Course Overview
The Continental Divide Trail Run 50K covers just over 29 miles of high-altitude terrain around Steamboat Springs in late August. Starting and finishing near 7,000 feet, the course climbs to over 10,400 feet with roughly 3,400 feet of total elevation gain across challenging mountain terrain. The route takes runners through varied Colorado mountain landscapes, moving from lower elevation forests up to exposed alpine zones near treeline. You'll pass through areas like Rainbow Saddle and climb to Mt. Werner Summit, experiencing the transition from dense forest cover to open, high-altitude terrain where weather can change quickly. Much of the course runs on technical mountain trails with limited vehicle access—crew support is only available at Rainbow Saddle. The race operates as a cupless event, so runners need to bring their own hydration containers for aid station refills. This race suits experienced mountain runners comfortable with sustained climbing, high altitude, and strict cutoff times enforced for safety. Runners who thrive on technical terrain and don't mind carrying extra gear will feel at home here. Those new to altitude or long mountain efforts might find the combination of elevation, distance, and limited support challenging.