Whether you’re up for a fun 5K or ready to conquer a challenging 100-miler, consider signing up for a race in the Vail Valley. The scenery alone will leave you breathless (in a good way!)
Colorado’s mountain resorts are chockfull of adrenaline-pumping running, biking and whitewater events all summer long. There are races for everyone, from weekend warriors to hardcore ultra-athletes. So, lace up the running shoes, clip into the bike pedals, or start paddling, and make these epic events the highlight of your summer vacation. And if you’d rather take in the awe-inspiring surroundings from a camp chair, grab your cow bell and cheer from the sidelines!
Let's get the summer started in the Vail Valley! What started as a local whitewater event in 2002 has grown over the the past 20+ years into the most celebrated festival of adventure sports, art and music. Each year, thousands of pro and amateur adventure athletes of ALL ages (and dogs!) converge upon the mountains and rivers of Vail to compete in 11 adventure sport disciplines and more than 30 competitions.
New for 2025 is the Vail Ultra, a grueling 50-mile race benefiting 50 For the Fallen; Kayak Cross, a kayak slalom on Gore Creek where contact is allowed; YETI Speed Climbing, where athletes scale a 15-meter wall at lightning speed. The organizers have also put an emphasis on running events, expanding race opportunities for runners of all skill levels.
And the competition has gone to the dogs. In addition to running races, you and your canine companion can compete in events such Dockdogs Extreme Vertical, Outdoor Big Air, Speed Retrieve and K9 Superwall.
A little dirt never hurt! This fan-favorite of the GoPro Mountain Games, the Nature Valley Mountain Mud Run, is for the good, bad, and muddy. Perfect for the entire family and all ages and running abilities, you'll navigate two mud pits and multiple obstacles. Costumes are encouraged!
One of Colorado's most iconic trail running series, The Vail Trail Running Race Series is not to be missed. The series has taken runners up trails, over mountains, through forests and over streams in and around Vail for the past 24 years. The courses are challenging for the elites and enjoyed by the beginner trail runner alike. Run them all or just one. Distances vary from 5K to 13K.
The 2025 series returns for its 41st year to offer fun and exciting racing to mountain bikers of all ages and experience levels. Whether competing in an individual race or signing up for the entire series, racers have the chance to win prizes, free beer and personal glory. There are 8 races throughout the summer, kicking off on May 21 with the kids only Minturn Mini race and ending with the Vail Grind on August 27.
