Elk Mountain Grand Traverse

Elk Mountain Traverse

Elk Mountain Grand Traverse

March 28, 2021

The Elk Mountain Grand Traverse is an extraordinary 40-mile backcountry ski race between the towns of Crested Butte and Aspen, Colorado. Starting at midnight from Crested Butte — often in sub-zero temperatures — racers traverse Colorado’s spectacular Elk Mountains.

Elk Mtn Grand TraverseElk Mtn Grand Traverse

Course Description

The course is based on the mail routes of the 1880s, connecting the two towns. In this extreme endurance event, racers will climb more than 7,800 vertical feet and navigate in a self-supported backcountry race that tests them physically and mentally. To maintain safety in the backcountry, racers compete in teams of two and are required to carry mandatory gear.

Held annually since 1998, it has earned a reputation as a true test of toughness for elite local, national and international athletes.

Covid-19 Event Protocols


All events and programs will follow company-wide COVID safety protocols and the 5 Commitments to Containment designed by Pitkin County including:

  • All participants and employees are required to wear face masks or appropriate coverings at all times of interaction with others.
  • All participants and staff MUST maintain daily health and self-symptom check.
  • Capacity for each program and event will be limited with pre-registration required where applicable.
  • Programs and events will be canceled based on state and county restrictions.