LUNA is an equity-driven event that introduces Colorado’s beauty and recreation to new audiences through races and challenges. Designed to enhance physical and mental health, LUNA promotes human-to-nature connections and self-realiztion through running and hiking for communities historically excluded from outdoor recreation.
Proclamation by Governor of Colorado Jared Polis establishing our Latino Ultra Nature Adventure Day (LUNA) in honor of its mission to advance human-nature connections and self-realization through running and hiking for communities historically excluded from outdoors sports and recreation.
LUNA reframes the Ultra athletics experience to inspire newcomers to the sport and invites established athletes to join a more inclusive and culturally-driven ultra challenge.
This unique event offers distances of 5km, 10km, a Half Marathon (13.1 miles), and 55km (34 miles), taking participants through the beautiful ecological areas in the mountains. As participants run or hike, they’ll explore the intersection between urban development and population growth, the impact of climate change on forests, and the importance of Colorado’s water resources.
Empowering Through Inclusivity
LUNA is dedicated to bridging the inclusion gaps in outdoor recreation and sports. With this in mind, we require a minimal sign-up fee, while youth 18 and under can participate for free (with adult registration). We encourage all participants to make a tax-deductible donation to support the inclusive mandate of our program and the efforts of our staff and volunteers.
Join Us for the Next LUNA Event
Our next LUNA event will feature an exciting agenda filled with opportunities to connect with nature and community. Stay tuned for updates on the upcoming schedule, including key activities, presentations, and immersive experiences designed to inspire and engage all participants.
Distance: 5K (3.1 Miles)
Estimated time for completion: 30-60 min
Elevation Gain: XXX Feet
Distance: 12K (7.5 Miles)
Estimated time for completion: 00-00 min
Elevation Gain: XXX Feet
Distance: 22.5K (14 Miles)
Estimated time for completion: 00-00 min
Elevation Gain: XXX Feet
Distance: 50K (31M)
Estimated time for completion: 00-00 min
Elevation Gain: XXX Feet
BIPOC communities face safety concerns and exclusion in outdoor sports, with only 46% feeling safe at trail races compared to 80% of white runners.
Forest bathing and exposure to nature significantly reduce stress, boost immunity, and enhance emotional health, offering long-lasting benefits
The running industry remains predominantly white, with only 1% of senior management being Black, highlighting the need for greater diversity.
Current running gear fails to meet the needs of many BIPOC runners, with 16% dissatisfied with footwear and 23% with apparel, signaling a demand for better products.
BIPOC runners, who make up 34% of the running community, hold a combined annual spending power of $28.7 billion on running gear and races.
With 75% of the world’s population living in cities and 93% of urban dwellers spending their time indoors, reconnecting with nature is essential for well-being.
Volunteering with ALEF offers a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful environmental and cultural initiatives. Whether it’s helping at our vibrant events, assisting with community tree plantings, or supporting our educational workshops, your involvement will make a tangible impact. Your efforts will not only benefit the community but also provide you with enriching experiences and lasting connections.
Your contributions fuel our mission to bridge environmental and cultural gaps, advancing equity and sustainability. With your support, including your generous donations, we can expand our innovative programs, engage underserved communities, and drive impactful change.
