Race FAQ

When and where is packet pickup? You can pick up your bib and swag on Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Bond’s Brewing in downtown Laramie (411 South 2nd Street). Take the time to take in the nearby Farmer’s Market while you’re there. Bibs and packets are available at Lake Owen on race morning starting at 5:15 a.m. Marathoners can get their bib as they load on the shuttle bus or at the starting line at Pelton Creek just before the race starts. 

How much is the entry fee for 2024?  Entry for the Marathon is $75 and $50 for the Half Marathon up to July 25. Rates go up to $90 for the Marathon and $65 for the Half Marathon after July 25. Race day registration is possible for the half marathon with payment by check or cash; race day registration for the marathon is not recommended due to limitations on shuttle numbers. In-person registration is possible at the Friday packet pick-up.

What time do the races start in 2024? The marathon starts at 7 a.m. from the Pelton Creek Trailhead. The half marathon takes off from the Lake Owen Trailhead at 8 a.m.

Are there cutoff times? There are no cutoff times, although all racers must cross the finish line by 2:30 p.m. That is when the finish line is dismantled. This gives marathoners 7 1/2 hours and half marathoners 6 1/2 hours to cross the finish line. Those still on the course at the time of the finish line closure are free to continue with the understanding that there is no support or finish time.

What will be provided at the aid stations? We provide water, Gatorade, and minimal food – nearly all Honey Stinger product.

What shuttles will be available for the marathon racers? It is recommended that marathoners arrange to be dropped off at the Pelton Creek Trailhead, if at all possible. All marathoners that need transport will be shuttled via bus from the check-in and parking area at Lake Owen to the starting line at Pelton Creek Trailhead. The bus leaves at 5:45 a.m. with loading starting at 5:30 a.m.

Can I drop off any clothing items at the start of the marathon? Yes. We will have a drop-off site at Pelton Creek starting line. If you drop off clothing on the marathon at either of the first two aid stations, all gear will be available at the finish line. It is the runner’s responsibility to pick it up FROM THE RED TRUCK tailgate near the finish line. The items will be in laundry baskets on the tailgate. Please do not drop off items on the half marathon course unless you plan to wait until those aid stations close and the volunteers arrive at the finish line.

What is the cancellation policy? Full refunds (not including the processing fee) will be provided if the event is cancelled by the event directors. For participants needing to cancel, full refunds (sent by mail) are provided up to July 15, 2024 (not including processing fees). There are no refunds after that date.

If needed, can I change my race distance from the marathon to the half? Up to race day you can make that change by contacting the Race Director ([email protected]). There is no refund for the entry fee difference.

What is the registration deadline? Online registration closes August 9, but entry is in-person at packet pickup on that date. Race day entry is possible, but those registering for the marathon may not be able to ride the shuttle due to space limitations. The event it limited to a total of 200 runners due to limited parking.

Awards: Trophy awards will be presented to the top overall finishers in both races and genders and Rail Trail prizes to the top three finishers in both genders with the following age categories:

  • Age 13 to 19 (half marathon only)
  • Age 20 to 29 (29 and under for marathon)
  • 30 to 39
  • 40 to 49
  • 50 to 59
  • 60 and over

All racers who complete their event receive finisher medals.

Pacers or others joining participants on the courses: There is limited space on much of the path around Lake Owen, making it unsuitable for having anyone accompany racers, especially via bicycle or any mode other than on foot.

Pets on the course: The course is unsuitable for canine running pals. There are long sections with no water access, making it stressful for a dog to tag along. It is recommended to have your pet meet you only when you’re done racing.

Lodging: The nearest lodging to the race location is at the Albany Lodge. From the Lodge to Lake Owen is about a 20 minute drive.

Additional lodging possibilities are available on the Visit Laramie website.

Camping: The Lake Owen Campground is open on a first come basis. It is a large campground with lots of spaces. Bring your own water, though, since the campground lacks potable water.  The campground is within about a half mile of the start line for the half marathon and the loading point for the bus shuttle for the marathon. Those staying in the campground should either walk or bike to the start line and keep their vehicles at the campground.