The Blue Sky Ascent & Round Trip is America’s Highest Road Race. Although the air will be noticeably thin at the starting line, Echo Lake’s 10,600 feet of elevation is just the beginning. The climb totals nearly 4,000 vertical feet – much of it above treeline – as you make your way 14.5 miles to the finish line located at the summit of one of the most recognizable peaks on Denver’s mountain skyline – 14,264 foot Mt. Blue Sky (formerly Mt. Evans).
Be inspired!!! Spectators will include Bighorn Sheep, Marmots, and Mountain Goats – maybe even a few people!!!
Runners will start at the Echo Lake Campground, located at the intersection of Hwy. 103 (Squaw Pass Rd.) and Hwy. 5. From there, the course climbs for 14.5 miles up North America’s highest paved road. The course takes you through montane, subalpine, and alpine environments to the summit of Mt. Blue Sky at 14,264 ft.
A 2.5 hour cut-off will be in effect at Summit Lake, which is approximately 9 miles into the run. Summit Lake lies at an elevation of 12,850 feet, and is 2,250 feet higher than the starting line at Echo Lake. There will be a shuttle van at Summit Lake where you can take shelter. Summit crew will be notified of your withdrawal, and your summit bag will be brought down to the shuttle. The finish line will officially close after 4.5 hours. If you have missed a cut-off, please do not ask aid station volunteers to continue.
Four fully stocked aid stations will provide drinks and nourishment throughout the race. They are located approximately every 3 miles. If you need fluids or calories more frequently, please feel free to carry a bottle and fill it at our aid stations. Our aid stations are stocked with water, HEED energy drink by Hammer Nutrition, Coca Cola, Hammer Gel, Candy, Cookies, Fruit, pretzels, and electrolyte tablets.
Each finisher receives a custom finishers medal, with a special “Trophy Rock” awarded to men who finish under 2:40 and women under 3 hours. A terrific post-race picnic with awards & raffles greet you as you filter down off the mountain. Overall, masters, and course record $ bonuses will be offered.
There are two options: The Ascent is a one-way 14.5 mile climb from Echo Lake the summit of Mt. Evans. the Round Trip is just as it sounds — you will run to the top, then run back down.
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