Short answer: Run Rabbit Run 100 is a 100-mile mountain race in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, held each year in early fall, with roughly 20,000 ft of climb and a high point around 10,000 ft. It runs as two divisions on the same course: the Hares, an elite division racing for prize money, and the Tortoises, the open division most runners enter, which starts earlier and has the longer cutoff.
Start times, cutoffs and qualifying rules change between editions, so confirm them in the current runner handbook on the race website before you plan pacing or travel.
| Location | Steamboat Springs, Colorado |
|---|---|
| Distance | 100 miles |
| Climb | Roughly 20,000 ft (confirm on the current course page) |
| High point | Around 10,000 ft |
| Divisions | Hares (elite, prize money) and Tortoises (open) |
| Season | Early fall |
| Best for | Spectators and crews: several crew points near town |
Run Rabbit Run 100 is one of the most spectator-friendly mountain 100-milers in the U.S. The two-division format puts an elite prize-money race (the Hares) and an open race (the Tortoises) on the same course on the same weekend, which gives the event a mix of professional polish and small-race warmth.
The course
Two-loop course around the Steamboat ski-resort area, climbing through aspen forests up to ridge-top exposed sections, with views into the Yampa Valley. Signature sections: Long Lake (mile 17), Fish Creek Falls (mile 32), Summit Lake (the high point, around 10,000 ft). The course is more runnable than Hardrock or Wasatch, fewer technical sections, more rolling jeep roads and single-track.
How to qualify and enter
The Tortoise race is the open entry most runners use; it has historically required a prior ultra finish as a qualifier and can fill quickly once registration opens. The Hare race is for elite runners and carries one of the larger prize purses in North American trail running. Check the current entry rules on the race website, since they change between editions.
The Steamboat advantage
Run Rabbit Run is built for spectators. The two-loop format means crew can see runners 4–6 times. Aid stations are accessible by car or short hike. The town of Steamboat fully embraces the race, restaurants, hotels, and downtown shops are ultra-friendly that weekend. This makes Run Rabbit Run the right race to bring family who want to spectate without spending all day in the woods.
Gear strategy
- Vest: 8–12L. Salomon Adv Skin 12.
- Shoes: Hoka Speedgoat 6, runnable course rewards cushion.
- Layers: long sleeve + beanie for the high points; can drop into the 30s.
- Headlamp: primary + spare. 8–12 hours of dark for most finishers.
The Run Rabbit Run experience
Most finishers describe Run Rabbit Run as the most fun 100-miler on the calendar. The unique two-format setup, the Steamboat town atmosphere, and the friendliness of both the volunteer corps and the race directors make it stand out. Not as iconic as Western States or Hardrock, but for a first 100, or a second after a tough debut, the right pick.
Common questions
Where is Run Rabbit Run 100?
Steamboat Springs, Colorado, on trails around the ski area and the surrounding mountains.
What is the difference between Hares and Tortoises?
Hares is the elite division racing for prize money; Tortoises is the open division. Both run the same 100-mile course, with the Tortoises starting earlier and getting a longer cutoff.
Is Run Rabbit Run a good first 100?
It is one of the more runnable Colorado mountain 100s, with good crew access, which is why many runners choose it for a first or second 100. The altitude still demands acclimation.
Where do I find start times and cutoffs?
In the current runner handbook on the official race website; they are set per edition.
Sources: our race research and the Run Rabbit Run event materials. Verify start times, cutoffs and qualifying rules with the race directly. Researched, not professional coaching advice.
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