Thumbs Up Vertical Challenge
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Event
The Thumbs Up Vertical Challenge takes place in Estes Park, CO on December 6, 2025. The event is limited to 30 participants and entry opens on September 1, 2025. Runners must not park at the trailhead; drop-off is allowed and participants are asked to arrive by bike, on foot, or by being dropped off.
Course and format
The race uses the Thumb Open Space out-and-back trail. Each lap includes about 540 ft of ascent on single-track switchbacks, steps and steep rocks. At the turnaround runners collect one poker chip and return it to their assigned jar at the start; collected chips are counted at the end of the event to determine placing. Unique patches are awarded at three milestones: 14 ascents (Estes Park, 7,522'), 18 ascents (Deer Mountain, 10,103'), and 26 ascents (Longs Peak, 14,259'). The trail offers views of Longs Peak, Mount Meeker, and Twin Sisters from nearly the entire route. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.