Sheep Mountain Trail Runs
Sheep Mountain Trail Runs offer a challenging half marathon amid Colorado's high-altitude beauty.
Race Date
Aug 1, 2026
Location
Fairplay, CO
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, August 1, 2026
- Location
- Fairplay, Colorado
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 33 Miles, 53.1 Miles
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Mixed
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Sheep Mountain Trail Runs, set in Fairplay, Colorado, present a half marathon that serves as a welcoming introduction to trail running. While the longer ultra distances tackle the "beautifully difficult" mountains and hills of the South Park Valley at over 10,600 feet, the half marathon offers a more mellow experience. Runners can expect a course featuring flowing dirt county roads and USFS fire roads, with some rocky sections adding a touch of technicality.
This event, now in its 11th year, draws participants from around 10 states, with a median field size of around 60 finishers. The growing popularity suggests a dedicated following, though the repeat-runner loyalty is currently around 8%. Participants receive a Sheep Mountain T-shirt, and the race celebrates the rugged, historical nature of this high-altitude mountain region.
Race-provided description
The Human Potential Running Series Presents: The Sheep Mountain Trail Runs @ Fairplay, CO Come ready my friends, this mountain throws everything it has at trail and ultra runners alike, challenging you from start to finish at an average elevation over 10,600′. You’ll run amongst these “beautifully difficult” mountains and hills lining the western slope of the South Park Valley. This is the race where you carry #Adversity on your back, if you can handle the burden, you can win the day! Runners looking for a wilderness experience, stunning views, opportunities for technical terrain mixed with remote forest service roads… will fall in love with this course. The Sheep Mountain 50 mile and 50k promises to provide runners with an unforgettable experience that celebrates the history, and rough and tumble nature of this mountain region. The Sheep Mountain Half Marathon is a wonderful introduction into trail running for those looking for a more mellow day. The course features flowing dirt county roads and USFS Fire Road (some of a little rocky).
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, August 1, 2026
Start Time
8:00 AM
Giveaway
Sheep Mountain T-Shirt
Start Location
Platte Drive, Fairplay, CO, 80440
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
mixed
Scenery
Mountain, Rural
Surface
Dirt Trail, Paved
Difficulty
Rolling Hills
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Course Map
Quality Score
Standout6111 years running
~60 finishers a year
growing or steady
8% returning runners
3 timing sources · 4 photos
runners from 10 states
no winner time yet
typical high 69°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
43°
Afternoon (High)
69°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.1"
Precipitation
11 mph
Wind
58%
Humidity
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Sheep Mountain Trail Runs?
The Sheep Mountain Trail Runs is held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, starting at 8:00 AM.
Where does the Sheep Mountain Trail Runs take place?
It takes place in Fairplay, Colorado.
What distances does the Sheep Mountain Trail Runs offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 33 Miles, 53.1 Miles.
Is the Sheep Mountain Trail Runs course flat and good for a PR?
The Sheep Mountain Trail Runs is a rolling hills, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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