will encounter dirt trails and grass sections throughout, with four aid stations providing support along the way. The September timing typically brings cooler mountain temperatures, though conditions can vary significantly at this elevation. This race suits runners comfortable with sustained climbing and high-altitude conditions. The generous time limit accommodates a range of paces, but the elevation gain and thinner air at altitude will challenge even experienced trail runners. Those who prefer flatter courses or struggle with elevation may find this more demanding than typical half marathons.
The Snow Mountain Ranch 10K in Granby, Colorado covers 6.2 miles of dirt trails with 653 feet of climbing. This single-loop course features an out-and-back format with two lollipop sections, hitting two main climbs between miles 1-2 and 3-4 before reaching a maximum elevation of 8,880 feet. Running at altitude in September, you'll move through varied terrain on well-established dirt trails around the YMCA of the Rockies property. The course design keeps things interesting with direction changes and different views as you work through the lollipop sections. Two aid stations provide support along the way, with the main checkpoint at North Pole around mile 2. This works well for runners comfortable with moderate climbing at elevation who want a solid workout without committing to a longer distance. The 5+ hour time limit is generous, but the altitude and rolling terrain will demand respect even over this shorter distance. Those sensitive to elevation or looking for a flat course should consider their comfort level above 9,000 feet.
The Snow Mountain Ranch 5K covers roughly 3.3 miles on dirt trails at the YMCA of the Rockies in Granby, Colorado, starting at 9:00 AM in mid-September. Despite the "5K" name, this is closer to a 10K distance with a 5-hour time limit, featuring an out-and-back route that reaches a maximum elevation of 8,844 feet. The course includes two significant climbs between miles 1-2 and 3-4, gaining about 450 feet total over rolling terrain. Runners will find the route stays entirely on dirt trails through high-altitude terrain. September conditions at this elevation can vary significantly, so be prepared for potential weather changes throughout the morning. This works well for runners comfortable with moderate climbing at altitude who don't mind a longer-than-expected "5K." The generous time limit makes it accessible for those wanting to experience high-altitude trail running without committing to the longer distances offered at this festival, though the elevation and actual distance make it more challenging than a typical 5K.