Trail running in Colorado is unlike anywhere else—elevation, terrain, wildlife, and weather all create a unique challenge for beginners and veterans alike. If you’ve ever wondered how to get started or level up your trail game here, this is your complete guide. As a hybrid athlete and Colorado-based runner, I’ve spent hundreds of hours navigating these trails—this guide shares everything I’ve learned the hard way (and still learning), so you don’t have to.
Why Trail Running in Colorado is Special
Colorado’s elevation, diverse ecosystems, and four-season conditions make it a haven for endurance athletes.
Here’s what makes it different:
- High altitude: Most popular trails sit between 6,000–10,000 feet
- Technical terrain: Rocks, switchbacks, and elevation gain are the norm
- Wildlife: Mountain lions, bears, and rattlesnakes (yep)
- Weather: Fast-changing temps and sudden storms
How to Train for the Colorado Trails
- Adapt to Altitude Gradually: Spend at least 3–5 days acclimating before doing hard efforts above 8,000 ft.
- Focus on Strength & Stability: Incorporate single-leg work, core training, and hill sprints.
- Practice Technical Downhill Running: It’s a skill. Learn to stay loose, scan ahead, and let gravity help.
Must-Have Gear Checklist
- Trail running shoes: I like the Ultra 3 by VJ Shoes because of their grip and durability. You can use discount Code: OMAR20 at checkout.
- Hydration Pack: I’ve had the Salomon ADV 12 for 2 years and have had no issues.
- Emergency whistle (Just in case)
- Windbreaker or shell (I love the Phantom Ultralight Jacket from Rab because it literally can insulate so much heat while keeping you dry. It’s so great for Winter running too!
- Bear spray for remote zones: This is real. The further you go out into remote areas the higher risk you run of running into a bear.
- Identification: I like to have my ID just in case I fall or for some reason am unconscious that I can be identified.
My Favorite Beginner Trails
- South Table Mountain (Golden): Slight uphill in the first mile then smooth sailings after
- North Table Mountain (Golden): Gentle climb and fun loop
- Green Mountain (Lakewood): Tougher climb in the middle but rolling hills for the most
Safety Tips You Can’t Ignore
- Always tell someone where you’re going
- Bring more water than you think you need
- Run with a light or start early—sunsets are fast in the mountains
- Download AllTrails to download offline maps
Final Thoughts
Colorado’s trails will challenge you—but they’ll also change you. Whether you’re in it for fitness, mental clarity, or race prep, trail running here builds more than just strong legs.
👉 Want to dive deeper? Watch my YouTube video on trail running in Colorado
👉 Save this guide & share it with a friend who’s ready to hit the trail!