The Colorado Marathon

The Colorado Marathon is held in Fort Collins, Colorado, on May 2, 2027. The marathon (26.2 miles) and half marathon (13.1 miles) start at 6:30 a.m., the 10K and 5K at 7:00. The marathon runs mostly downhill through the scenic Cache la Poudre canyon with plenty of shade, starting in the Poudre Canyon and finishing in historic Old Town Fort Collins, where a loud crowd lines the last stretch. It is often called the most scenic course in the country.

A predominantly downhill marathon is fast, but only for legs that have rehearsed it, so add downhill running to your build or the quads will fade in the closing miles. That profile makes it a strong choice for a personal-best attempt, and a celebration beer and the finish-area festivities wait at the end.