Latest News – June 15

Leadville Trail Marathon, Heavy Half on Saturday 

This Saturday, June 18, the Leadville Trail Marathon and Heavy Half Marathon will take place on the east side, weaving in and out of one of the state’s most historic mining camps.

The Leadville Race Series officially kicks off with the Leadville Marathon and Heavy Half this Saturday at 8 a.m. Crews have been clearing nearly 4 feet of snow off the race course which tops out at over 13,000 at Mosquito Pass. Photo: LRS

But it seems as Colorado’s “liquid gold” (aka snow)  could be the biggest challenger on the famed course. With the substantial spring snowfall, Leadville Race Series (LRS) crew has been prepping the course and working to clear roughly four feet of snow from more than two miles of trail. The course should be clear for participants on race day.

“It’s not uncommon for there still to be snow at higher elevations in June.” said LRS Director Josh Colley. “We’re always ready and prepared to shovel and clear the snow away for our participants and give them the best race experience Leadville is known for.”

From the 2014 Leadville Trail Marathon. The course will be ready, but racers should expect some snow! Photo: Leadville Today

The course runs through the historic mining district of Leadville and climbs up to 13,185 feet at the top of Mosquito Pass. The challenging three-mile climb includes rocky terrain and switchbacks and racers are rewarded with breathtaking views of Turquoise Lake and the Mosquito and Sawatch Ranges, including Mount Elbert, the highest peak in Colorado.

Sounds like there’s still room for more racers so if you’re up for the challenge, online registration closes Thursday, June 16 at 8 a.m. In-person registration will be offered Friday, June 17 from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. and race morning, Saturday June 18 from 6 – 7:15 a.m. The race starts on Saturday, at 8 a.m 

The Leadville Marathon is also the first event in the Leadman/Leadwoman competition where athletes participate in five LRS events throughout the summer culminating in the ultimate challenge, the Leadville Trail 100 Run. 

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