Flaming Foliage Relay

If you’ve ever experienced fall in the Rocky Mountains you know what a magical time it is. If you’ve never been up high when the leaves are starting to change, you are definitely missing out. With cool temperatures, sunny days, and stunning scenery, many people believe autumn is the best time to get out and enjoy the high country. And while a drive up through the mountains in the fall can be a nice way to spend a day, we think you should take it one step further. We think you should get out and experience it on foot!

The Flaming Foliage Relay takes the best parts of the old Outward Bound Relay route and throws in some new and scenic challenges. This relay begins in the quaint town of Idaho Springs and traverses 165 miles and three rugged mountain passes before finishing in charming Buena Vista on the banks of the Arkansas River. Along the way you’ll run on roads and trails through some of the most amazing scenery Colorado has to offer.

The Flaming Foliage Relay begins by following the original Colorado Relay course. Created by Outward Bound in 1998, this route takes runners from Idaho Springs to Georgetown, up and over the summit of Guanella Pass (11,669 ft) , on a series of singletrack trails to go over Georgia Pass (11,598 ft) to Breckenridge, then on bike paths through Frisco to Copper Mountain.

From Copper, the course then sets out on new and uncharted terrain as it heads over Fremont Pass (11,318 ft) to Leadville, around Turquoise Lake, and down the Arkansas River Valley. You’ll finish your adventures in beautiful Buena Vista where you’ll celebrate with a meal and cold beer.

This course is as rewarding as it is challenging and it will be an experience that you’ll certainly never forget!

**Proof of vaccination and booster is required to participate. Read our Covid policy here: https://www.rltrelays.com/covid-policies