DreamCatcher Half Marathon: The Stunning Beauty of Running Western Colorado

Sponsored Post by DreamCatcher Half Marathon

dclogo-125A small race that takes place in March under the big sky of western Colorado. Stunning views, mostly flat and fast terrain, and a unique staggered start for runners of every ability level. Here, runners in the earliest starting time — the “Rockers,” who begin at 7:00 AM — head out onto the trails along the Colorado River, and into Las Colinas Park:

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Later — two and a half hours later, at 9:30 AM — the speedy runners who expect to finish in less than two hours take off from the starting line at the “Jack Rabbit” start:

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All around the race course, you’ll see scenery like this: Mount Garfield, one of the natural landmarks of Colorado’s Grand Valley. If you feel up for it after the race, there’s a two-mile hike to the top, with a 2,000-ft. elevation gain. The elevation at the top — 6,000 feet — provides a view that’s definitely worth the effort:

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And like this:

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While you’re in Grand Junction for the race, visit the amazing Colorado National Monument, filled with trails, canyons and rock formations like these:

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You’ll also get to see the Grand Mesa, one of the largest table-top mountains in America. It lies just a 45-minute drive from Grand Junction and has everything for the outdoor enthusiast. And there just may still be snow on it when the race is held!

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It’s always more fun to revel in the thrill of the finish line with a friend!

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All photos by Jeff Stoddart Photography

Learn more about the Dreamcatcher Half Marathon here, see a course map here, or sign up for the race here.

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