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Why the Steamboat Marathon Matters to Our Town (Even If You Don’t Run)

marathon runners next to a green grass and a snow capped mountain in the distance

 

Every June, the Steamboat Marathon brings something special to our town. Just before the summer crowds roll in, while the rivers still roar and the pastures turn that electric green, Steamboat comes alive for this beautiful and community-rooted event.

If you’re a runner, you probably already know what a big deal this is. But even if you’re not lacing up, this weekend is about more than racing. It’s about what we love most about living here, connection, nature, and showing up for each other.

Steamboat Marathon Logo featuring mountains

Lace up for one of North America’s most scenic races!

The 44th annual Steamboat Marathon, Half Marathon, and 10K kicks off Sunday, June 1, 2025. This iconic event guides runners along the roaring Elk River, through emerald pastures on County Road 129, all framed by Colorado’s snow-capped Rocky Mountains. Recognized as a top destination marathon, it offers a unique blend of breathtaking scenery and a welcoming, small-town atmosphere. While the full and half marathons are sold out, spots remain for the 10K. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable experience.

🏞️ It’s Not Just About the Race

Let’s be honest, not all of us are running 26.2 miles before brunch. But if you live here, you’ve probably cheered from the sidelines, volunteered at a water station, or waved at runners from your driveway. That’s the beauty of this event: whether you’re racing or simply rooting for your neighbors, you’re part of it.

There’s something grounding about seeing people from all walks of life come together on Country Road 129, passing barns, rivers, and those snow-tipped peaks. For those of us who call Steamboat home, it’s a reminder of how lucky we are, and how proud we are to share this place.

🏃 Still Want to Join In? 10K Has You Covered

This year’s marathon and half marathon sold out fast (no surprise there), but there are still spots open for the 10K, which is perfect if you’re looking for a more approachable way to join the fun. You’ll still get the scenery, the energy, and the cheers, without needing to train like a pro.

Register to run here!

💛 Why Locals Love The Steamboat Marathon

  • It brings the town together. Whether you’re volunteering, spectating, or racing, there’s a shared sense of celebration.

  • It supports our small businesses. The marathon draws visitors who eat, shop, and stay local.

  • It kicks off summer. There’s something about race weekend that signals, “Okay let’s do this, summer!”

🗓️ Make a Morning of It

Even if you’re not running, come out and support the racers. Bring a coffee, your loudest cowbell, and your Steamboat spirit. Race weekend is one of the few times we get to cheer on people we’ve never met and feel like we’re all part of something bigger.


Here’s to another amazing race weekend in the valley we love. If you want to learn more about community events, visit our blog.