Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon
- Pikes Peak
The EAS Pikes Peak Ascent and EAS Pikes
Peak Marathon covers 13 miles and almost
8,000 vertical feet and is known as America’s
Ultimate Challenge. The mind-bending climb
takes participants to the top of the world and into
the clouds as they try to prove they can conquer
Colorado’s biggest beast.
It takes the runners an average of 30 minutes
for each mile after they reach tree line. The challenging
ascent is not for the faint of heart. The
combination of scorching heat, painful blisters
and high altitude poses a danger to those who
are not in top physical condition. The winners
bask in glory and sunshine at the summit of one
of the most majestic monoliths in the state.
Registration is closed for this year’s events. The
52nd annual event is one leg of the Triple Crown
of Running, which includes a marathon at Garden
of the Gods in Colorado Springs.
The race expo will be from noon to 7 p.m. Aug.
17 at Memorial Park in Manitou Springs. The first
wave of the Pikes Peak Ascent begins at 7 a.m.
Aug. 18 and the second wave of runners start at 7:30 a.m. Pikes Peak Marathon participants
will begin their incredible, fast-paced climb
at 7 a.m. Aug. 19.
To reach the starting point, take I-25 and
go west on Cimarron Street from Colorado
Springs. Continue on Cimarron Street for six
miles and take a left on Manitou Avenue.
Look for Memorial Park, which is just east
of the Manitou Springs City Hall.
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