Rim-top loops above the Royal Gorge with 900-foot canyon views
Other trail races within 39 miles
A demanding loop through the dramatic rim country above the Arkansas River canyon. Runners trace singletrack trails along the Royal Gorge rim with sweeping views 900 feet above the river, passing through high desert terrain with rolling ridgelines and exposed canyon vistas. The course completes two distinct loops from the Ranch & Resort, sharing the first 18 miles with the 30K before adding a second loop to the southwest.
Some ultra experience recommended
Cañon City, CO, United StatesApril 25, 2026
Royal Gorge Groove 50K is a loop trail race in Cañon City, CO, United States, held on April 25, 2026. The course covers 31.3 miles, climbs 3,530 ft, and has an 11h cutoff.
| Location | Mile | Elevation | Cutoff | Crew | Drop bags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Start Start | 0.0 | 6,289 ft | — | Crew | |
Dream Weaver Water Drop Aid Station | 2.5 | 6,526 ft | — | ||
Tower Aid Station Aid Station | 6.7 | 7,110 ft | — | ||
Canyon Rim Aid Station Aid Station | 11.1 | 6,726 ft | — | ||
START/FINISH (mid-loop) Aid Station | 18.3 | 6,289 ft | — | Crew | |
Dream Weaver Water Drop Aid Station | 20.9 | 6,526 ft | — | ||
Canyon Rim Aid Station Aid Station | 24.2 | 6,726 ft | — | ||
Finish Finish | 31.4 | 6,289 ft | 11h6:00 PM | Crew | Drop Bags |
Aid station details for this race are still being filled in. Cutoffs and access rules come from the race’s own published information and can change — check the official race details before planning around them.
Sign in for race-day weather at every station, points of interest, segment-by-segment analysis, pacing, and to save this race to your calendar.
East Ridge Campground reserved for race weekend, 5-minute drive from start/finish with canyon views. Sites $35/night, includes limited spots for small RVs/trailers. On-site lodging at Royal Gorge Vacation Rentals (yurts $199/night, airstreams $249–299/night) adjacent to the start/finish area on the Arkansas River. Book via (719) 275-7238 or use code RG-GROOVE-AR10 for 10% discount April 24–29.
April weather in Colorado can shift rapidly. Snow is rare but possible; temperatures are generally cool. Race organizers may turn runners around if conditions become unsafe.
No required gear specified
No recommended gear specified
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