Imogene Pass Run

The Imogene Pass Run is an extremely difficult race for well-prepared athletes. Strict cutoff times will be enforced.

Imogene Pass is exceptionally beautiful, even by Colorado standards. Because of its mountainous setting and the time of its running, however, the course is difficult and hostile weather is a very real possibility on race day. The terrain is extremely difficult with steep loose up and downhill sections with sharp rocks and uneven surfaces. Participants may encounter subfreezing temperatures, winds, rain, snow and fog; the possibility of injury and/or hypothermia must be emphasized. While mountain rescue teams, EMTs and other assistance may be provided, PARTICIPANTS BEAR THE ULTIMATE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THEIR OWN PERSONAL WELL BEING AND RISK.

The Imogene Pass Run (IPR) is a 17.1 mile point-to-point mountain race within the western San Juan mountains of Colorado, run along a route which connects the towns of Ouray (7810 ft.) and Telluride (8750 ft.) by way of 13,114 foot Imogene Pass. The IPR is held on the first Saturday after the Labor Day holiday, at the seasonal transition from late Summer to early Fall. Mountain weather at this time is famously “squirrelly” (rapidly changeable), and participants through the years have encountered a variety of weather conditions ranging from virtually perfect to terrible. This spectrum of weather during the race is in fact part of its lure and mystique. In good weather years the challenge of the mountainous traverse is rewarded by unsurpassed vistas and no small feeling of accomplishment upon crossing the finish line. In bad weather years, the wind, fog, rain and/or snow along the course make the successful arrival in Telluride a virtual rite of passage into the realm of true mountain running.

Each participant should keep in mind that the IPR is a mountain run in every sense of the word, and that “The Mountains Don’t Care”. The reality is that despite whatever emotions we may have for the mountains and their environment, they are in fact unfeeling objects and they follow the natural rules of physics which are not always benevolent toward living creatures, great or small. It is up to the participants themselves to be properly prepared for the challenges of this alpine foot journey, fair weather or foul. Despite the enthusiastic volunteer support at intervals along the course, each participant is ultimately responsible for his or her own safety and risk.

Except for short pavement stretches at the start and finish and a short trail section immediately below the pass, the IPR is run along a course consisting of normal to 4×4 dirt road. This is a traditional summer travel way between Ouray and Telluride and there may be minor vehicle traffic during the race. A total of six aid stations will be manned during the race (including one at the summit), support personnel will be stationed at critical junctions along the course, and numbered orange traffic cones will be placed at every mile interval from the start to the finish.

TRAIN yourself to negotiate very steep, rocky and possibly icy, snow-covered ascents and descents. PREPARE yourself to contend with hostile weather conditions – in threatening weather the IPR will STRONGLY SUGGEST that participants have a jacket, gloves and hat to proceed over the summit. Improperly prepared participants may be turned back at the Upper Camp Bird Checkpoint.

All participants should have a jacket, gloves and hat at with them during the run. Polypropylene base layers with other types of wicking/waterproof materials are STRONGLY Recommended. Rain and foul weather are common during the race even if there is sunshine at the start. Improperly prepared participants may be turned back at the Upper Camp Bird Checkpoint, regardless of cutoff time limitations.