The Red River Office of Tourism and Economic Development has announced that the Enchanted Forest Trail Races produced by Gemini Adventures will be held on July 31. The event replaces the High Mountain Half Marathon & 5K race originally set for May 20, which has been organized by the Red River Chamber of Commerce since 2011.
Gemini Adventures has been contracted to organize and oversee the event. Founded in 2003 and headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, Gemini conducts running tours and races and mountain bike races.
According to the Gemini website, “Gemini Adventures searches for courses that are on trails in beautiful, remote areas. We design events that are challenging for everyone to finish, yet create great competition for the front of the pack. We’re here to challenge you and create a memorable event for you and your family.
“The goal is to hold races that most competitors wouldn’t be able to do on their own because doing the event requires support, or because the course is longer or more challenging than most participants would consider doing alone. Our races draw those looking for a unique challenge. There’s nothing better than competition to bring out the best in everyone.”
Two races are planned for the one-day event: a Marathon and a Half Marathon.
26+ Miles
The Marathon begins in town. With a short bit on the local trails and Highway 38, racers will get on the dirt road climb up the Old Pass Road.
After a descent to the Enchanted Forest XC Ski Area, racers will begin a 7-mile loop on the rolling ski trails.
“After finishing the loop, runners will head back to town to face their biggest challenge. After leaving the ski resort aid station, runners will begin the ascent up The Face, the steep prominent ski slope visible from town. There is no trail and racers will need to make their way up the ¼ mile to where the slope and trail intersect. After running some beautiful trails on the backside of the mountain, racers will descend to town and the awesome finish line.” The start and finish line will be near the Conference Center in the heart of town.
12+ Miles
The start line for the Half Marathon will be at the Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area and the finish line will be in town (approximately 800′ lower than the start). All racers will be transported from town to the start line. Racers will receive customized dog tag finisher’s awards as they cross the finish line. Placer’s awards will be distributed at each race’s awards ceremony.
For more info check out geminiadventures.com/enchantedforest-trail-races.
