Running Up for Air - Grandeur

I ran the twelve hour race in 2025 with my son. The weather created perfect trail conditions for a winter race. We experienced a variety of conditions during our time on the course including a beautiful sunrise, blizzard conditions, extreme cold and sunny blue skies. This race has one base aid station that had a variety of sugary treats, drinks and food. They had freshly cooked food including cascades, sandwiches and bacon! You can also take advantage of the warming tent near the grills while you enjoy a quick meal before heading out for another out and back. The staff were helpful, very positive and encouraging. This race raises money to improve local environmental issues which makes this race totally worth your time. I highly recommend giving this race a chance and you really can’t beat those mountain panoramic views over and over again.

I signed up for the Running Up For Air – Grandeur race in February as a way to kick off my running season on a strong note. The event exceeded my expectations, with exceptional organization that ensured everything ran smoothly—from tracking participant times manually to keeping a clear record of when runners ascend and descend the mountain. Though it was an out-and-back course, the cold weather did little to detract from the experience. The views from the top were absolutely breathtaking, and each ascent offered a unique perspective of the landscape. One of the highlights of the race was the sense of community among participants. Despite the occasional crowding, the runners were always friendly, creating a supportive and welcoming atmosphere. I truly enjoy races like this where I can connect with others who share a passion for running and appreciate being out in nature, even alongside strangers who share that same love. Though the conditions were cold, snowy, and wet—typical for the time of year—it was important to be prepared for the unpredictable weather. The fast-changing conditions on the trail made it a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience. Completing my first 12-hour race was an unforgettable achievement, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to have taken part in such a well-executed event.