The Colfax Marathon is Denver&rsquo;s signature running event, offering an incredible combination of urban adventure, scenic routes, and an unbeatable race-day atmosphere. With a course that winds through some of the city&rsquo;s most vibrant neighborhoods, historic districts, and along the scenic Platte River, this race delivers a true Mile High experience.
Participants begin their journey near City Park, taking in panoramic views of the Denver skyline and the Rocky Mountains in the distance. The course takes runners past iconic landmarks, beautiful lakefront paths, and the bustling energy of Colfax Avenue, one of the longest continuous streets in the U.S. A unique highlight of this marathon is the opportunity to run through Denver Fire Station #1, offering an unforgettable mid-course experience.
Beyond the full marathon, runners can choose from multiple race distances, including the half marathon, urban 10-miler, and marathon relay, making the event accessible to runners of all skill levels. Enthusiastic crowd support and lively entertainment along the route keep the energy levels high, ensuring a motivating and fun-filled experience from start to finish.
The post-race festival in City Park provides an ideal way to celebrate, featuring live music, food trucks, and a gathering of runners from across the country. Whether aiming for a personal best or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the Colfax Marathon captures the essence of running in the heart of Denver.
<h3>Why Runners Love This Race</h3>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Scenic and Urban Blend &ndash; A course featuring downtown landmarks, waterfront trails, and mountain views.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Fast and Engaging Course &ndash; A great mix of flat stretches and mild rolling hills keeps the race exciting.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">High-Energy Spectator Support &ndash; Local communities and event organizers bring incredible enthusiasm and entertainment.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">A Race for Everyone &ndash; Multiple distance options make it an inclusive and well-rounded event.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Things to Keep in Mind</h3>
<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Mile-High Elevation &ndash; Runners traveling from lower altitudes should allow time to acclimate.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Variable Weather &ndash; Denver&rsquo;s spring conditions can range from cool mornings to warm afternoons.</li>
</ul>
For runners looking for a thrilling city marathon in one of the most active and outdoors-loving cities in the U.S., the Colfax Marathon offers an unforgettable experience.

Colfax Marathon

Pre-Race Review/ Lineup

A first look at the medals of the 2025 Colfax Marathon on May 18.

Denver Colfax Marathon medals debut, showcasing iconic landmarks

Creigh Kelley, race director of Colfax Marathon since it started, is stepping down after 20 years.

Denver Colfax Marathon director stepping down

A recap on the record breaking 2024 Colfax Marathon in May.

Run and Give Back with the Colfax Marathon

Post-Race Review/ Results

A driver in a stolen vehicle drove on the race course of the 2024 Colfax Marathon narrowly missing runners.

Colfax Marathon runners almost hit by high-speed driver fleeing police

Very memorable marathon! Loved it, loved Denver!

An event for vendors / sponsors, not for runners

Buy your finisher shirts and bring your own GU

Excellent organization, course had lots to see

Well-Organized Race Showcasing Denver Warts & All

Now in it's 7th year, Colfax has hit it's stride

Good for me but I have heard a lot of complaints

Better than the first, but needs more improvement!

Much better course in 2008. '07 was a disaster.

Getting better each year; a few kinks to work out

Not bad org. for 2nd year, but the course is borin

Incline at end of race was brutal; great spectator

Good - but could definitely be better, please!

A hard marathon for my first but I am coming back.

Pretty darn good for an inaugural marathon

Tough, tough race; needed more water in 2nd half!

Denver, you may have finally found your marathon!

tough course with great workers and few spectators

Successful Inaugural Run On a Record High Day

Anyone have Issue with Mile Marker Placement?

Well organized - great support and participation

Colfax Marathon

Marathon Results