Durango Marathon Weekend:
Run Colorado's Newest Fall Classic.
Join us on October 11, 2026, for the inaugural Durango Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K—a scenic road race experience through one of Colorado's most beautiful mountain communities.
Starting and finishing at Santa Rita Park along the banks of the Animas River, runners will enjoy crisp autumn temperatures, spectacular fall colors, sweeping views of the San Juan Mountains, and a course designed to showcase the best of Durango. Whether you're chasing a personal best, checking a marathon off your bucket list, or simply looking for an unforgettable race-cation, the Durango Marathon offers a unique combination of challenge, beauty, and community.
As a first-year event, participants have the opportunity to become part of race history and help establish what we hope will become one of the premier fall running events in the Four Corners region. Sign up early and be part of the beginning.
Why Run Durango?
Durango is consistently recognized as one of the top outdoor recreation destinations in the United States. Nestled at the base of the San Juan Mountains, the town offers world-class trail running, mountain biking, hiking, rafting, historic attractions, craft breweries, and exceptional dining.
October is one of the most beautiful times of year to visit. Peak fall foliage paints the surrounding mountains in gold and orange, daytime temperatures are ideal for distance running, and visitors can enjoy everything Durango has to offer before and after race day.
Make a weekend of it. Bring your family. Explore the region. Run an unforgettable race.
For More information, visit our Race Website: https://blackbeareventsandtiming.com/durangomarathon
Events
Durango Marathon
Durango Half Marathon
Durango Marathon Weekend 5k
Course Overview
The marathon and half marathon begin at Santa Rita Park before climbing through the eastern side of Durango, past Fort Lewis College, and continuing north along County Road 250. Runners will enjoy expansive mountain views, colorful cottonwoods, and quiet stretches of roadway before returning to town and finishing on the scenic Animas River Trail.
The course starts at approximately 6,500 feet above sea level and reaches nearly 6,900 feet at its highest point before gradually descending back toward town. While the altitude adds an extra challenge, cool October temperatures and beautiful scenery make for an unforgettable race experience.
Course Highlights:
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All races start and finish at Santa Rita Park
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Views of the Animas Valley and San Juan Mountains
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Fast river trail finish through Durango
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Peak autumn foliage
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Fully paved course
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Professional chip timing
Aid Stations:
Aid stations will be located throughout the marathon and half marathon courses approximately every 3–5 miles. for the 5K, there will be an aid station at the 1.5 mile turn-around point.
Each aid station will provide water, electrolyte drink, and a mix of sweet and salty snacks.
The turnaround aid stations for both the half and full marathons will also include restroom facilities.
Our goal is to provide a well-supported experience for runners of all ability levels.
Finish Line Celebration:
Cross the finish line at Santa Rita Park and celebrate your accomplishment with fellow runners, spectators, volunteers, and community partners.
Race-day festivities will include:
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Finisher medals
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Participant shirts
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Awards ceremony
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Music
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Sponsor and vendor booths
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Food and refreshments
Run for a Great Cause
The Durango Marathon is proud to support local students through a partnership with the Durango Education Foundation.
A portion of race proceeds will help fund scholarships for local high school students pursuing their educational goals after graduation.
When you register, you're not only investing in your own race experience—you are helping create opportunities for the next generation of Durango students.
Together, we can make a lasting impact in our community.
Contact Form
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
Event Location
Start and Finish at Santa Rita Park
111 South Camino Del Rio
Durango, CO 81301 US
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