Leadville Junior 5K
Leadville Junior 5K
Leadville Race Series
Leadville Race Series
Leadville Junior 5K
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Leadville Junior 5K

Leadville Junior 5K

5KColoradoSaturday, July 11, 2026

Dig deep and rise above the Rockies at the Silver Rush Run

Overview

The Silver Rush Run is where grit meets glory. This legendary high-altitude challenge winds through the historic mining country of Leadville, Colorado, with sweeping panoramas of towering 14,000ft peaks. Every climb rewards runners with rugged beauty, every descent pushes the limits of endurance, and every mile tests your willpower.

The 50M course is a rite of passage for those chasing the Leadville Trail 100 dream, offering a qualifying shot at the iconic “Race Across the Sky.” Whether you take on the ultra, the speedy 15M, or the energetic Juniors 5K, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking Rocky Mountain backdrops and the spirit of a community that lives and breathes adventure.

Western States QualifierCuplessVegan Friendly

This year’s event took place on

Saturday, July 11, 2026

Start: 6:00 AM

Registration
ClosesJul 10, 2026
Western States Endurance Run
Western States Qualifier
UTMB Index
UTMB Qualifier
Official race details:Leadville Junior 5K
0 participant limit

Course

Elevation Gain8,000 ft, 1,750 ft, 200 ft
Elevation Loss8,000 ft, 1,750 ft, 200 ft
Max Altitude11, 200ft
Cutoff Time12HR, 4HR, no cutoff

The Silver Rush course starts in the heart of Leadville’s mining district and quickly climbs into the high alpine, where rugged jeep roads and singletrack trails weave through old mining ruins, groves of aspen, and fields of wildflowers. Runners should expect relentless ascents, quad-crushing descents, and stretches above treeline where the air is thin but the views are unmatched. Weather can change quickly in the Rockies, so be ready for sun, wind, or even afternoon storms.

50M runners will test themselves with a relentless double out-and-back that climbs to nearly 12,000ft four times, packing in serious vertical. The 15M race offers a condensed version of the challenge with steep climbs and descents that deliver the same mountain intensity. Juniors get to taste the magic of Leadville with a family-friendly 5K loop.

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Cutoff Details

Start Time

50M, start at July 12, 2025 6:00AM
15M, start at July 12, 2025 8:00AM
5K Juniors, start at July 13, 2025 9:00AM

Cutoff Time

50M, 12HR overall, Cutoff 1 at Printer Boy Aid Station July 12, 2025 10:30AM
15M, 4HR overall
5K Juniors, no cutoff

Logistics

Schedule


Bib Pickup


Drop Bags


Crew & Pacers


Swag & Medals


Getting There

Denver International Airport is the primary gateway, approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours by car depending on traffic and weather. Colorado Springs Airport is an alternative option with a scenic mountain drive to Leadville. Downtown Leadville hosts the Expo, start, and finish, making walkability and shuttles practical for crews.

Driving Directions


Parking

USFS day-use fees may be required at certain access points. Follow on-site signage and crew parking staff. Crew parking is staffed by attendants with designated areas at official crew locations. Expect congestion at Twin Lakes and leave extra time to walk to the aid stations. Obey all posted restrictions and never block emergency access.

Lodging

Stay in Leadville for maximum convenience near the Expo, start, and finish. Nearby towns such as Buena Vista and Twin Lakes offer additional hotels, cabins, and camping. Camping in certain day-use areas is not allowed; follow USFS guidance and local rules.

Leadville, colorado

Requirements

Mandatory Gear


Policies

Charity & Beneficiary


Land Acknowledgement

This race takes place on the traditional homelands of the Núu-agha-tʉvʉ-pʉ̱ (Ute) peoples who have stewarded the central Colorado mountains since time immemorial. We honor their enduring relationship to this land and encourage all participants to treat the course and surrounding communities with respect and care.

Leadville Junior 5K logo

Disclaimer

We make every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information on Kåduka, but details may change. Please always confirm the latest information on the official race website. See something that needs correcting? Send us a note at [email protected]