COLORADO TRAIL RACE FAQ

The Colorado Trail Race FAQ is your comprehensive guide to understanding this demanding and technical bikepacking race. Covering roughly 500 miles from Denver to Durango, the Colorado Trail Race (CTR) pushes riders through high-altitude passes, relentless climbs, and some of the most challenging singletrack of any ultra-endurance race. With limited resupply options, unpredictable mountain weather, and strict self-supported rules, preparation is key to success.

A good portain of the information in this FAQ comes from the Project’s Colorado Trail Race Rider Survey, where past participants share real-world insights on gear, resupply, and race strategy. It’s an invaluable resource for learning from those who have tackled the course firsthand. Haven’t taken the survey yet? Share your experience now and help future riders prepare for the challenges ahead.

For more in-depth resources, check out our Colorado Trail Race Resource Page. It’s your go-to hub for everything CTR, including resupply insights, planning guides, transportation logistics, and more. The Colorado Trail Race FAQ will help you navigate the complexities of this brutal event—start preparing now and set yourself up for success!

Popular Resources:

Bikepacking Resources

Planning Aids

Bikepacking Gear

Rider Survey's

TRAVEL TO AND FROM

Colorado Trail Race FAQ

Travel logistics for the Colorado Trail Race can be tricky, especially since the start location alternates each year between Denver and Durango. This section of the Colorado Trail Race FAQ covers common questions about getting to the start and leaving from the finish, including flights, shuttles, and bike shipping options. With the CTR being a self-supported, point-to-point race, having a solid transportation plan is essential.

Ensure your travel plans are seamless and stress-free. Find detailed information on travel to and from the Colorado Trail at the following:

Colorado Trail Race Transportation Guide
Bikepacking in the US and Canada – Non-US riders
Shipping or Flying With Your Bike

Q: What airports are best to fly in and out of?

A: Denver International Airport (DIA) and Durango International Airport (DGO) are to two best airports to fly into. Denver has many more options but flying in and out of, the trick is getting back to there from the finish.

More Travel Help

Colorado Trail Race Transportation Guide
Bikepacking in the US & Canada – Travel guide for non-US riders

Q: What options are there for getting from DIA to Waterton Canyon?

A: One can ride, take a taxi, train, bus or use a ride share app.

Q: What options are there for getting from DGO to Durango?

A: One can ride, take a taxi, hire a private shuttle service or use a ride share app.

Q: What’s the best way to get from Denver to Durango?

A: Logistically the best way is probably to know someone or rent a car. You can also take either multiple buses or a combination of bus/train.

Q: If I want to ship my bike, what are my options?

A: You can contact a local shop in Denver or Durango that can receive your bike (and build it up if you want). This is better than shipping it to a hotel or shop near the airport since you eliminate having to travel to the start with your bike. Thus giving you more travel options by not having the bike.

Q: Do most people ship or fly with their bike?

A: Most people choose to drive with their bikes to the start.

See our Shipping or Flying With Your Bike post for more on the subject.

Q: Where can I get a box to ship/fly my bike after I finish?

A: Both Denver and Durango have plenty of bike shops where one can get a box.

Bike Flights will also ship you an empty box that you can ship you bike with them.

Q: I’m flying from outside North America, what do I need to have for paperwork (Passport / Vivas)?

A: There are various items you would need, including and not limited to: Passport, VWP and ESTA for the US or B-1 or B-2.

International Travel Help

Bikepacking in the US & Canada – Travel guide for non-US riders

Q: Do I need a returned flight booked as a non US citizen?

A: Passengers traveling to the US under the VWP must have a valid ticket for a confirmed return or onward flight from the US within 90 days of arrival.

Q: What address do I use for the forms mentioned above?

A: Most individuals just use one of the hotels they will be staying at during their stay.

LOGISTICS

Colorado Trail Race FAQ

Dialing in your logistics for the Colorado Trail Race is crucial for success, as the route presents unique challenges that demand careful planning. Unlike other ultra-endurance races, the CTR is mostly singletrack, with rugged terrain, high-altitude exposure, and unpredictable weather making efficient logistics even more critical. From managing food and water to strategizing resupply stops and pacing for brutal climbs, this section of the Colorado Trail Race FAQ answers key questions to help you prepare.

For even more in-depth planning, check out our Colorado Trail Race Planning Guide and get the insights you need to tackle this demanding route with confidence!

Q: How / When can I register?

A: About one month before the start of the race a post will be made on the official race website, and in the Facebook group, which you can use to register.

More Logistics Help

Colorado Trail Race Planning Guide

Q: When is the event?

A: The CTR starts on the second Saturday of August at 4 am. (Even years the race goes SOBO, Odd years it goes NOBO).

Q: Where can I find the GPX file?

A: You can find the GPX file at jwookieone.com.

Q: How does Spot Tracking work?

