Frequently Asked Questions

Please see below for Steamboat Marathon frequently asked questions. If you have addditonal questions please email marathon@steamboatchamber.com.

Q: WILL THE RACE HAPPEN?

A. The world around us is changing daily, but we are committed to hosting the 2021 Steamboat Marathon. We are also committed the health and safety of our running community. We are optimistic that we will be able to host a safe in-person event for our runners, staff, and volunteers.

Q: WHAT HEALTH & SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WILL BE TAKEN TO PROTECT PARTICIPANTS AND VOLUNTEERS?

A: We are working with our partners, including Routt County Public Health, the City of Steamboat Springs, UCHealth, and the state of Colorado, to identify and implement all appropriate safety precautions. We’ll employ new safety protocols during each step of the process including increased sanitation, social distancing and modifications to packet pick up and aid stations. An in-person race will look differently in 2021, and we’ll continue to communicate updates to our runners.

Q: WHAT HAPPENS IF THE IN-PERSON RACE DOES NOT TAKE PLACE?

A: If current conditions and regulations prevent an in-person race from taking place, all registered participants will automatically be transferred to the 2021 Virtual Steamboat Marathon event.

Q: How will you keep runners informed? 

A: Make sure you are signed up for Steamboat Marathon emails, plus follow us on Instagram for updates. 

Q: When will registration open?

A: We anticipate opening registration during the first week of January 2021. If you signed up for the 2020 race, you should have received information on deferring to 2021. For questions on your 2020 deferral, email marathon@steamboatchamber.com.

Q: How do I get to Steamboat by air?

A: Yampa Valley Regional Airport is 30 minutes from Steamboat Springs. You can fly into YVRA from Denver with connections across the country and around the world. You can also fly direct into Denver International Airport and rent a car or hire a shuttle service to Steamboat Springs.

Q: What do I need to do on race day?

A: Our course is a country road that is open to traffic. We place aid stations where we safely can, but you may find that you need water between stations. We strongly encourage runners to carry water.

Q: Can I bring my baby stroller or dog to any of the race courses?

A: No. Due to other runners and the county roads being open to local traffic.

Q: Is it okay for my friend, parent or spouse to ride their bike along side me while I run?

A: We strongly advise against it. The roads are technically open to traffic, but we prefer there to be no bikes on the course. For safety considerations we ask that everyone leave their bikes at home.

Q: Where’s the best place for my family and friends to watch me run?

A: For the best view of the Marathon, Half or 10K races, Lincoln Avenue in downtown Steamboat Springs is the best bet. This stretch serves as the finish for all three races, and your friends and family will be close enough to cheer for you and then cheers to you at the finish festival at Fifth Street and Lincoln Avenue.

Q: Is the Steamboat Marathon a Boston Marathon qualifying race?

A: Yes, because our course is USATF (USA Track and Field) certified, our race is a Boston qualifier.

Q: IS MY REGISTRATION FEE REFUNDABLE?

A: No, entry fees are not refundable. As a not-for-profit organization, we make every effort to work with local partners, vendors, and staff to produce the best race possible. We have a no-refund policy to preserve our ability to pay and support these organizations and people for the year-round work that goes into planning and producing the race. 

Q: If I find that I can’t run for whatever reason, may I transfer my bib number to my friend?

A: Yes. You are able to transfer your registration via Events.com. Click here to download instructions. There will be a $10 transfer fee.

Q: Can I transfer between races?

A: You are welcome to transfer races if space is available. Please complete this form and send to marathon@steamboatchamber.com. There will be a $10 transfer fee (plus the difference between races if transferring up) for changing races. Please note that we will not refund the difference in price if you choose to move down.

Q: I just found out I’m pregnant/injured and can’t run, what can I do?

A: If you are injured and unable to run you may defer your race registration. There will be a $10 deferral fee until May 1. After May 1 the fee is $20. You can defer from the race by selecting "Deferral to 2021" on the registration site. After June 4, no deferrals will be accepted.

It is the runner’s responsibility to re-register. We will not automatically register you for the next year’s race. You will be contacted via email with a code to register when the 2021 race registration opens. 

Q: What if I can’t make it to packet pick-up?

A: A friend or relative can pick up your packet, but they must have your e-mail confirmation. There will be no race day packet pick-up. No Exceptions.