ultra and
vert challenge
July 19th, 2025
Powderhorn Ski Resort
Mesa, Colorado
Come to the untapped Grand Mesa in Western Colorado to test your self with our 12hr, 6hr, and vertical challenge runs!
The Events
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The 12 hr
Beat the heat of the summer and venture to Powderhorn Ski Resort to push yourself around other runners ready to bring the grit, energy, and mental fortitude it takes for our 12 hour challenge. Trek up the Stagecoach Trail while taking in the beauty of the Grand Mesa and gorgeous views of the Grand Valley. Escape to a runner's mountain paradise, right here in western Colorado.
You will gain over 1500 ft in elevation for each loop completed and we will have unique medals for benchmarks like completing an ultra in 12hrs and the coveted 50 mile mark!
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The 6 HR
Don’t want to commit to the 12 hr but want to see what you can do in e? Sign up for our 6 hr challenge.
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The vert challenge
Not interested in that pesky downhill? Sleep in a bit and come challenge yourself with our vertical challenge. The race will begin when the chairlifts do and it’s over when they stop running (approximately 7 hrs). You run up, the lift takes you down. The goal, 10k vertical feet.
the course
The race begins at the base of Powderhorn mountain and winds its way through aspen, evergreen, and mountain meadows to the top. You will gain about 1500’ of vertical for every lap. Each lap is almost exactly 10k. With an aid station at the top and fully stocked aid, crew, music, and more at the bottom. We want to create an experience where route finding and long stretches between aid stations aren’t an issue and you can find energy from volunteers and other runners for the whole day! We are partnering with Grand Junction Sports Commission who will have their 5k and 15k on the same day! The map is from their first year and we love the route!
More details:
Powderhorn 12-Hour/6-Hour Mountain Ultra and Vertical Challenge: A test of endurance
Date: July 19th, 2025
Location: Powderhorn Mountain Resort. Mesa, CO
Ready to push yourself like never before? The Powderhorn 12-Hour Mountain Ultra is here to challenge your endurance, strength, and willpower with two exciting options. Whether you're a trail-running enthusiast or a vertical-climbing beast, we have the perfect course for you.
Nestled in the stunning Colorado mountains on Grand Mesa, Powderhorn Ski Resort offers unparalleled views and the rugged terrain to test even the most seasoned runners. With two race options, the choice is yours: rack up the distance or dominate the vertical.
Choose Your Challenge:
The Loop Course
Test your stamina on a 10K loop that starts and finishes at the base of the resort. Each loop has 1,546 feet of elevation gain, taking you from an altitude of 8,287 feet to 9,839 feet at the peak. Get ready to crush multiple laps, and see just how far you can go in 12 hours. It’s a true test of endurance and strategy, with each climb more rewarding than the last.The Vertical Challenge
How much vertical can you handle? This option is designed for those who live for the uphill grind. Ascend from the base to the summit as many times as possible—then take the chairlift back down. It’s pure elevation gain, all day long. With 1,546 feet of climbing per ascent, this challenge is perfect for runners who love pushing limits and collecting serious vertical.
What to Expect:
Two Epic Courses: Whether you’re looping or climbing, both courses offer a mix of technical trails, stunning alpine scenery, and the full mountain experience. Note: The uphill is the same for both efforts.
Elevation Challenge: Starting at 8,287 feet and topping out at 9,839 feet, prepare for high-altitude running that will push your lungs and legs to the max.
Solo or Team: Take on the challenge solo, or split the load in our relay category with a friend.
Full Support: Well-stocked aid stations with fuel and hydration will be available to keep you going strong.
Awesome Race Swag: Earn a medal and race hat to celebrate your epic achievement—plus awards for top distance and vertical performers!
Powderhorn: More Than a Race, It’s an Adventure
Located in the scenic Rocky Mountains, Powderhorn Ski Resort offers the perfect summer playground for outdoor enthusiasts. After the race, relax at the base, share stories with fellow racers, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the Grand Mesa.
Register Today and Start Training for the Ultimate Mountain Ultra!
Challenge yourself to new heights—literally and figuratively. Whether you’re chasing distance or vertical, the Powderhorn 12-Hour Mountain Ultra will push you to the edge of your endurance and beyond.
Sign Up Now!
Solo: Get as many miles as you can on the looped course in 12 hours. The race starts at 6am and you have to start your last loop by 4:45 pm.
Vertical Challenge: Run the uphill 5k and take the chairlift down to do it again. The race starts at 9ish(30 minutes before lifts begin) and the last loop has to begin by 4ish. (based on lifts)
Team challenge: For either race you can team up and do the race with a friend. You can run in any format as a relay.
Pricing:
12 hr Endurance Challenge and Vertical Challenge: REgister
Nov 1-Jan 5: $150 Team of 2: $250
Jan 6-May 1: $200. Team of 2: $300
May 2- July 16: $250 Team of 2: $350
Race Day: $275. Team of 2: $400. (if available)
6 hr: Register
Nov 1-Jan 5: $120 Team of 2: $220
Jan 6-May 1: $170. Team of 2: $270
May 2- July 16: $200 Team of 2: $300
Race Day: $225. Team of 2: $325. (if available)
Vert Challenge: register
Nov 1-Jan 5: $150
Jan 6-May 1: $200
May 2- July 16: $250
Race Day: $275 (if available)