A: The same post on the official website and the Facebook that you register with, has a section to allow one to register their own SPOT or rent one. Rental SPOT trackers are picked up at the start from Jefe, the race director.

See our post, SPOT Tracker – Trackleaders Set Up for more.

Q: Where can I find the rules?

A: The rules can be found here: jwookieone.com

Q: When is the best time to start the route outside of the event?

A: Snow levels and snow fall are the biggest factors in answering this. Most years it’s mid-July to early September.

Q: Where do I find the Unofficial Starters List?

A: There is no list, but once Trackleaders goes live one can see who is racing there.

Q: Where can I stay in Denver or Durango?

A: Both locations have multiple options for housing. Hotels, Air BnB, hostels are all options in both locations.

Q: What is the average cost?

A: The average answer is $1-$4999 USD.

ROUTE

Colorado Trail Race FAQ

Understanding the route is essential for preparing for the Colorado Trail Race, as it differs significantly from other bikepacking races. The CTR follows the Colorado Trail, a rugged and remote 525-mile route between Denver and Durango, alternating direction each year. With high-altitude singletrack, relentless climbs, technical descents, and limited resupply, riders must be prepared for some of the toughest terrain in ultra-endurance racing. This section of the Colorado Trail Race FAQ answers key questions about navigation, terrain, and what to expect along the way.

For additional support, the Project’s Colorado Trail Race Planning Aids provide detailed mileage, elevation gain/loss, resupply locations, and more to help you prepare for the challenges ahead.

Q: How long is the Colorado Trail Race?

A: The 10k GPX file in 2023 was 525.2 mi (845 km). While Track Leaders showed 526.9 mi (848 km).

More Route Help

Colorado Trail Race Planning Aids

Q: What is the terrain like?

A: The route is 80% unpaved, and 55% is single track. The route’s elevation averages over 10,300′ (3139m). A very rough estimate has been made that of the 525 mi (845km) about 70 mi (113 km) are HAB (Hike-a-Bike). The tread can vary from smooth single track to extremely rocky.

Q: What is the total elevation gain?

A: The total elevation gain is 73,437 feet (22,384m) based off the 10k GPX file.

Q: Which section has the most elevation gain?

A: Using the CTF’s segments, Segment 22 has the most elevation gain. In general the southern half of the route has the most elevation gain.

Q: What is the highest point on the route?

A: The highest point is Coney Summit in Segment 22 at 13,271 feet (4045 m).

Q: Are there any elevation profiles?

A: John Schillingsworth has elevation profiles, you can find them here.

Q: Where can I find a snow level report?

A: The NOAA Snowtel Report is the best option. The Colorado Trail Foundation has a great page on snow levels too.

Q: Where can I find a fire report?

A: The WATCH DUTY (wild fire app) is a great resource.

Q: What temperature range will I encounter on the route?

A: July to September has an average temperature is generally around mid-to-high 70°F (21°C) Fahrenheit during the day, with lows in the 40’s°F( 4.4 °C) at night.

July: Average high around 88°F, average low around 56°F (13.3 °C).
August: Average high around 86°F, average low around 54°F (12.2 °C).
September: Average high around 78°F, average low around 44°F (6.7 °C).

Q: Where do I find the best maps for the route?

A: Colorado Trail Foundation Data Book and Guide book are one set of source. The route can also be found on the Far Out app too.

Q: Where can I find cue sheets for the route?

A: Cue Sheets are not available from the CTR. An alternative would be the CTF Guide Book.

RESUPPLY

Colorado Trail Race FAQ

Resupply planning is one of the most critical aspects of preparing for the Colorado Trail Race, as options are few and far between. Unlike other races with frequent towns and services, the CTR requires careful food and water management, with long stretches between reliable resupply points. This section of the Colorado Trail Race FAQ answers key questions about where and how to restock along the route.

The Project’s Colorado Trail Race Planning Aids are an invaluable resource, providing detailed information on resupply locations, water sources, and other essential services. Start planning today with the Project’s Planning Aids to ensure you’re fully prepared for the challenges ahead.

Q: What are the resupply options like?

A: Resupply options vary in size and the distances between them. They vary from gas stations, to small general stores to grocery stores.

The biggest concern for racers is the stretch from Silverton to Princeton Hot Springs. It’s 183 miles (295 km) and there are only two small outfitters (with limited options) which are very close to each other. All other options are too far off the race route.

Checkout The Project’s CTR Resupply Guide for resupply and planning strategies.

More Resupply Help

Colorado Trail Race Resupply Guide

Q: Can one ship themselves a package?

A: The rules do allow riders to pre-ship themselves a package to post offices ONLY. Using “general delivery”.

Colorado Trail Race Planning Aids

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Click “Buy Now” button below to visit 1/7 Store with larger examples and more details.

