Each of the race courses start at the main entrance to the park and share a common finish in historic Rock Ledge Ranch where the post-race party begins. Food, beer, music, and vendors, surrounded by the beauty of the Ranch and Garden, give runners and their families and friends a place to stay and enjoy an amazing post-race experience. 

The 10M/10K course will loop runners through the spectacular Garden of the Gods Park which lies between Manitou Springs and Colorado Springs. With a low point of 6,210′ and a high point of 6,530′ in elevation, the runners are physically challenged with almost 1,000 feet of total elevation gain on the 10M course. The races are run primarily on asphalt roads, with a small portion on a concrete walkway or gravel road. 

Clear, dry weather is normal with temperatures normally in the low 60’s at start time. The temperature generally rises into the 70’s or low 80’s by the end of the race. Eight aid stations are located throughout the course, making it easy for runners to hydrate with water or Gatorade as needed.

The Garden roads are closed to traffic during the race, however, the finish line cutoff time is 9:30am to accommodate the park’s reopening at 10:00am. After 9:30am, any runners remaining on the course will be on their own.