This race is a part of a trail series in the Denver metro area. As a resident Midwesterner, I obviously didn't get to run the entire series, but I would if I could.

The Louisville race is touted as the flattest and easiest of the series, but keep in mind this is Colorado flat...not Iowa flat.

I picked up my packet at a local running store the night before the race, although if I remember correctly, there was race day pickup as well. You get your shirt along with a few other goodies in the bag, and the bag itself was a very nice reusable bag.

The morning of the race, I drove the 20 minutes or so from downtown Denver to the start. Parking was easy, as there is a lot big enough for most all racers right off the start/finish line. Honestly, there's not much going on before the race starts, and only a few porta-pods out as well.

The temps were cool in the morning, but as the sun came out, the temperature went up, and went up quick into the 90s by mid day. At the start line, the race director let us know that due to recent rains, part of the course was underwater, so we wouldn't be getting exactly 13.1 (I think we got 12.8).

The race starts off heading down a limestone trail before hitting a concrete bike path, all of this around a wildlife preserve. The first part of the race is a simple 5 mile loop that takes you back to the start line. Then you head off on the out and back portion of the race to get the rest.

Quickly after passing the start, you are back on limestone for the rest of the way. Oh, and you ascend up a steep hill. It's a rough climb, but it contributes to one of the most epic race photos you'll even have, coming up the hill with the Rocky Mountains in the background. Plus, once you've made it to the top, it's all downhill to the turnaround.

And then all uphill on the way back.

We did a little extra loop on the way back to get the distance closer to 13.1.

The postrace was actually pretty good. Lots of vendors, food, and drinks available. Like I said, the temperature was rising fairly quick, so most runners were seeking out the limited shade available.

While this race is billed as a trail race, it's run entirely on a limestone path. While it's definitely not a road race, I wouldn't compare it some of your more "traditional" trail races. Ultimately, if I was in the area when this is run, I would do this again. Would I make a special trip for it? No, but it's definitely a worthwhile race to run if you need 13 miles and are in the area.