Emerald Mountain Epic Trail 2026

Emerald Mountain Epic Trail 2026

Presented by Emerald Mountain Epic
Trail Running
Steamboat Springs, CO
Aug 1–2, 2026
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About This Event

The Emerald Mountain Epic Trail runs on Sunday as part of a two-day mountain bike and trail running festival that draws thousands to Steamboat Springs. While Saturday belongs to the mountain bikers, Sunday’s trail running event offers both full and half marathon distances that attract everyone from first-timers to elite athletes seeking to test themselves on technical Rocky Mountain terrain.

The course delivers what organizers call a trail runner’s dream: 90% singletrack winding through open meadows, aspen forests, and wild sage gardens with panoramic views of surrounding peaks and valleys. The full marathon mirrors the mountain bike route at 26.2 miles with 3,300 feet of elevation gain, starting from Howelsen Hill Ski Area and venturing deep into Routt County’s backcountry. The half marathon cuts out Ridge Trail, Cow Creek, and Beall Trail sections, reducing elevation gain to 1,500 feet.

Four Strava segment challenges add competitive elements throughout the course: Little Moab’s technical rocky descent, Alchemy Body & Bike Hill Climb’s punchy singletrack ascent, Glas Deffryn Ranch Sprint’s two-mile road section, and Epic High Point’s grueling 6.5-mile climb to panoramic views.

Aid stations stock Honey Stinger products alongside chips, pretzels, cookies, trail mix, bananas, mini dill pickles, and Coca-Cola, with volunteers helping fill hydration bottles. Awards recognize top finishers in men’s and women’s full and half marathon categories, plus special “Royalty of the ‘Boat” recognition for athletes competing in both weekend events.

The festival atmosphere combines serious competition with community celebration, as race proceeds support local nonprofits Partners in Routt County and Routt County Riders.


Emerald Mountain Epic

Event Organizer
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The Emerald Mountain Epic is a well-regarded organization based in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, that produces two of the most celebrated endurance events in the region: the Emerald Mountain Epic MTB and the Emerald Mountain Epic Trail races. These events are part of a broader festival that attracts athletes from across the country to experience the challenging and scenic terrain of Emerald Mountain.

Emerald Mountain Epic MTB

The Emerald Mountain Epic MTB is a highly popular mountain biking event, considered one of the best in Colorado and the Rockies. This event, held annually, offers a rigorous course with over 50 miles of nearly 90% singletrack terrain, featuring significant elevation gains. Riders navigate through beautiful meadows, aspen forests, and sage gardens, with the course including challenging sections like the “Little Moab” rocky descent and the grueling “Epic High Point” climb. This event is known for its festive atmosphere and inclusive nature, catering to elite and amateur riders, and is a key event on the mountain biking calendar​ (Strambecco).

Emerald Mountain Epic Trail

The trail running counterpart, the Emerald Mountain Epic Trail, is equally celebrated, drawing runners for full and half-marathon distances. Like the MTB event, the trail race features a course of about 90% singletrack, offering runners a journey through stunning natural landscapes with substantial elevation changes. The race is part of the same weekend festival and shares much of the same course as the MTB race, making it a true test of endurance. This event is praised for its competitive spirit and the support it provides to all levels of runners​ (Strambecco).

Both events are organized with a strong commitment to the community, with proceeds supporting local nonprofits. They also emphasize environmental stewardship, ensuring that participants enjoy the race and contribute to preserving Steamboat Springs’ beautiful surroundings. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a beginner, the Emerald Mountain Epic offers an unforgettable experience in one of Colorado’s most picturesque settings.

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