Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Races Half Marathon, 8 Mile, & 5k

Saturday, October 7, 2023 • Canon City, CO

Celebrating its 13th year, the Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Half Marathon Trail Run, 8-Mile Trail Run, and 5k is part of the SOCO Over It Race Series.

Trail Runners, Scenic Views. Using amazing trails with spectacular views that surround the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, this event offers all participants a unique and exhilarating experience.

Encompassing a run over America’s highest suspension bridge, the famous Royal Gorge Bridge, it’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to check off your bucket list; it’s touted as one of the most beautiful half marathons in Colorado for a reason.

Moderately challenging with rolling hills throughout, this half marathon trail course will begin in parking lot B, making their way out of the paved lot and onto the first dirt road about one mile in.

It’s then quickly onto the Overlook Trail as runners make their way toward Canyon Rim Trail. Onward, runners will be introduced to several trails including Canyon Vista, Dream Weaver, and Twisted Cistern, all-encompassing varying levels of scenery and difficulty.

Crossing the bridge for the final quarter mile, runners will ultimately reach the finish line back at the parking lot where it all started.

Capped at 200 runners, this smaller-sized event is a great race for all walks of life and fitness levels. Upon registration, all participants will receive a commemorative long-sleeve event shirt, 50% off on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad race weekend, free park admission, and of course, access to the event itself.

For those lucky enough to finish, you’ll also receive a commemorative finisher’s medal custom for this year’s race.

Race Weather & Climate

Canon City is situated in south-central Colorado, about 40 miles southwest of Pueblo, making it a charming town near the Arkansas River.

Canon City, Colorado signifies the beauty of early autumn. High temperatures usually reach around 70°F, creating a pleasantly cool and comfortable atmosphere for outdoor activities like hiking or enjoying the fall foliage. As the day transitions into evening, temperatures drop to approximately 43°F, reminding you that autumn nights can be brisk. Precipitation levels are typically low, with an average of just 0.6 inches of rainfall, making it a great time to appreciate the changing colors of the season in Canon City.

On race day (October 7), the average low is 45ºF and the average high is 65ºF.

Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Race Results

Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Races Half Marathon, 8 Mile, & 5k Past Race Results

Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Races Course Map

See the race route map for the Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Races Half Marathon, 8 Mile, & 5k course map here.

Starting Time

The half marathon start time is 7:30 AM.

Registration

To reserve your spot in the 2023 Rim to Rim Royal Gorge Races, you can use the registration link here.