441 Manitou Ave, Suite 100
Manitou Springs, CO 80829 |
Fun Fact!
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2026 Official Runner Guide
From the Race Directors
Dear Runners,
We’re excited to welcome you to Manitou Springs for the 71st running of the Pikes Peak Marathon and the 68th running of the Pikes Peak Ascent. For 70 years, runners, volunteers, families, locals, legends, and firsttimers have shaped this event into what it is today. The Pikes Peak Marathon is the longest continuously running marathon in the United States, and together, the Ascent and Marathon continue to carry the spirit of America’s Ultimate Challenge.
When you stand at the start line in Manitou Springs at about 6,412 feet, you’re not just starting a race—you’re stepping into history and running on a mountain that has inspired generations. Zebulon Pike’s 1806 expedition helped put the peak on the map. In 1893, Katharine Lee Bates stood atop Pikes Peak and was inspired to write the poem that became “America the Beautiful.” And in 1959, Arlene Pieper-Stein made history as the first woman to complete a marathon in the United States.
Some of you are returning veterans who know every turn, rock, and “why did I sign up for this?” moment. Others are here for the first time, wondering what kind of beautiful madness you’ve gotten yourself into. Either way, remember this: You belong here.
Race week is one of our favorite times of the year because this community comes alive. We’ll kick things off with the Race Expo at Memorial Park on Thursday, September 17, from 4:30–7pm, and Friday, September 18, from 10am–7pm
Come pick up your bib, meet our vendors, join the shakeout run, enjoy live music, reconnect with running friends, make new ones, and hear from our athlete panel. The Expo is more than packet pickup—it’s the beginning of an incredible weekend together.
Then, on race days—September 19–20—we’ll be at the start and finish lines ready to celebrate every runner who takes on the mountain. First-timer, veteran, Ascent, Marathon—when you cross that line, we’re cheering for you.
One important reminder: the mountain always has the final say. Pikes Peak weather can change quickly, especially as you climb higher. Our gear requirements are in place because safety comes first. Please bring your hooded, windproof, water-resistant jacket and a 12-ounce or larger refillable, sealable water bottle or hydration system. Bring the gear, respect the mountain, and take care of yourself and each other.
We hope you enjoy every part of the weekend—the nerves, the climb, the views, the cowbells, the suffering, the celebration, and the stories you’ll tell long after race day. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for last-minute updates and additional information.
See you on the mountain,
Michael Phan, Race Director
Kathy Hubel, Executive Director
We’re excited to welcome you to Manitou Springs for the 71st running of the Pikes Peak Marathon and the 68th running of the Pikes Peak Ascent. For 70 years, runners, volunteers, families, locals, legends, and firsttimers have shaped this event into what it is today. The Pikes Peak Marathon is the longest continuously running marathon in the United States, and together, the Ascent and Marathon continue to carry the spirit of America’s Ultimate Challenge.
When you stand at the start line in Manitou Springs at about 6,412 feet, you’re not just starting a race—you’re stepping into history and running on a mountain that has inspired generations. Zebulon Pike’s 1806 expedition helped put the peak on the map. In 1893, Katharine Lee Bates stood atop Pikes Peak and was inspired to write the poem that became “America the Beautiful.” And in 1959, Arlene Pieper-Stein made history as the first woman to complete a marathon in the United States.
Some of you are returning veterans who know every turn, rock, and “why did I sign up for this?” moment. Others are here for the first time, wondering what kind of beautiful madness you’ve gotten yourself into. Either way, remember this: You belong here.
Race week is one of our favorite times of the year because this community comes alive. We’ll kick things off with the Race Expo at Memorial Park on Thursday, September 17, from 4:30–7pm, and Friday, September 18, from 10am–7pm
Come pick up your bib, meet our vendors, join the shakeout run, enjoy live music, reconnect with running friends, make new ones, and hear from our athlete panel. The Expo is more than packet pickup—it’s the beginning of an incredible weekend together.
Then, on race days—September 19–20—we’ll be at the start and finish lines ready to celebrate every runner who takes on the mountain. First-timer, veteran, Ascent, Marathon—when you cross that line, we’re cheering for you.
One important reminder: the mountain always has the final say. Pikes Peak weather can change quickly, especially as you climb higher. Our gear requirements are in place because safety comes first. Please bring your hooded, windproof, water-resistant jacket and a 12-ounce or larger refillable, sealable water bottle or hydration system. Bring the gear, respect the mountain, and take care of yourself and each other.
We hope you enjoy every part of the weekend—the nerves, the climb, the views, the cowbells, the suffering, the celebration, and the stories you’ll tell long after race day. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for last-minute updates and additional information.
See you on the mountain,
Michael Phan, Race Director
Kathy Hubel, Executive Director
©
Pikes Peak Marathon