Pikes Peak Marathon 70th Anniversary

Known as “America’s Ultimate Challenge” the Pikes Peak Marathon is a race like no other. With a 7,800-foot vertical climb, the course takes runners from Manitou Springs, Colorado, along Barr Trail to the summit of Pikes Peak at 14,115 feet —and back— for a total of 26.2 grueling mountain miles.

For seven decades, dedicated runners have competed in this Ultimate Challenge, meaning that September 2025 marks the 70th anniversary of the Pikes Peak Marathon.

In partnership with the Pikes Pike Marathon & Ascent organization, the Manitou Springs Heritage Museum is hosting “Pikes Peak Marathon 70th Anniversary,” an informative exhibit that will provide historical highlights of each decade as the race evolved and will feature some legendary runners throughout the years. The exhibit opens 5-8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5, and runs through Wednesday, Dec. 31.