
Pikes Peak Ascent
The Pikes Peak Ascent is a brutal climb from Manitou Springs to the summit of Pikes Peak.
Race Date
Sep 19, 2026
Location
Manitou Springs, CO
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, September 19, 2026
- Location
- Manitou Springs, Colorado
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 13.32 Miles
- Course
- Point to Point
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 57,206
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Pikes Peak Ascent is not your average half marathon; it's a formidable challenge that begins in Manitou Springs, Colorado, and ascends to the iconic summit of Pikes Peak. This race, with a history stretching back to 1979, has become a legendary test of endurance.
Runners face a relentless climb of 7,867 feet over 13.32 miles, a true test of grit and determination. The course winds its way up the mountain, offering a unique and demanding race experience. The typical race-day weather, averaging 48–73°F, can add another layer of challenge to this already demanding event.
With a median field size of around 1,510 finishers and a notable repeat-runner loyalty of about 36%, the Ascent has cultivated a dedicated following. Participants receive a shirt as part of their race swag, a memento of their accomplishment in conquering this iconic Colorado climb.
Race-provided description
13.32 miles and 7,867ft of elevation gain. From Manitou Springs to the summit of Pikes Peak.
This is not your average half marathon, it is a challenge unlike any other!
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, September 19, 2026
Start Time
7:00 AM
Giveaway
Shirt Size
Start Location
502 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs, CO, 80829
Course Info
Course Type
Point to Point
Terrain
road
Scenery
Mountain
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Mountainous
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Quality Score
Standout7046 years running
~1,510 finishers a year
growing or steady
36% returning runners
5 timing sources · 7 photos
runners from 1 state
winner 2:13:31
typical high 73°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
48°
Afternoon (High)
73°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.1"
Precipitation
9 mph
Wind
54%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 57,206 finishers actually crossed the line across 46 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
57,206
Median time
4:45:46
Latest turnout
1,510
States
51
Turnout by year
2017–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Pikes Peak Ascent?
The Pikes Peak Ascent is held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, starting at 7:00 AM.
Where does the Pikes Peak Ascent take place?
It takes place in Manitou Springs, Colorado.
What distances does the Pikes Peak Ascent offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 13.32 Miles.
Is the Pikes Peak Ascent course flat and good for a PR?
The Pikes Peak Ascent is a mountainous, point to point course.
How many people run the Pikes Peak Ascent?
HalfRuns has finish records for 57,206 runners who have completed the Pikes Peak Ascent.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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