Leadville Trail 100 Run

The Leadville Trail 100 Run, also known as The Race Across The Sky or the LT100, is an ultramarathon that embodies the essence of endurance and perseverance. This iconic event is not for the faint of heart but is tailor-made for athletes who thrive on extreme challenges and breathtaking natural beauty.

The target audience is a niche but dedicated group of ultra-runners, many of whom are repeat attendees drawn by the race’s storied history and formidable terrain. These athletes are often seasoned trail runners, ultramarathon veterans, and adventure seekers who relish the opportunity to push their limits in one of the most demanding races on the planet. While the event itself is centered around the runners, it also attracts families, friends, and supporters who come to cheer on their loved ones and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the race.

The Leadville Trail 100 Run typically takes place in mid-August, with the 2025 edition scheduled for Saturday, August 16. The event begins early in the morning, with runners embarking on their 100-mile journey from the starting line in Leadville. The race spans 30 hours, during which participants must navigate the rugged and unrelenting terrain of the Colorado Rockies. Key milestones include the climb up to Hope Pass, which runners encounter on both the outbound and return legs of the race. Special happenings include the Race Across the Sky Expo in downtown Leadville, where participants can check in, pick up their swag bags, and enjoy free swag, bike demos, live podcasts, and beer tents.

The event takes place in and around Leadville, Colorado, a historic mining town nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. While the race does not occur directly at Turquoise Lake, it does traverse through the surrounding mountains and forests, offering runners stunning vistas and challenging terrain. To get to Leadville, participants can fly into nearby airports such as the Denver International Airport or the Colorado Springs Airport and then drive to Leadville via major highways. The setting is a marvel of natural beauty, with runners passing through dense forests, scaling high-altitude passes like Hope Pass and Sugarloaf, and experiencing the unique charm of Leadville.

The allure of the Leadville Trail 100 Run lies in its punishing yet exhilarating course, which challenges even the most seasoned athletes. The race is an unforgettable experience due to its extreme elevation changes—over 18,000 feet of elevation gain—and its technical terrain along the Colorado Trail. Runners pass through 11 well-supplied aid stations with cut-offs and medical checks, a testament to the meticulous organization and support that underpins this event.

Despite its grueling nature, the Leadville Trail 100 Run offers a sense of community and camaraderie that is hard to find elsewhere. Runners are allowed pacers after the 50-mile point, providing an added layer of support and motivation as they tackle the second half of the race. The event’s atmosphere is electric, with the starting and finishing lines in Leadville buzzing with energy as family, friends, and supporters gather to cheer on the runners.

For those who attend, the Leadville Trail 100 Run promises an experience that is as much about personal achievement as it is about immersing oneself in the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Whether you are a participant, a supporter, or simply a spectator, this event is a must-experience for anyone who loves endurance sports, natural beauty, and the indomitable human spirit.