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Pikes Peak Marathon

Pikes Peak Marathon took place on Sun, Sep 20, 2026 in Manitou Springs, United States. The main route is 42.2 km.

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Date
Sun, Sep 20, 2026
Start
Manitou Springs 🇺🇸
Distance
42.2 km
Climbing
2,388 m
Level
Open to all

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The Pikes Peak Marathon takes runners from Manitou Springs, Colorado, to the summit of Pikes Peak at 14,115 feet and back down for a total of 26.2 grueling mountain miles.

What this race demands

The Pikes Peak Marathon requires sustaining high-altitude output over a severe 42.2 km mountain profile with nearly 2,400 meters of vertical gain.

Altitude adaptation

Ascending to the summit of Pikes Peak at 14,115 feet severely limits aerobic capacity and demands strong physiological tolerance to thin air.

Vertical climbing capacity

Accumulating 2,388 meters of elevation gain over a marathon distance requires sustained muscular strength and efficient uphill pacing.

Technical descending

Returning from the summit back down to Manitou Springs places immense eccentric loading on the quadriceps and requires high-speed mountain running skill.

Given a duration well exceeding 2.5 hours at high altitude, athletes should consume 60 to 90 grams of carbohydrates per hour to maintain energy output.

Estimated finish times

Competitive (Sub-3:00 marathon ability)3:45–4:30h
Advanced (3:00–3:30 marathon ability)4:30–5:30h
Intermediate (3:30–4:15 marathon ability)5:30–6:45h
First-timer / Finisher6:45–8:30h

Estimates by level, not promises. Your own number depends on your fitness on the day.

Frequently asked questions

When is Pikes Peak Marathon?

Pikes Peak Marathon took place on Sun, Sep 20, 2026 in Manitou Springs, United States.

How long is Pikes Peak Marathon?

The main route is 42.2 km.

What does Pikes Peak Marathon demand?

The Pikes Peak Marathon requires sustaining high-altitude output over a severe 42.2 km mountain profile with nearly 2,400 meters of vertical gain.

How much climbing does Pikes Peak Marathon have?

Pikes Peak Marathon has 2,388 m of climbing.

Who is Pikes Peak Marathon for?

Pikes Peak Marathon is open to all participants.

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