Celebrate community, culture, and health at the esteemed Louise Hammond Memorial Beardance Run, honoring the legacy of Ute Mountain Ute tradition and wellness pioneer Louise Hammond. Set for Saturday, June 7, 2025, at the Towaoc Recreation Center, this run brings together racers across three distances—5K, 10K, and half marathon—rooted in over 40 years of heritage dating back to the original Bear Dance Run.
Distances begin early (half marathon at 6:00 AM MDT, 10K and 5K at 7:00 AM), on a stunning out-and-back course starting with a gentle paved mile, then transitioning into scenic, unmaintained dirt roads. Water stations are strategically placed along the routes to support runners in the high-desert climate.
Finisher swag is meaningful: the first 20 registrants in each distance receive a commemorative T-shirt, while all finishers of the half and 10K vie for overall male and female awards with top 3 spots acknowledged.
More than a race, it’s a community celebration—honoring cultural heritage, promoting health, and fostering togetherness. Whether you’re drawn by desert scenery, cultural significance, or chase for a personal best on a quietly challenging surface, the Beardance Run delivers a unique blend of tradition and trail.