Our Colorado Trail Race Planning Aids include four distinct styles to help you plan your ride:

The Data Sheet: Offers the most detailed information, including distance, elevation +/-, resupply options, notes and more for key POI.
Town List: provides cumulative distances between POI, and does the math so you don’t have to.
Mileage Chart and Elevation Gain Chart: are simple graphs showing cumulative mileage and elevation gain between POI.
Colorado Trail Maps: Explore our companion Ride with GPS maps to visualize the route, identify POIs, and download files for offline navigation.

Data Sheet – $25.00

Town List, Mileage Chart and Elevation Gain Chart only available as part of Big Bundle

Small Bundle – $40.00 *You save $10 when you bundle!

Big Bundle – $60.00 + tax *You save $20 when you bundle!

Buy Now »

BIKE / GEAR

Colorado Trail Race FAQ

Choosing the right bike and gear for the Colorado Trail Race is a critical decision, as the route’s rugged singletrack, high-altitude conditions, and extended hike-a-bike sections place unique demands on equipment. This section of the Colorado Trail Race FAQ answers a few of the most common questions to help you get started.

For more detailed insights and a wider range of gear options, check out the Project’s Colorado Trail Race Rider Survey, where past participants share their setups, gear choices, and firsthand experiences. Have your own CTR experience to share? Take the survey and help future riders make informed decisions!

Q: What type of bike is best?

A: The most popular type of bike per the CTR Rider Survey is a Hard Tail MTB at %49. The reality is it’s 50/50. Hard Tail and Full Suspension.

More Gear Help

Q: How much suspension?

A: Most have 100-120 mm of front travel and 52% had no rear. (the next most popular amount for rear suspension was 101-120mm).

Q: Most popular wheel and tire size ?

A: The most popular wheel size is 29, and the most popular tire size is 2.2- 2.4.

Q: Most popular drivetrain set up?

A: The most popular drivetrain set up is 1x up front (30th), and 12 speed in rear (10-50).

Q: Most popular pedal type?

A: The most popular pedal type is Clipless.

If you want to see more detailed information on what others used, I suggest you look at The Project’s Colorado Trail Race Rider Survey.

CAMPING

Colorado Trail Race FAQ

Camping is a key part of the Colorado Trail Race experience, as riders spend multiple nights in the backcountry with no outside support. This section of the Colorado Trail Race FAQ answers some of the most common questions, including shelter choices, water-carrying capacities, bear safety, and food storage.

For even more insights and a deeper look at how riders approach camping, check out the Project’s Colorado Trail Race Rider Survey for firsthand responses from past participants.

Q: What is the most popular shelter of choice?

A: A bivy sac is the most popular shelter of choice, with a tent being the second.

More Camping Help

Colorado Trail Race Rider Survey

Q: How much water carrying capacity do most have?

A: 2-4 liters is the most common answer. Those touring or going a slower pace might consider 4-6 liters.

Q: Do riders carry bear spray?

A: Over 90% said they didn’t carry any.

Q: Do most camp or use hotels?

A: Where one sleeps at night depends on many factors. Weather, pace, timing, budget, and more. That said, over 75% of races say they camped most nights.

If you want to see more detailed information on what others used, I suggest you look at The Project’s Colorado Trail Race Rider Survey.

CLOTHING

Colorado Trail Race FAQ

Choosing the right clothing for the Colorado Trail Race can be overwhelming, as riders face unpredictable mountain weather, extreme temperature swings, and prolonged exposure at high altitudes. Rather than attempt to cover every option, this section of the Colorado Trail Race FAQ directs you to the Project’s Colorado Trail Race Rider Survey for insights from past participants on clothing choices and layering strategies.

For additional tips, check out our resources on How to Stay Dry When Bikepacking and How to Stay Warm When Bikepacking to ensure you’re prepared for the varied conditions you’ll encounter on the route.

More Clothing Help

Colorado Trail Race Rider Survey

ELECTRONICS

Colorado Trail Race FAQ

Electronics play a crucial role in the Colorado Trail Race, from navigation to lighting and charging solutions. With the CTR’s rugged singletrack, remote terrain, and limited access to power, having a reliable setup is essential. This section of the Colorado Trail Race FAQ answers some of the most common questions, such as the best GPS options, how to keep your devices charged, and the most popular lighting systems.

For even more insights, explore the Project’s Colorado Trail Race Rider Survey or dive into our guide on Bikepacking Navigation to ensure you’re fully equipped for the journey.

Q: What is the best GPS?

A: The most common option is the Garmin eTrex series.

More Electronics Help

Q: How does one keep their electronics charged?

A: The most common way is external batteries. On the CTR, Dynmo hubs are not practical for charging external batteries (the average moving speed of most riders isn’t fast enough to efficiently charge devices or external batteries). That said many use dynmo hubs as their power source for their lights or to keep cycling computers charged.

Q: What is the most popular lighting system?

