Course Overview
The Silverton Alpine 8 Miler is an out-and-back trail run in Colorado's San Juan Mountains, starting at 9,318 feet in the historic mining town of Silverton. The July race follows jeep roads for 8.4 miles to Howardsville and back, with a modest 382 feet of elevation gain that keeps the focus on high-altitude running rather than grinding climbs. The course runs along the Alpine Loop jeep roads, giving runners a taste of the same terrain used by the longer distances. You'll head out through mountain terrain toward the ghost town of Howardsville, with views of the surrounding peaks and remnants of Colorado's mining history. The route is mostly on wide jeep roads, though summer OHV traffic can create dusty conditions—organizers recommend bringing a bandana or neck gaiter. This race works well for runners looking for a shorter mountain experience without major elevation challenges, though the 9,300+ foot starting altitude will be noticeable for those not accustomed to thin air. The 5.5-hour cutoff is generous for the distance, making this accessible to runners who want to experience high-country trail running without the commitment of a longer mountain race.