If you're a "flat-lander" looking for a challenging race at elevation - you can't go wrong with this race! This downhill race has a few rolling hills but due to the nature of the downhill in the canyon you will fair well.

The race starts at 5500 ft and while you do feel the elevation, start out slow and you will be just fine. This race is a smaller race with only about 1000 people running. I loved the smaller field size. Most of the race is on a two lane road or paved trail. Very scenic.

The race expo is small but so is the race..... so that's ok. The medal is AMAZING - look below for a pic. I was a little disappointed in the race SWAG at the expo. There was no gear to purchase for the half marathon - a missed opportunity for marketing for sure. I ALWAYS try to buy additional clothing items at races, but they only had gear that read 'marathon.'

The race finisher shirt is a BROOKS technical running shirt which is great! Fits and washes well and it was a bright color.

Race organization was great. We received many race e-mails leading up to the race with clear communication and if you followed twitter and instagram you got even more.

On course aid stations had NUUN, water and Honey Stingers. Porta potties were spaced accordingly on the course.

If you're looking for spectators to get you through, there weren't many. This race was one to truly enjoy your experience and the scenery around you. Open pastures, beautiful foothills, Colorado mountain air. I am SO glad I chose this race.

Even though this race has a small field size I much prefer that over very large races. It was an intimate race with a fabulous post-race celebration in Old Town Square. If you haven't checked off Colorado on your state list - do this race.