HalfRuns
Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Races: 5K Road Run, Trail 8 Mile, Trail Half Marathon

Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Races: 5K Road Run, Trail 8 Mile, Trail Half Marathon

Run across the iconic Royal Gorge Bridge in Colorado's stunning landscapes.

Race Date

Oct 3, 2026

Location

Canon City, CO

Quick facts

Date
Saturday, October 3, 2026
Location
Canon City, Colorado
Distance
Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 5K, 8 Miles, 10K, 13.1 Miles
Course
Loop Course
Terrain
Mixed
USATF certified
Not listed

Highlights

Good For

Beginner FriendlyDestination WorthyGood Value

Atmosphere

Party FinishSpectator SupportGreat SwagWell Organized

Course

Scenic Route

The Experience

The Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Races offer a unique opportunity to traverse America's highest suspension bridge, the Royal Gorge Bridge, with breathtaking views of Colorado's dramatic scenery. This event, held annually in early October, features multiple distances including a 5K road run and an 8-mile and half marathon trail run.

The 5K winds through scenic foothills, incorporating challenging hills and a thrilling downhill finish, with the highlight being the crossing of the majestic bridge. The trail races delve into the stunning landscapes adjacent to the gorge, promising an invigorating adventure. All proceeds from the races benefit Starpoint, a nonprofit supporting individuals with disabilities and their families, adding a charitable dimension to the athletic challenge.

Runners receive free entry into the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park on race day, and the event is dog-friendly and stroller-friendly for the 5K. A free kids' race is also available, making it a family-friendly affair. The series is part of the SOCO OverIt Half Marathon Series, which partners with other local races to showcase Colorado's beauty while giving back to the community.

Race-provided description

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. PACKET PICKUP FOR THE RIM TO RIM ROYAL GORGE RACE 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!

Logistics

Race Day

Saturday, October 3, 2026

Start Time

7:30 AM

Giveaway

T-Shirt (Long Sleeve)

Start Location

4218 Co Rd 3A, Canon City, CO, 81212

Directions

Course Info

Course Type

Loop Course

Terrain

mixed

Scenery

Mountain, Park

Surface

Dirt Trail, Paved

Difficulty

Hilly

Net Drop/km

0 m (Flat)

Separation

0.0%

Also Offers

5K8 Miles10K13.1 Miles

Quality Score

Methodology
Heritage0/20

first year

Size0/15

no finisher counts yet

Momentum3/5

small race — neutral

Loyalty0/20

needs a few years of results

Course & details6/15

3 timing sources · 10 photos

National draw0/10

no finisher data yet

Front-pack speed0/5

no winner time yet

Weather0/10

typical high 76°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (Low)

50°

Afternoon (High)

76°

Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively

0.0"

Precipitation

11 mph

Wind

44%

Humidity

Race Photos

Frequently asked

When is the Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Races: 5K Road Run, Trail 8 Mile, Trail Half Marathon?

The Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Races: 5K Road Run, Trail 8 Mile, Trail Half Marathon is held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, starting at 7:30 AM.

Where does the Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Races: 5K Road Run, Trail 8 Mile, Trail Half Marathon take place?

It takes place in Canon City, Colorado.

What distances does the Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Races: 5K Road Run, Trail 8 Mile, Trail Half Marathon offer?

The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 5K, 8 Miles, 10K, 13.1 Miles.

Is the Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Races: 5K Road Run, Trail 8 Mile, Trail Half Marathon course flat and good for a PR?

The Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Races: 5K Road Run, Trail 8 Mile, Trail Half Marathon is a hilly, loop course course.

HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.

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