If you’re like me, then trail running is a fun way to get outside, clear your head, and enjoy the natural high that you get from running in the mountains around Park City. It’s also a great excuse for why I can follow that form of exercise with a burger, fries and a beer. Staying motivated usually isn’t a problem, but at the end of a long work day it can be a little too easy to say, “I’ll go tomorrow instead.” One way to keep up your momentum is to set a goal. Entering an individual race or race series can be that extra motivation to throw on your running shoes and hit the trails. You don’t need to be a competitive athlete to enter a trail running race. Go for fun, go to challenge yourself, and if you think you can go for the podium, then that’s just an added bonus.
Park City Trail Series
Who
Trail runners wanting to ease into the idea of racing
What
This progression of 4 races starts with a 5K race and ends with a half marathon.
When
5K – June 21st at 8:00 AM
10K – July 12th at 8:00 AM
15K – August 9th at 8:00 AM
Half Marathon – September 20th at 8:00 AM
Where
Round Valley Trailhead in Quinn’s Junction.
Triple Trail Challenge
Who
The Mountain Trails Foundation hosts a set of three races over the course of the summer and early fall. For runners who want to complete all three races, you can enter yourself into the “Triple Trail Challenge,” or just take the races one at a time. This race series is best taken on by seasoned runners who have experience with grueling races.
What
The Jupiter Peak Steeplechase is a 16 mile race starting with a climb from the bottom of the First Time chair lift at PCMR to the top of Jupiter Peak, with a downhill that ends at Silver Star Café.
The Park City Marathon and Half Marathon start and end at the Newpark Town Center, and run up and around Old Town and other scenic parts of Park City.
The Mid-Mountain Marathon is a trail race starting at the beginning of the Mid-Mountain Trail, and wandering up and down the trail system around Deer Valley and PCMR before ending at the Canyons Resort.
When
Jupiter Steeplechase – August 2nd at 8:00 AM
PC Marathon – August 16th at 6:30 AM
Mid Mountain Marathon – September 13th at 8:00 AM
Where
Jupiter Steeplechase – PCMR Parking Lot
PC Marathon – Newpark Town Center
Mid Mountain Marathon – Park at Canyons with a shuttle to Silver Lake Lodge
Wasatch Trail Run Series
Who
Runners looking for that next level race; some moderate to difficult climbing in these races.
What
This race series is already in full swing and is going to be making its debut in Park City on June 25th! The plan is to host more races up in Park City in subsequent summers, so keep an eye on the race calendar.
When
Every Wednesday. Start time is 6:30 AM.
Where
Corner Canyon through mid-June, assorted ski areas for the rest of the summer; Deer Valley on June 25th!
North Face Endurance Challenge
Who
Something for everyone – from the recreational runner, to those who love to live in the pain cave.
What
A new option for the Park City area this fall with possibilities ranging from a 5K to a 50 mile race, a kid’s race and a relay option.
When
October 3rd and 4th. Start times vary from 5:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
Where
Park City Mountain Resort
— Patrick Coffey, Summer Programs Director
