STORY BY KAREN BOSSICK

PHOTO BY THOMAS SMILEY

It may just be the most beautiful race course of the year, thanks to the golden aspen lining the way.

The Legends Never Die Half-Marathon and Ultra Marathon will take place Saturday, Oct. 12. The entry fee from the race will go towards the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation, Wood River Trails Coalition, Higher Ground and Soles4Souls.

Runners are encouraged to donate lightly used shoes to a Soles4Souls  collection box that will be set up at the Finish Line

Taylor Sundali won last year’s 34-Mile Ultra Marathon, which tallies more than 7,000 feet of vertical gain reaching a high point of 8,650-fee. The course winds its way from Oregon Gulch over Fox Peak and encompasses Easley Hot Springs.

The 13.1-mile Half Marathon chalks up 2,422 feet of vertical gain over a single-track loop encompassing Oregon Gulch. The high point is 7,600 feet.

The race. in its fourth year, joined the ITUS Idaho Trail Ultra Series this year. Atkinsons Market will stock the aid stations. Sign up at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=113519.

The Ultra Marathon will start at 8 and 8:30 a.m. There’ll be four waves for the Half-Marathon starting at 9, 9:30, 10 and 10:30 a.m.

“It’s going to be beautiful fall colors and weather,” said Thomas Smiley, the race director. “The single track will be exploding with color from fall foliage and the majestic mountain views are sure to take your breath away. It’s perfect for those who like a challenge, running through their own private Idaho with unforgettable views.”

Hiking poles are recommended to navigate the aggressive hill climbs and challenging downhills as the race courses makes its way from forest to exposed alpine environment.

“Remember: No one said it was going to be easy!” said Smiley.