SUMMARY. America's top Boston qualifier for % of finishers that qualify for Boston.  Named by Runners World as America's Most Scenic Marathon in 2008.  Voted Best Marathon in the Rocky Mountain Region by Competitor Magazine in 2013.  Also, the event has other distances: half marathon, 10K, and 5K.

The Colorado Marathon offers an extraordinary running experience through the breathtaking Poudre Canyon and Fort Collins. This race, known for its scenic beauty and exceptional organization, begins at an elevation of around 6,000 feet and descends along the Poudre River, providing runners with stunning views of green peaks, a steady river, and ample shade.

The marathon course is predominantly downhill, making it ideal for setting personal records, though the altitude can be challenging for those not accustomed to it. The route features minimal inclines, with the most significant uphill section at mile 19. This combination of downhill running and spectacular scenery makes the first 17 miles particularly enjoyable. The race then flattens out as it approaches the town, where spectators and volunteers provide much-needed encouragement.

The finish line in Fort Collins is lively, with enthusiastic crowds and a variety of food trucks and local craft beers. The post-race atmosphere is festive, with live music and plenty of seating for runners to relax and celebrate their achievements.

The race swag includes a bright neon Brooks tech shirt and a medal featuring the Colorado state flag and a bottle opener, adding a unique touch to the mementos. Overall, the Colorado Marathon is a fantastic race that combines natural beauty with excellent organization, making it a must-run event for marathon enthusiasts. <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Colorado Marathon offers an extraordinary running experience through the breathtaking Poudre Canyon and Fort Collins. This race, known for its scenic beauty and exceptional organization, begins at an elevation of around 6,000 feet and descends along the Poudre River, providing runners with stunning views of green peaks, a steady river, and ample shade.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The marathon course is predominantly downhill, making it ideal for setting personal records, though the altitude can be challenging for those not accustomed to it. The route features minimal inclines, with the most significant uphill section at mile 19. This combination of downhill running and spectacular scenery makes the first 17 miles particularly enjoyable. The race then flattens out as it approaches the town, where spectators and volunteers provide much-needed encouragement.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The finish line in Fort Collins is lively, with enthusiastic crowds and a variety of food trucks and local craft beers. The post-race atmosphere is festive, with live music and plenty of seating for runners to relax and celebrate their achievements.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The race swag includes a bright neon Brooks tech shirt and a medal featuring the Colorado state flag and a bottle opener, adding a unique touch to the mementos. Overall, the Colorado Marathon is a fantastic race that combines natural beauty with excellent organization, making it a must-run event for marathon enthusiasts.</span></p> <div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_3 new-section et_section_regular">
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<h2>REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR THE 2025 COLORADO MARATHON!</h2>
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<p>Welcome to the Colorado Marathon, one of the most stunning races in the country! This annual marathon is held in the verdant Poudre Canyon, nestled in the picturesque Rocky Mountains, just outside of the beautiful city of Fort Collins.</p>
<p>We&rsquo;re thrilled to announce that registration for our upcoming 2025 event is now open for all four races, including the&nbsp;<a href="https://comarathon.com/full-marathon">full marathon</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://comarathon.com/half-marathon">half-marathon</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://comarathon.com/10k-marathon">10k</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://comarathon.com/5k-marathon">5k</a>. This event, designated as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rrca.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">RRCA Colorado State Marathon Championship</a>&nbsp;in 2023 and 2024, promises an unforgettable experience for runners of all ages, levels, and abilities. Register with confidence! Racers can change to a shorter distance to match their current fitness and ability. Join us on Sunday, May 4, 2025, for a day of exhilarating running, breathtaking scenery, and the opportunity to push yourself to new heights. But be quick! The 2023 and 2024 races sold out! We appreciate your support, and can&rsquo;t wait to see you at the starting line in 2025!</p>
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<div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_1">The Colorado Marathon has qualified roughly 16-18% of all Boston qualifiers entrants each year.</div>
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<div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_2 full-height-image-column"><span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img class="wp-image-3651" title="Riverbend-min" src="https://comarathon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Riverbend-min.webp" sizes="(max-width: 478px) 100vw, 478px" srcset="https://comarathon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Riverbend-min.webp 478w, https://comarathon.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Riverbend-min-260x300.webp 260w" alt="" width="351" height="405" loading="lazy" /></span></div>
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<h2>EXPERIENCE RUNNING A SCENIC MARATHON LIKE NO OTHER</h2>
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<p>The Poudre Canyon in the Rocky Mountains is a breathtaking landscape that sets the stage for the Colorado Marathon&rsquo;s full, half, 10k, and 5k courses. Runners are treated to stunning views of the canyon walls and verdant tree-lined slopes rising around them as they wind their way along the banks of the shimmering Cache La Poudre River. The mountain setting makes this race a favorite for the &ldquo;50 State&rdquo; runners and others looking for an alternative to another urban marathon.</p>
<p>The crisp mountain air carries the scent of pine and the sound of wildlife, adding to the natural beauty of this incredible setting. Whether you&rsquo;re an experienced runner or a first-time participant, the natural beauty of the Poudre Canyon will energize and invigorate you every step of the way. So come join us and let the Rocky Mountains inspire you to greatness!</p>
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Highly recommend this beautiful, well-run race!!

Beautiful course, well organized, friendly race!

Colorado Marathon (prev. Fort Collins Old Town Marathon) - Race Reviews