Aspen Backcountry Heavy Half Marathon

The Aspen Backcountry Heavy Half Marathon earns its name—15 miles of alpine singletrack with over 3,100 feet of elevation gain above Aspen, Colorado. Starting at Rio Grande Park at 7,900 feet and peaking above 10,090 feet, the course delivers the full backcountry mountain experience in a half-marathon package. Nearly all singletrack, the route combines sustained climbs and technical descents on the trails surrounding Aspen. Remote aid stations provide support at key points. The 8-hour cutoff is generous, but altitude and terrain make this a genuine challenge for runners new to high-alpine racing. Finishes at the Duck Derby festival.