The Eltuck Valley 12K is the longest event in the Lory Summer Trail Series, a sequence of four short trail races held on consecutive Wednesday evenings in August at Lory State Park in Bellvue, Colorado. All races begin at 6:00 PM from the Eltuck Picnic Area, with distances ranging from 5K to 12K. The series is intentionally low-key, offering new trail runners a chance to try dirt racing without the commitment of an ultra-style day, while providing experienced runners with shorter, faster efforts that include chip timing and series points.
The four-race schedule progresses from a 5K with 250 feet of climbing to more challenging terrain, featuring a 5K with 700 feet of gain and a 10K with 1,700 feet. It concludes with the Flat and Fast Eltuck Valley 12K, which includes 500 feet of elevation gain along the Valley Trail. Series finishers are eligible for distinctive awards, and registration comes with a choice of vintage Gnar race shirts, subject to availability. Following each race, participants receive pizza, provided by the Fort Collins Running Club, and beverages from New Belgium Brewing, contributing to the series' relaxed weeknight atmosphere instead of a large-scale event production.