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The Sunlight Showdown

The Sunlight Showdown

Sunlight Showdown: a mountain trail half marathon with 3,000ft of climb in Colorado.

Race Date

Jun 27, 2026

Location

Glenwood Springs, CO

Quick facts

Date
Saturday, June 27, 2026
Location
Glenwood Springs, Colorado
Distance
Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 5K, 10K
Course
Loop Course
Terrain
Trail
USATF certified
Not listed

Highlights

Good For

Destination WorthyHidden Gem

Atmosphere

Local CommunityLow Key

Course

Scenic Route

The Experience

The Sunlight Showdown Half Marathon winds through the alpine terrain of Babbish Gulch and Sunlight Mountain near Glenwood Springs, Colorado. With a punishing 3,000ft of elevation gain over dirt trails, this is a race for those who crave mountain challenges. The course alternates between forested singletrack and exposed ridgelines, offering sweeping views of the Rockies at every turn. Despite its modest field of around 53 runners, the event draws a loyal following—about 6% return year after year—creating an intimate, community-driven atmosphere.

Now in its eighth edition, the race has expanded into a full series with a 5K and 10K, allowing runners to progress through the season. The energy is low-key and supportive, with first-timers and seasoned trail runners lining up together. Podium prizes from Arc'teryx Aspen and a post-race drawing add to the celebratory finish.

The half marathon is a true hidden gem for trail runners seeking a challenging, scenic course without the crowds. The mountain setting, combined with the small-town hospitality of Glenwood Springs, makes it a worthy destination for anyone chasing the Colorado trail running experience.

Race-provided description

Welcome to the Sunlight Mountain Race Series brought to you by Arc'teryx Aspen, where mountain air, winding trails, and a vibrant community come together for an unforgettable summer of running. For seven years, our half marathon has challenged and inspired runners on the stunning trails of Sunlight Mountain. Now, we’re taking it to the next level. Introducing a full race series: a 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon designed to help you build, progress, and push your limits all season long. Starting with the 5K, stepping up to the 10K, and culminating in our signature Half Marathon, this series is built for growth, whether you’re new to trail running or chasing your next big goal. Each race winds through the breathtaking terrain of Babbish Gulch and Sunlight Mountain, offering a mix of beauty, challenge, and pure mountain magic. This is more than a race, it’s a community. A place where first timers and seasoned runners line up together, support each other, and celebrate every mile. Come for the trails. Stay for the progression. Be part of the Sunlight Mountain Race Series. Check back for course descriptions and maps in the coming weeks! 5k approx. elevation gain: 600ft 10k approx. elevation gain: 1100ft Half Marathon approx. elevation gain: 3000ft Podium prizes provided by Arc'teryx Aspen Age Categories: 18 and under 19-45 45+ As the race series grows will will add more age catergories! We will hold a racer drawing at the conclusion of each race so all participants have a chance to win something sweet!

Logistics

Race Day

Saturday, June 27, 2026

Start Time

8:00 AM

Giveaway

Something Awesome!

Start Location

10901 County Road 117, Glenwood Springs, CO, 81601

Directions

Course Info

Course Type

Loop Course

Terrain

trail

Scenery

Mountain, Forest

Surface

Dirt Trail

Difficulty

Mountainous

Net Drop/km

0 m (Flat)

Separation

0.0%

Also Offers

5K10K

Quality Score

Methodology
Heritage4/20

2 years running

Size9/15

~53 finishers a year

Momentum0/5

shrinking

Loyalty6/20

6% returning runners

Course & details3/15

4 timing sources

National draw0/10

runners from 1 state

Front-pack speed5/5

winner 1:11:12

Weather0/10

typical high 82°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (Low)

55°

Afternoon (High)

82°

Hot conditions — adjust pace expectations, prioritize hydration

0.1"

Precipitation

9 mph

Wind

48%

Humidity

Frequently asked

When is the The Sunlight Showdown?

The The Sunlight Showdown is held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, starting at 8:00 AM.

Where does the The Sunlight Showdown take place?

It takes place in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.

What distances does the The Sunlight Showdown offer?

The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 5K, 10K.

Is the The Sunlight Showdown course flat and good for a PR?

The The Sunlight Showdown is a mountainous, loop course course.

HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.

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