World Championship Pack Burro Race
About the Event
The first year of the World Championship Pack Burro Race in 1949 saw 21 entrants with only 8 finishing the race. These days there are nearly 100 racers and burros that take on this historic challenge. Some choose the “lower altitude” short course of approximately 12.3 miles while others take on the long course and attempt the grueling climb to the top of Mosquito Pass and back, 29+ miles and an elevation change of 3,232'! The racers start at 9,953 feet in Fairplay with long course runners hitting their halfway point at the top of Mosquito Pass, elevation 13,185'!
Short Course Map
Long Course Map
***Disclaimer: Staff are currently discussing a time limit for each course. Racers will have until a certain time to reach a specified checkpoint. If they reach the checkpoint after the required time, they will be directed to turn around and will receive a DNF.
Free race photos provided by Pack Burro Racing Photographers at PBRphotos.org
Ready to test your limits? The World Championship Pack Burro Race brings a highly anticipated 49.9K, 24.1K to Fairplay on July 26, 2026. Expect a fantastic route right in the heart of Colorado.
Races Offered
Trail running
Long Course, 29+ miles
Each runner must be accompanied by a Burro! It is the responsibility of the runner to acquire their own burro. They may use their own animal or borrow/rent someone else's. Each burro will be required to be equipped with a regulation pack saddle, packed with a pick, shovel, and gold pan. It is strongly recommended that all participants carry at least one - two quarts of water, food, and clothing for all types of weather. Loss of all or part of the pack and paraphernalia will eliminate the contestant. See more detailed equipment information on our website. ***Disclaimer 3/21/25: Jack chains are no longer prohibited. Jack chains may be used only if used with a pressure-release technique. (A jack chain is a chain or strap which is used to apply pressure over the muzzle, under the chin, or through the mouth).
Running
Short Course, approximately 12.3 miles
Each runner must be accompanied by a Burro! It is the responsibility of the runner to acquire their own burro. They may use their own animal or borrow/rent someone else's. Each burro will be required to be equipped with a regulation pack saddle, packed with a pick, shovel, and gold pan. It is strongly recommended that all participants carry at least one - two quarts of water, food, and clothing for all types of weather. Loss of all or part of the pack and paraphernalia will eliminate the contestant. See more detailed equipment information on our website. ***Disclaimer 3/21/25: Jack chains are no longer prohibited. Jack chains may be used only if used with a pressure-release technique. (A jack chain is a chain or strap which is used to apply pressure over the muzzle, under the chin, or through the mouth). ***The Short Course route has been updated. While the new course is shorter (12.3 miles approx.) than the traditional course (15 miles), racers will find a more challenging experience with several steep ascents and descents after diverging from the original outbound path. Racers will navigate wooded dirt roads, giving access to beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and will be greeted by a tranquil high alpine pond as they pass the halfway point. Upon completing the loop, burro teams will finish the race along the traditional inbound trail.
About Fairplay
World Championship Pack Burro Race takes place in Fairplay, Colorado, United States. The local timezone is America/Denver.
Runner Reviews
Based on 0 reviews
Share your thoughts
If you've participated in this event, share your experience with other runners
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!
Race information has been sourced from the event's official website and other publicly available resources. For the most up-to-date details, please refer to the official website directly. If you notice any incorrect or missing information, don't hesitate to reach out to us by email.
