Garden of the Gods 10-Mile, 10K, and Trail races–Celebrating 50 Years of a Colorado Classic

As race director, I have the privilege of welcoming runners to one of the most unique race venues anywhere. This year marks a special milestone: the 50th running of the Garden 10-Mile, a race that has become one of Colorado’s most beloved running traditions. While it has grown into a larger event with the two added races, it has kept the charm of a community race. On race morning you’ll still see runners chatting at the start, wishing each other luck, and sharing the excitement of taking on the beautiful course together.

Running through the Garden

Before I helped organize this event, I stood on the starting line just like many of you-wondering how tough the course would be but also looking forward to a beautiful run.  Race day offers a rare opportunity to experience the Garden of the Gods Park without traffic.  The roads through the park are closed, and runners move through the landscape with little more than birds, footsteps, and encouragement from fellow participants filling the air.

The scenery is unforgettable. Towering red sandstone formations line the course, and along your run you’ll catch views of Pikes Peak in the distance. It’s easy to see why the park welcomes millions of visitors each year.

Don’t Let the Views Fool You

While the scenery is spectacular, the course has a reputation for being challenging, as the first leg of the Garden to Peak Challenge. A common comment at the finish line is: “I wasn’t expecting it to be that difficult.” Usually followed by: “…those hills.”

The course takes you up and down some hills and sits between 6,200 and 6,500 feet above sea level, with roughly 1,000 feet of total elevation gain. Runners visiting from lower elevations will notice a faster heart rate and maybe a slightly slower pace. The best approach is simply to pace yourself, stay hydrated, and enjoy the run.

Race-Day Tips

Since this isn’t a typical road race, a few practical tips can help you have a great day:

Start conservatively.

The view at the start line will get you going, but ease into your rhythm during that slight uphill in the beginning.

Plan your hydration. This is a cupless race, so bring your water vessel. We’ll have water near the start line and aid stations will have water and electrolytes along the course.

Expect warm June weather.

Temperatures often start in the 50s but can warm quickly once the sun comes up.

Take in the scenery.

You’re racing, but you’re also running through one of the most remarkable parks in Colorado, so take it all in.

The Finish Line at Rock Ledge Ranch

After crossing the finish line, runners gather in the Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site for the post-race expo. The atmosphere is relaxed and fun, with vendors, food, drinks, and merchandise. You can also cheer on the next generation at the free kids’ races around the ranch. The morning wraps up with the awards ceremony—a great way to celebrate your run and the community that has supported this race for 50 years.

There’s something special about this event, whether you’re tackling the 10-Mile, 10K, or Trail Run for the first time or tenth time. The views, the challenge, and the community are what have made this race special for everyone—and I hope to see you in the Garden.