HRCA Backcountry Wilderness Half Marathon

The 18th Annual Backcountry Wilderness Half Marathon returns to Highlands Ranch on the new date of Saturday, October 31, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. This single-loop, 13.1-mile race is 100% dirt, gravel and singletrack through the Douglas County East/West Trail and the Highlands Ranch Backcountry Wilderness Area, with hills and sweeping Front Range views. Cash prizes go to the top three male, female and non-binary finishers: 1st – $600, 2nd – $400, 3rd – $200. Every finisher gets a long-sleeve technical race shirt, custom bib, finisher medal, a pancake breakfast from Flippin' Flapjacks, and a post-race beer from Living the Dream Brewing. Start/finish is at 11033 Monarch Blvd; free parking at Rocky Heights Middle School and Rock Canyon High School (carpooling encouraged, limited spots). Registration is $85 online through Oct 26, 2026 (price increases after); race-day online-only registration stays open until the 9:00 a.m. start. Dogs and strollers are not allowed on the course.