Grand Junction is an expansive outdoor playground and a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. The stunning natural environment creates the perfect setting for outdoor sports, while the community-focused culture provides ample opportunities to connect with fellow endorphin chasers. If you’re interested in a little healthy competition, Grand Junction offers a variety of unique races ranging from mountain biking to holiday 5ks.
Ready to lace up and hit the starting line? Discover our favorite Colorado races in Grand Junction below.
Colorado Races in Grand Junction
Howl-O-Ween Fun Run
Date: October 20, 2023
Enjoy a spooktacular day of fun with your furry friend at the Howl-O-Ween 5k & 2k Fun Run and Walk. This dog-friendly event encourages participants to dress up with their pups in their favorite Halloween costumes. Run or walk the 5k route through scenic Las Colonias Park to the Roice-Hurst campus and back, or opt for the shorter 2k route around Las Colonias Park.
Learn more about how to register for this festive fall event here.
2023 Rim Rock Marathon and Half Marathon
Date: November 5, 2023
One of the most picturesque racing courses in Colorado is the Rim Rock Marathon and Half Marathon which follows the famous Rim Rock Drive through this National Park Service site. Runners take in beautiful views of what many call a mini Grand Canyon.
Race registration can be found here.
Santa Cause Run
Date: December 9, 2023
This festive event is held in December and sees swarms of Santa suit-sporting athletes run or walk either a 1k or 5k for children’s charity, Kiwanis. The run has taken place for over seven years and has raised more than $16,000 to support local youth. The first completed project from race funds was a new wheelchair-accessible swing in Canyon View Park.
The Santa Cause Run begins at the Amphitheater at Las Colonias Park. Registration costs between $20-30 depending on the race distance, and the first 300 applicants receive a Santa suit or race shirt free of charge.
To sign-up or learn more about the Santa Cause run, head here.
Elevate Kids Fun Run
Date: April 14, 2024
The Grand Junction Elevate Kids Fun Run is a family-friendly event offering a range of distances, including 2.5k, 5k, and 10k courses. Located at the beautiful Las Colonias Park, this event provides a fun and active way for kids and families to enjoy the outdoors while promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.
Click here to learn more about the event or sign up for the race.
Grand Enduro
Date: May 2024
Grand Enduro is not for the faint of heart. This bike race has three stages in and around the Lunch Loops trail system in Grand Junction, which is known for its intense terrain. The race attracts expert cyclists from across the nation, who compete over two days, covering close to 23 miles, totaling up to four hours of riding time. Each stage requires careful maneuvering and solid fitness.
Pre-riding experience is necessary for Grand Enduro, and all participants must bring a well-equipped mountain bike to compete in the race. Registration fees start at $139 and increase in price the closer you get to race day. Every entry includes a Grand Enduro racing hat, a swag bag, and a food and drink voucher.
For more details about the race and how to register, click here.
Grand Junction Rides and Vibes
Date: May 10 and 11, 2024
Previously called Grand Junction Off-Road, Grand Junction Rides and Vibes is a two-day celebration that takes place in the heart of the city. Whether you’re a serious athlete or a recreational rider, this biking event is well worth it. Along with bike races, there are also kid-friendly activities, live music, and food and drink vendors.
Grand Junction Rides and Vibes is a great spectator sport and is free to attend! Registration for the races will be released soon. To discover more, visit here.
Desert’s Edge Triathalon Series
Date: September 2024
This race starts and finishes at the scenic Highline Lake State Park. This massive lake is a popular recreation area for water-skiing, swimming, fishing, picnicking and camping. The triathlon includes collegiate draft-legal sprint, olympic distance, sprint distance, off-road sprint, and a relay team. Post-race food and beverages will be provided post-race along with entertainment in the park.
Whether you’re a trail runner, casual jogger, or a mountain biker, Grand Junction offers a variety of races for endurance enthusiasts. After your race, kick back and stay a while since Grand Junction has some of the most affordable lodging in the state with outdoor activities that can be enjoyed year-round thanks to the temperate climate.
For more events in Grand Junction, check out the Grand Junction Event Calendar or get inspired for your next trip with the Official Grand Junction Visitor Guide.