Blue Sky Trail Marathon & Half Marathon - Blue Sky Trail Half Marathon
Race facts
- Start time
- 7:00 AM
- Distances
- Marathon, Half Marathon
- Entry fee
- from $110Marathon: $110 (Dec 15-Feb 28), $120 (Mar 1-Jun 30), $130 (Jul 1-Oct 16), $145 (Packet Pickup). Half Marathon: $90 (Dec 15-Feb 28), $100 (Mar 1-Jun 30), $110 (Jul 1-Oct 16). Fees apply.
- Terrain
- Trail, singletrack, dirt road, rocky
- Elevation gain
- 1,067 m
- Cutoff
- 9 hours (Marathon) / 6 hours (Half Marathon)
- Organizer
- Gnar Runners
- Registration
- Open
From the official race website, checked 2026-10-18. Official page
External Event
Distance
13.8 mi
Pace
All paces
Terrain
Trail, singletrack, dirt road, rocky
Difficulty
Challenging
About this run
The Blue Sky Marathon & Half offers a unique trail running experience through the stunning landscapes of Northern Colorado. The courses wind through Horsetooth Mountain Park and Devil's Backbone Open Space, providing a north-south tour of the Front Range mountains' eastern hogbacks. Runners will traverse the distinctive redstone hardpack of the Blue Sky Trail, experiencing a mix of smooth dirt paths and technical rock gardens.
This event is known for its challenging yet rewarding terrain. The marathon covers 26.7 miles with approximately 3,500 feet of elevation gain, while the half marathon is 13.4 miles with about 1,800 feet of gain. The majority of the course is on singletrack trails, with small portions on dirt roads and gravel paths.
Participants can expect a scenic adventure with opportunities to spot local wildlife such as deer, abert squirrels, and golden eagles. Post-race, runners can enjoy hot food, awards, and sponsor giveaways, making it a complete event experience.
Who it's for
This event is well-suited for trail runners of all levels, from seasoned veterans seeking a challenge to those looking to embark on their first trail racing adventure. The varied terrain and generous cut-off times make it accessible, while the significant elevation gain offers a test for experienced participants.
What to expect
- Arrive early to the Blue Sky Trailhead in Horsetooth Mountain Park to allow time for parking and pre-race preparations.
- The course is primarily singletrack, so be prepared for technical sections with rock gardens and potentially narrow paths.
- Pacing will be crucial due to the significant elevation gain and varied terrain; adjust your strategy accordingly.
- Weather in the Colorado mountains can change rapidly; check the forecast and be prepared with appropriate gear, including hydration and nutrition.
- The marathon has a 9-hour cut-off, and the half marathon has a 6-hour cut-off, providing ample time for most participants to complete their chosen distance.
Good to know
- The Half Marathon is sold out for 2026.
- Packet pickup details will be available on the official registration page.
- The event takes place over two days: the Marathon on October 17, 2026, and the Half Marathon on October 18, 2026.
Typical conditions
For events around October 2026 in Fort Collins, CO, United States: Typical autumn conditions in this region — conditions can change quickly; confirm race-day guidance on the official page.
How to prepare
Trail events reward time on uneven surfaces and hills. Practice footing and bring the shoes and hydration the organizer recommends — details vary by race.
Find races near youGetting there
This event is listed in Fort Collins, CO, United States. Confirm the exact start venue, parking, and transit options on the official registration page.
Frequently asked questions
What are the distances offered?+
The event offers a Marathon (26.7 miles) and a Half Marathon (13.4 miles).
When and where is the Blue Sky Marathon & Half?+
The event takes place on October 17-18, 2026, starting at the Blue Sky Trailhead in Horsetooth Mountain Park, Fort Collins, Colorado.
What is the terrain like?+
The course is mostly dirt singletrack (90%), with some rocky sections and a small portion on dirt roads and gravel trails. The terrain ranges from smooth dirt to technical rock gardens.
What is the elevation gain for each race?+
The Marathon has approximately 3,500 feet of elevation gain, and the Half Marathon has approximately 1,800 feet of elevation gain.
What are the cut-off times?+
The Marathon has a 9-hour cut-off, and the Half Marathon has a 6-hour cut-off.
How can I register?+
Registration information can be found on the official Gnar Runners website: https://gnarrunners.com/blue-sky-marathon/
Is the Half Marathon still open for registration?+
No, the Half Marathon is sold out for 2026.
Where can I find more details about the race?+
Runners should refer to the official registration page for the most up-to-date information on packet pickup, parking, and other race details.
Registration is handled by the official event organizer
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