Hiking to the summit of Pikes Peak is definitely a challenge. Making it to the top of a 14,115-foot mountain…
Pikes Peak Marathon & Ascent
The Pikes Peak Marathon and Pikes Peak Ascent are arguably the world's most elevating marathon and half marathon races.
First held in 1956, the Pikes Peak Marathon is the third longest-running marathon in the United States and the oldest continually held marathon in the nation. The race is also widely regarded as the most challenging marathon in the United States.
Runners have the unique opportunity to race 13 miles up the Barr Trail to reach the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain, only to circle back for a complete and arduous 26.2 mile journey. The Pikes Peak Ascent, hosted the day before marathon, is an atypical, challenging half marathon that sees participants run along 1.5 miles of road before beginning the vertical climb — with 7,800 feet of elevation gain — along the Barr Trail to the summit.
For those simply wanting to congratulate the race finishers, you can drive up part of Pikes Peak Highway and free shuttles will take you to the summit. Find sponsor and vendor displays and stock on race essentials the days before the race at the Pikes Peak Marathon Expo. For qualification and entry information, click here.
Event Dates, Times & Locations
2024 Race Weekend Schedule
Stock up on running gear from vendors, pick up your race bib, and hang out with other running enthusiasts, complete with a beer garden, live music and other entertainment.
Expo Dates & Times:
- Thursday, September 19 — 4:30-7:30 p.m.
- Friday, September 20 — 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
- Saturday, September 21 — 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
- Sunday, September 22 — Expo closed; Post-Marathon activities occur in Soda Springs Park
Location: Memorial Park in Manitou Springs
2024 Pikes Peak Ascent
Experience 7,800 feet of elevation gain in 13.1 miles as you summit Pikes Peak.
Date: Saturday, September 21, 2024
Time: Race begins at 7:00 a.m.; Pre-race staging, bib pick-up and sweat check begin at 5:30 a.m.
Location: Pre-race staging occurs in Memorial Park; Race begins in front of Manitou Springs' City Hall; Race ends at Pikes Peak Summit
2024 Pikes Peak Marathon
Race to the summit of Pikes Peak and then descend America's Mountain during this 26.2-mile journey. Registration is open!
Date: Sunday, September 22, 2024
Time: Race begins at 7:00 a.m.; Pre-race staging, bib pick-up and sweat check begin at 5:30 a.m.
Location: Pre-race staging occurs in Memorial Park; Race begins in front of Manitou Springs' City Hall; Race ends at Soda Springs Park
Pikes Peak Marathon Registration
Are you up for the challenge?
Space is limited and runners must meet qualification requirements.
Fees:
March 1 - April 30 - $200
May 1 - May 31 - $225
June 1 - September 1 - $250
Pikes Peak Ascent Registration
Not your typical half marathon
Space is limited and runners must meet qualification requirements.
Fees:
March 1 - May 31 - $175
June 1 - September 1 - $200
Pikes Peak — America’s Mountain
Explore the breathtaking Pikes Peak with our guide on enjoying everything that this geological feat has to offer.
Drive the 19-mile paved toll road to the summit of Pikes Peak - America's Mountain.
The ultimate cycling challenge to 14,115 feet.
From jeep tours to sleek Slingshots, there are a variety of options to reach the top of Pikes Peak.