A: Klite is the most popular bike lighting system, with Fenix, Black Diamond, Exposure, and Sinewave rounding out the top 5.

For a full breakdown of what riders used, check out the Colorado Trail Race Rider Survey and see the data for yourself.

SAFETY

Colorado Trail Race FAQ

Safety is a key concern for anyone tackling the Colorado Trail Race, and this section of the Colorado Trail Race FAQ addresses some of the most common questions. With high-altitude exposure, unpredictable mountain weather, and long stretches of remote terrain, riders must be prepared for a variety of risks. From lightning storms and hypothermia to dehydration and wildlife encounters, understanding potential dangers and how to handle them is essential.

Ultimately, riders are responsible for their own safety, and good decision-making is critical throughout the journey. This includes being prepared with basic first aid knowledge, understanding your body’s limits, recognizing signs of injury or fatigue, and making sound choices in challenging situations. For more insights, explore our Most Common Bikepacking Injuries resource to better prepare yourself for the unexpected.

Q: Do I need travel insurance?

A: Travel insurance is a great idea. If you get the right plan it will not only cover you but your gear and travel.

See our Travel Insurance post for more on the subject.

More CTR Help

Colorado Trail Race Planning Guide

Q: Do I need to carry a bike lock?

A: Most don’t as the areas the route travels through are pretty rural and crime is not much of an issue.

Q: Do I need lights?

A: Yes. One should have both a headlight and tail light, as there will be times when you have to be on paved roads with traffic, and travel at night.

Q: Do I need to worry about animals?

A: There is always a chance of animal encounters when spending so much time in the woods. Know things like bear safety, proper food storage, which animals are along the route and how to conduct yourself safely.

Q: Do I need to worry about lightening?

A: Yes, lightening should be high on your list of things to be on the look out for. Due to the elevation of the route, lack of trees up high, and the fact that the race is held during the monsoon season, lightening is always a possibility.

Q: Do I need to be concerned about altitude sickness?

A: Yes, with an average elevation of over 10,300′ (3139m), a high point over 13,000′ (3692m), and dehydration, altitude sickness is a serious concern. Not to mention most riders are coming from much lower elevations and will not be acclimatized.

Q: What other things should I be concerned about on the CTR?

A: Snow can fall any time in the high country so be prepared for all times of weather. Speaking of weather, it can change very fast at elevation so monitor it regularly. Hypothermia is a concern due to the two factors I just mentioned. The remoteness and difficulty of the route should not be taken lightly.

Colorado Trail Race Rider Survey

The Project conducts an ongoing rider survey to help new riders try to figure out what gear to use during the Colorado Trail Race. Undertaking a ride/adventure like the CTR can be very intimidating and the planning can be overwhelming. It’s our hope this survey will help new riders with their planning and execution of their CTR, as well as help ensure riders are more properly prepared for their adventure.

If you haven’t taken the CTR Rider Survey yet and would like to you can at the links below.

***Please pay attention to the examples for the questions where you have to type in your answer. If answers are not entered EXACTLY like the example I have to go in and correct them and it also throws off the results. Thanks in advance!

Take Survey 1

Covers: bikes, suspension, tires & wheels, drivetrain, and Components.

Take Survey 2

Covers: navigation planning, camping, logistic/travel, clothes, and more.

Survey 1 Results

Survey 2 Results

Conclusion

Colorado Trail Race FAQ

The Colorado Trail Race FAQ is designed to provide you with the essential knowledge needed to tackle this demanding and technical bikepacking race. From travel logistics and resupply strategies to gear selection and safety considerations, this guide covers key aspects of preparing for the CTR. With rugged terrain, unpredictable mountain weather, and minimal outside support, proper planning is essential to success.

We know that every rider’s experience is unique, and there may be additional questions not covered in this FAQ. If you have a question or think there’s an important topic we’ve missed, we’d love to hear from you! Please use our Contact Page to reach out and share your feedback.

For even more in-depth resources, be sure to visit our Colorado Trail Race Resource Page. Whether you need insights on the route, resupply strategies, electronics, or clothing choices, we have the information to help you prepare. Start planning today and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

More Helpful CTR Resources

Everything you need to plan a bikepacking trip on the CTR.

Colorado Trail Planning Aids: Resupply, Mileage, and More

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Checkout our full line of CTR Planning Aids at our store. Choice from NOBO and SOBO and more.

Colorado Trail: My Prove Triple Crown Bikepacking Gear

A detailed look at what I used on the CTR, what worked and what didn’t.

Colorado Trail Gear: What Worked Well and What’s Even Better

In depth look at what I would bring for gear and why, if I rode the CTR again.

Colorado Trail Rider Survey: Essential Gear Insights for New Riders

Curios to know what gear other riders used to get to the finish line? Checkout our Rider Surveys to find out what works or to take the survey yourself.