
From the Organizer
Get ready for a ROYALly GORGEous experience! Whether you’re tackling the 5K, the 8-mile trail run, or the half marathon trail run, this event offers something truly special. All three races feature the exhilarating opportunity to run across America’s highest suspension bridge, the iconic Royal Gorge Bridge, with breathtaking views of one of Colorado’s most stunning landscapes.
But it’s not just about the race — it’s about the cause. All proceeds benefit Starpoint, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with cognitive and physical disabilities, as well as children and their families. When you run the Royal Gorge Races, you’re running for more than just a personal challenge; you’re making a difference in the lives of others.
Your registration includes free entrance into the historic Royal Gorge Bridge & Park (on race day). Family members will receive a $10 discount. After the race, we want you to slow down, relax, and take in the unique views that our region has to offer.
There is a FREE KIDS’ race.
The 5K is stroller friendly. All races are dog friendly, but only if your dog is friendly.
HALF MARATHON RUNNERS!— Ready for a Challenge?
Check out the SOCO OverIt Half Marathon Series — three unforgettable races, one incredible experience.
We’ve teamed up with the Beulah Challenge and Rock Canyon Half Marathon to bring you a series that’s as meaningful as it is scenic. Each race not only showcases Colorado’s stunning landscapes but also gives back to its local community in powerful ways.
Race Lineup:
• Beulah Challenge — September 19, 2026
• Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Race — October 3, 2026
• Rock Canyon Half Marathon — December 6, 2026
Your can register for this half marathon series here https://runsignup.com/Race/CO/Beulah/BeulahChallenge
****Please note- do not use your GPS to get you to the race. Refer to the directions on the website.
www.rimtorimroyalgorge.com. A detailed email will be sent to all registrants.
****PLEASE NOTE THAT OUR 10K ROUTE IS DISCONTINUED AND WILL BE RESERVED
AS AN ALTERNATE ROUTE IN THE UNLIKELY EVENT THAT THERE IS INCLEMENT
WEATHER AND THE TRAILS ARE UNRUNNABLE. SHOULD THIS BE THE CASE, WE
WILL EXTEND THE ROUTE TO 8 MILES (DIRT ROAD) AND ALL 8-MILE REGISTRANTS
AND HALF-MARATHON TRAIL RUNNERS CAN RUN THIS ROUTE INSTEAD.
Colorado Springs Packet Pickup: Tuesday, September 29, 2026 -
Canon City Early Packet Pickup: Friday, October 2, 2026, from 5 PM to 7 PM Centennial Park - 221 Griffin Ave. Canon City, CO 81212.
Race Day Morning Packet Pickup: Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 7 AM to Race Start
Packet pickup will also be available on race day morning. Simply head to parking lot B upon your arrival, and make your way to the welcome table located on the side of the parking lot. We'll be ready to assist you and ensure you're all set for the event!
Events
Weather
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
74°
Typical Low
41°
Chance of Rain
18%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Canon City, 7 mi from the venue.
Host City
Elevation
6,036 ft
Nearest Airport
COS
City of Colorado Springs Municipal Airport · 42 mi
Time Zone
Mountain Time
From Endurance Grid
Line up lodging and travel early to lock in your race weekend.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Races: 5K Road Run, Trail 8 Mile, Trail Half Marathon, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
117
Days to train
Coming Up
We Ride 4 Three Day Adventures
Less than a mile away
Miles for Hope
Less than a mile away
Wine Run 5k at The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey
Less than a mile away
Beulah Challenge and OverIt Series
33 miles away
From Endurance Grid
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.
The half marathon is the distance where you find out what you're actually made of. Long enough to demand real preparation. Short enough that it doesn't consume your life to train for it. Most people who run their first half describe it as the race that changed their relationship with what they're capable of. Once you cross this finish line, the bar moves. That's not a warning — that's the point.
Race day energy varies by event size, but the finish line feeling is the same regardless. Big races keep the noise going the whole way. Smaller races give you stretches where it's just you and the miles — and that solitude becomes its own kind of fuel.
The half marathon rewards people who show up for the boring training miles.
How long to train: 10–14 weeks. If you're already running consistently, 10 weeks of structured buildup is enough. If you're building from a casual base, give yourself 14.
From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Races: 5K Road Run, Trail 8 Mile, Trail Half Marathon
Oct 3, 2026