A recent summer adventure had us running to the mountains. On August 1st, we participated in Vacation Races’ Rocky Mountain Half and 5K in Estes Park, Colorado. This one was extra special because we met up with my grandma, my parents, and their two dogs for a quick family getaway.
William and I made Denver our landing spot, rented a car, and enjoyed the scenic drive up into Estes Park. The town feels tucked away, surrounded by peaks and full of good food and hidden gems. For lodging, we couldn’t resist the historic Stanley Hotel – a must for Stephen King fans and anyone who’s ever had The Shining on their bookshelf or screen.
The race itself was part of a two-day event (5K Friday, half marathon Saturday). Along with ~650 others from all over the country, we opted for the 5K (3.1 miles). It took place during the evening on the same day we flew in, which let us save Saturday for sightseeing. Running at altitude was no easy task, but the views more than made up for the thinner air. I crossed the finish line in 28:20, and William followed in 33:39. It was our highest-altitude race of the year, and the mountain backdrop made every step worth it.
Saturday, we traded running shoes for car seats and drove through Rocky Mountain National Park, winding our way up to the Alpine Visitor Center at over 11,000 feet elevation. The views were jaw-dropping, and the drive itself was an adventure.
It was a short trip – just two nights – but packed with family time, mountain air, and a race we won’t forget.
Next national park race: Great Smoky Mountains Half & 5K in August 2026, where we’ll be tackling both the 5K and the half marathon.
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