Running Colorado: Why the Horsetooth Half, Colorado Marathon, and BOLDERBoulder Should Be on Your Race Calendar

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Colorado is renowned for its vibrant running community and hosts several iconic races that attract participants from around the globe. Among these, the Horsetooth Half Marathon, Colorado Marathon, and BOLDERBoulder 10K. Here’s an overview of these races in 2025, including their distances, dates, times, histories, entry costs, locations, and reasons to participate.

Horsetooth Half Marathon

  • Distance: 13.1 miles (Half Marathon)
  • Date and Time (for 2025): Sunday, April 13, 2025, at 8:00 AM
  • Location: Fort Collins, Colorado​
  • Entry Fee:

The course offers a scenic point-to-point journey starting near the former Hughes Stadium site, traversing the challenging hills of Centennial Drive along the shimmering Horsetooth Reservoir, and concluding with a festive finish at New Belgium Brewery. Whether you’re an elite athlete or a first-time half-marathoner, the Horsetooth Half provides a memorable experience that encapsulates the spirit of Colorado’s running culture.​

Colorado Marathon

  • Distances:
    • Full Marathon​
    • Half Marathon​
    • 10K​
    • 5K​
  • Date (for 2025): Sunday, May 4, 2025​
  • Location: Fort Collins, Colorado​
  • Entry Fees (Sell out for Full and Half!!):

The Colorado Marathon, held annually in Fort Collins, is celebrated for its fast, downhill courses that wind through the Poudre Canyon and the natural areas of Northern Colorado. Since its inception, the marathon has been a favorite for runners aiming to qualify for the Boston Marathon, thanks to its favorable elevation profile. Participants can choose from multiple distances, making it accessible to a wide range of runners.

BOLDERBoulder 10K

  • Distance: 10 kilometers (6.2 miles)​
  • Date (for 2025): Monday, May 26, 2025
  • Location: Boulder, Colorado
  • Entry Fees:
    • Standard Package (Short Sleeve Shirt): $69; $54 for youth 14 & under; $59 for seniors 65 & older, active & reserve military​
    • Long Sleeve Package: $79; $64 for youth 14 & under; $69 for seniors 65 & older, active & reserve military​
    • Tech Tee Performance Package: $84; $69 for youth 14 & under; $74 for seniors 65 & older, active & reserve military​
    • BOLDER Package (All 3 Shirts): $99; $84 for youth 14 & under; $89 for seniors 65 & older, active & reserve military ​

Founded in 1979, the BOLDERBoulder has grown into one of the largest and most respected community running events globally, often attracting over 48,000 participants and 70,000 spectators. The race weaves through the streets of Boulder, with a grand finish at the University of Colorado’s Folsom Field. Beyond the run, the event features live music, a pro-race finish, and the nation’s largest Memorial Day Tribute, making it a festive and patriotic celebration.

Participating in the Horsetooth Half Marathon, Colorado Marathon, or BOLDERBoulder 10K is not just about the race; it’s about embracing the spirit of Colorado!

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