Aspen Backcountry

The Aspen Backcountry returns to Aspen, Colorado on August 1st, offering a challenging set of distances for runners eager to explore the backcountry trails around this scenic mountain town.
Aspen Backcountry is known for its rigorous course that spans across varied terrain within Pitkin County. Participants can expect to encounter firm and slightly soft trail conditions as they navigate through the rugged landscape. The event starts near Duck Pond, a familiar landmark in Aspen, where runners will begin their journey along N Mill St and Rio Grande Place.
The race has been an annual tradition since its inception by the Rotary Club of Aspen with the Duck Derby fundraising event. Over the years, it has grown to include not only the marathon but also two additional distances: a 50 Kilometer route for endurance enthusiasts and a Heavy Half Marathon at 21.1K for those looking for something more manageable yet still challenging. The race supports local Colorado communities by raising funds through entry fees that contribute directly to the Duck Derby cause, fostering camaraderie among participants while promoting community service.
The course winds through scenic trails with elevation changes that test both physical and mental endurance of runners. Aid stations will be strategically placed throughout each distance to provide water, hydration packs, energy gels, and electrolyte drinks for racers. The race day typically sees average temperatures around 17°C, ranging from a low of 8.4°C in the early morning hours up to a high of 25.7°C by mid-afternoon.

The Aspen Backcountry includes three challenging distances: a Marathon (42.2K) for those seeking a full marathon experience; a Heavy Half Marathon at 21.1K designed for runners looking for an intermediate challenge; and the most demanding distance, a 50 Kilometer route that attracts ultra-runners from across the country.
Participants must register online via https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=130516 to secure their spot in one of these exciting races. Entry fees are set at $90 for the Heavy Half Marathon, $145 for the marathon distance, and $155 for the 50 Kilometer event. Registration deadlines vary by race; runners should check the website closely as space fills up quickly.
Prior to race day, participants must obtain a valid CORSAR card either online or at packet pickup in order to receive their bib number. Bib pickup will be held on-site near Duck Pond from July 28th through August 1st during specific hours each day leading up to the event start time. Be sure to bring your identification and any applicable hunting or fishing licenses, as these can act equivalently to a CORSAR card.
The Aspen Backcountry Marathon begins at N Mill St and Rio Grande Place in downtown Aspen for all participants starting their journey on race morning with clear instructions provided beforehand about age requirements which generally follow standard running event guidelines. Participants should ensure they are prepared for trail conditions ranging from firm paths to slightly soft terrain, wearing appropriate footwear and clothing suitable for an early August climate that averages around 17°C.
Aspen Backcountry returns to Aspen, Colorado on August 1st as a cornerstone endurance race within the community, fostering local pride through both athletic challenge and charitable contributions supporting events such as Duck Derby.