About This Race
Devil on the Divide stands among Colorado's most demanding and scenic trail races, combining high-altitude challenge with Continental Divide vistas in Clear Creek County. The race takes runners through remote mountain terrain with summit elevations exceeding 13,000 feet, making it as much a test of altitude adaptation as running fitness. The point-to-point courses feature 100% dirt surfaces, predominantly single track, winding through some of Colorado's most pristine and challenging backcountry. This race demands respect and preparation. The 50K requires prior ultra experience, while the 22K strongly recommends high-altitude trail running background. Race directors enforce strict cutoff times and verify experience levels, understanding that the remote, technical terrain leaves little room for error. The combination of altitude, distance, and technical terrain creates a genuinely challenging mountain running experience.
Both distances follow point-to-point routes through Clear Creek County's high country, starting in Empire, Colorado. The courses consist entirely of dirt surfaces with the majority being technical single track trail. The 50K reaches elevations over 13,000 feet with 6,500 feet of climbing, while the 22K involves 3,400 feet of elevation gain. The remote, mountainous terrain requires confident navigation skills and mountain running experience.
Elevation Profile
The course gains 6,499 ft over 31 miles, with the steepest section between mile 8–mile 8.
Course Map
Route shown is approximate and for illustration purposes.
Practical Info
September mountain weather in Colorado can range from warm and sunny to cold with potential for snow at elevation, requiring layered clothing preparation.
DEN - Denver International Airport
Empire is a small mountain town with limited lodging options; many runners stay in nearby Georgetown or Idaho Springs for better accommodation availability.
Best For
Notable Features
Devil on the Divide distinguishes itself through its uncompromising high-altitude challenge and stunning Continental Divide scenery. The race's commitment to maintaining difficult standards, including experience verification and strict cutoffs, attracts serious mountain runners seeking authentic backcountry challenges. The point-to-point format through remote terrain offers an immersive wilderness experience rarely found in organized racing.
Prepare for This Race
GEAR GUIDE
The Best Hydration Vests for Ultrarunning in 2026
A tested guide to the best hydration vests for ultra marathons and long trail races — from lightweight racing vests to high-capacity mountain packs.
6 min read
RACE GUIDE
The Best Trail Races for Your First Ultra
A thoughtful guide to choosing your first ultra marathon — what to look for in a course, how to evaluate difficulty, and five races worth considering.
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FROM THE TRAIL
How to Read an Elevation Profile (And Why It Matters More Than Distance)
Elevation profiles reveal the true character of a trail race. Learn to read the shape of a course and understand what it means for your race day experience.
3 min read
GEAR GUIDE
The Best Hydration Vests for Ultrarunning in 2026
A tested guide to the best hydration vests for ultra marathons and long trail races — from lightweight racing vests to high-capacity mountain packs.
RACE GUIDE
The Best Trail Races for Your First Ultra
A thoughtful guide to choosing your first ultra marathon — what to look for in a course, how to evaluate difficulty, and five races worth considering.
FROM THE TRAIL
How to Read an Elevation Profile (And Why It Matters More Than Distance)
Elevation profiles reveal the true character of a trail race. Learn to read the shape of a course and understand what it means for your race day experience.
