Trail running can be awesome. But what’s your ideal trail run or trail race?

For beginners, we always suggest a shorter distance event. Something that challenges you but doesn’t scare you out of your mind.

Here are THREE tips on choosing a first trail run race.

• Distance friendly? – The longer the race the more challenging the event tends to be. Start small and gradually build into longer races
• Elevation friendly? – Trail running can take place just about anywhere in the world. Here in Colorado we generally see trail races at all elevations, all the way up to 12,000ft. Make sure you are prepared to race at elevation if you don’t live here
• Low pressure environment? – If there’s a buzz about your race event and it seems as if all the super elites are racing it and ultra fast pacers and 145-time marathoners, take a step back and see if the event is really something you want to take part in as a first race. Feeling ‘left behind’ can suck on race day

Our Timberview Trail Run in August right here in Lory State Park is an absolutely great beginner friendly trail run.