Pikes Peak APEX 2026
About This Event
This three-day mountain bike stage race attracts professionals and amateurs from around the world, competing for a $25,000 prize purse. Produced by the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation, the event strikes a balance between challenging terrain and accessibility, making it less technical than events like Leadville 100 while still delivering a serious endurance test in the Colorado Rockies.
The race begins with a 45-60 minute prologue time trial, followed by two demanding stages of up to 40 miles each. Stage 1 covers 11.5 miles with 927 feet of climbing through Palmer Park’s slickrock sandstone and purpose-built flow trails, with the park reserved exclusively for participants. Stage 2 presents the biggest challenge: 30 miles and over 4,000 feet of climbing starting in Woodland Park, traversing Lovell Gulch singletrack and climbing the Shubarth Trail below Rampart Reservoir dam. The final stage winds 21.1 miles with 4,034 feet of elevation gain from downtown Colorado Springs through Bear Creek Regional Park, up High Drive, and across the technical trails of Daniels Pass and Captain Jacks.
The course combines alpine singletrack, dirt roads, and jeep trails without overly technical sections, making it approachable for strong amateurs while still attracting elite riders. Aid stations with food and beverages are positioned strategically on stages 2 and 3, with REI mechanics available for technical support.
Riders can participate in single days or the full three-day challenge. The post-race celebration at America the Beautiful Park features complimentary Fat Tire beers, and stage winners in Men/Open and Women categories earn $100 prizes. A 5K and 10K trail run option is available on Sunday for non-cyclists.
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