Run or ride the Grand Traverse course in the summer

Registration is open

Crested Butte Nordic Council announces that they will offer a summer trail run and bike over the same course as their winter backcountry ski race. On Saturday, August 16, runners and bikers will start in Crested Butte and traverse the Elk Mountain range over 40 miles to finish in Aspen at the base area. This is the first year for the Grand Traverse Mountain Run & Bike; the winter ski race is in its 17th year.
“Our Winter athlete is continually aspiring to be in the mountains year round seeking the next adventure. So naturally our goal for the GT brand is to eventually hold three separate events, for a trifecta race series that tests the limits and versatility of our participants” said Bryan Wickenhauser, co-race Director of the ski race.
Co-race Director of the summer race, Benn Dunn added, “We’re excited to bring a unique event to the trail running and biking community unconstrained by the need to adhere to an arbitrary distance requirement. Instead, we are providing a point to point trail run linking the historic mining towns of Crested Butte and Aspen along the same route used by the winter event.”
Saturday August 16, 2014, runners, followed by bikers, will embark on the 40-mile backcountry trail run from Crested Butte to Aspen. The rugged course follows 1880’s mail routes and with an 8,000+ vertical gain, racers will be put to the test.
Racers can compete individually or in teams of two. This is not a relay race. Both teammates must arrive at each checkpoint together and finish the race together, just as in the winter race. There will be aid stations and cut off points along the course. The recommended gear includes water container, CORSAR card, buff, sunglasses and a wind shell with a hood.
Cost is $75 for individuals and $140 for teams of two before August 1, 2014. After August 1, it’s $90 for individuals and $160 for teams of two. Online registration closes at 5 p.m. on August 15; no day of registration is available. For more information, including a map of the course, and to register visit www.elkmountainstraverse.com/summer.