The Vertical Challenge
Beginning at 8am, runners will ascend the Thumb Open Space out and back trail. At the turnaround runners must collect 1 poker chip to bring back to the start and deposit in their assigned jar. At 4pm, poker chips will be counted to determine placing and a special award will be given to the winner.
Unique patches will be awarded at 3 milestones:
14 ascents - Estes Park 7,522'
18 ascents - Deer Mountain 10,103'
26 ascents - Longs Peak 14,259'
This race is limited to 40 participants.
Course
The Thumb Open Space trail is a 1km out and back with 540ft of ascent.
On May 26, 2021, the Town of Estes Park officially purchased 65 acres on the south side of Prospect Mountain for designation as the Thumb Open Space, which officially opens to public access on July 1, 2022. This newest Town-owned recreation area is named for the large, thumb-like rock outcrop on the southeastern side of the property. Users are reminded to please respect private property and refrain from leaving the marked public trail.
Event's current local time: 5:09 PM MT
