Purgatory Faux’teener Challenge presented by Pine Needle Mountaineering

Purgatory Faux’teener Challenge presented by Pine Needle Mountaineering

You’ve heard of Everesting, but have you ever done a Faux’Teener? This race will take on over 14,000ft of elevation, consisting of 9 laps up the mountain, and riding the lift down after each climb up. Whew! That’s a leg day.

Welcome to the San Juans

This challenge begins where the rugged beauty of Colorado truly comes alive –  in the San Juan Mountains. Known for their jagged peaks, deep valleys, and remote wilderness, the San Juans are among the most awe-inspiring and unforgiving ranges in the state. Home to iconic 14ers and dramatic alpine terrain, they set the stage for a climbing challenge unlike any other.

This Year’s Featured Peak: Mount Eolus

Each year, the Faux’teener Challenge pays tribute to a different Colorado 14er, starting with peaks from our home range, the San Juans.

For 2026, we honor Mount Eolus, a 14,083-foot peak tucked deep in the Weminuche Wilderness. Known for its exposure, knife-edge ridges, and breathtaking views, Eolus is considered one of Colorado’s more challenging climbs. Named after the Greek god of wind, this summit requires nerve, strength, and resolve – qualities you’ll need to channel on your quest to complete 14,083 vertical feet right here at Purgatory.

You won’t stand on Eolus’ summit, but after nine punishing laps, you’ll feel like you did.

Event Overview

Start/Finish Location: The Beach (Main Base Area Plaza)
Ascent Route: World Cup DH Trail

Descent: Lift 1 ride down after each ascent

• Vertical Gain per Lap: Approximately 1,525 feet
• Total Vertical Gain: 9 full laps (13,725 feet) plus a final 358-foot climb to match the elevation of Mount Eolus – 14,083 feet total
• Total Ascent Distance: Approximately 15.5 miles
• Cutoff Time: 12 hours (6:00 AM to 6:00 PM)
• Estimated Ascent Time per Lap: 60 to 75 minutes at a moderate pace
• Lift Ride Down: Approximately 10 minutes per lap

The final bonus climb ensures your total elevation gain matches the true summit of Mount Eolus – no shortcuts, no rounding down.

Registration

Limited spots available. Early registration is recommended.

Why Take It On?

The Faux’teener is more than an endurance event. It’s a personal summit, a mountain-sized test of determination, and a chance to push yourself in one of Colorado’s most inspiring landscapes.

Whether you’re chasing a time, a goal, or just a good story, this is your opportunity to finish the season with something unforgettable.

This year, you earn Mount Eolus. Next year, a new peak awaits.