Put your grit, guts and determination to the test with a 50-mile course that packs more punch (per mile) than even the mighty Race Across the Sky. From technical climbs to heart-pounding descents, the Silver Rush 50 Run takes runners across Leadville’s breathtaking panoramas and under the shadow of 14,000-foot …
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Put your grit, guts and determination to the test with a 50-mile course that packs more punch (per mile) than even the mighty Race Across the Sky. From technical climbs to heart-pounding descents, the Silver Rush 50 Run takes runners across Leadville’s breathtaking panoramas and under the shadow of 14,000-foot Rocky Mountain peaks. With 8,000 feet of elevation gain over 50 miles, Silver Rush offers the perfect trial run — and qualifying event — for the LT100 Run.
The ~50-mile out-and-back course takes racers through the historic mining district on the east side of Leadville. Primarily on dirt roads, first set by miners and their burros, it will begin at the Cloud City Ski Hut (located just below Colorado Mountain College on Hwy 24 on the South end of Leadville). None of the roads used will be closed to vehicle traffic, so please use caution and follow the rules of the road. The route will take runners by and between many grand and historic gold and silver mines.
Total course cut off is 14 hours. Racers that do not make the cut off at the aid stations will NOT be able to continue the race.
- 48.4 miles
- 7,503′ Elevation Gain
- 12,024′ Highest point
The Silver Rush 15 Run will start and finish on the same course as the Silver Rush 50 Run. This race provides an excellent step into ultra running and will, of course, be accompanied by tremendous Leadville views along the way.
Experience the thrill of the Silver Rush Juniors 5K. Designed exclusively for runners ages 10–18, this exciting event allows young athletes to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of Leadville’s high-altitude trail running.
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A true test of your limits!
First, I had an amazing experience. What a legendary town with some of the best athletes around! But this was without a doubt the hardest race I've ever endured. Being … MORE
First, I had an amazing experience. What a legendary town with some of the best athletes around! But this was without a doubt the hardest race I’ve ever endured. Being a 10x Marathoner, I wanted a new and unique challenge to test me physically and mentally and without a doubt Leadville tested me beyond my limits.
If you live at our near sea level, this race will be a struggle. I come from 2,500 feet and the lack of 02 has a mental affect; it seemed to suck the fight out of me.
It came with two 12,000 foot summit climbs, the last did me in. Some climbs and descents were so rocky and technical, as a road runner, I just couldn’t get any momentum downhill – this takes practice and experience that I didn’t have. Be ready to deal with blisters as I struggled with mine the last 10 miles; I came unprepared for that.
However, with plenty of time before the cut off, I realized I had no chance of winning (LOL) so decided to walk back the last 8 miles with a group of about 10 of us.
What I rave about this race are the volunteers. They were so enthusiastic and they seriously helped me through some dark low spots. Gave me everything I needed to carry on!
And talk about incredible scenery! It is breathtaking! And LTR race series does a phenomenal job. I would say the production was well done and the town really did roll out the red carpet for its athletes.
Leadville is a legendary town that attracts some of the gnarliest and toughest dudes and gals on the planet. I’m proud of myself that I was able to join them and finish 50 miles on this course. If you want to be truly tested, (steep and rocky elevation climbs, lack of O2, ultra distance) this absolutely is the race for you! I want to try again but know now I need to train more at altitude in the mountains with climbs.
Tough, but beautiful!
This race was my second time completing the 50 mile distance. It was significantly harder than the first 50 I did with about 7500' of elevation gain all above 10,000 … MORE
This race was my second time completing the 50 mile distance. It was significantly harder than the first 50 I did with about 7500′ of elevation gain all above 10,000 feet in elevation and topping out at 12,000 feet on 4 separate occasions. It’s an out-and-back on old mining roads which can be pretty rocky in spots, but it’s marked really well so you never have to worry about getting lost. The Leadville Race Series puts on great events that are definitely “big” compared to most ultra races I’ve done with professional photography and a lot of spectators at the aid stations and finish areas. The scenery was great – especially during miles 18-20 and 28-30. Overall I really liked this race, but definitely be prepared for a lot of climbing (and therefore a lot of walking) and a VERY long day!