About This Race
The Royal Gorge Groove is a scenic trail running event in Cañon City, Colorado, that challenges participants with a variety of distances, including a signature 50K ultramarathon. Runners traverse rugged terrain along the dramatic rim of the Royal Gorge, where they encounter breathtaking 900-foot drop-offs and views of the Arkansas River. Organized by Aravaipa Running, the race is part of a festive multi-sport weekend that transitions from trail runs on Saturday to mountain bike races on Sunday.
What Makes It Unique
- Spectacular Rim Running: The course features technical trails that hug the edge of the Royal Gorge, offering runners dizzying views of the Arkansas River from 900 feet above.
- Multi-Sport Weekend: It is a unique 'Run & Bike' double-header event, allowing athletes to compete in trail runs on Saturday and return for mountain bike races on Sunday.
- Diverse High-Country Terrain: The route blends rocky, technical climbs with fast, flowy singletrack and forest roads, reaching a maximum elevation of over 7,100 feet.
50K
30K
20K
12.5K
5K
Kids Run
Media Coverage
MassUltra Roundup: Forgotten Forest, Promise Land, Mendocino Coast, Leona Divide, Royal Gorge, and Capitan Mountain
MassUltra
This editorial roundup profiles the Royal Gorge Groove 50K course, noting its 4,200 feet of climbing on the trails in and around Royal Gorge Park and its scenic rim-side running.
Aravaipa Colorado Rego-Thon | Aravaipa Trail Talk LIVE #72
Steep Life Media / Simplecast
An in-depth podcast episode discussing the Aravaipa Colorado series, featuring a deep dive into the Royal Gorge Groove's terrain, course updates, and what to expect on race weekend.