Taos Trackers: Altitude Air Stealing Summer Miles?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

April 2, 2026

Forget those generic training plans you find online. You know, the ones that tell you to “listen to your body” while simultaneously pushing you to your breaking point? They’re useless, especially when you’re tackling a beast like the Taos Mesa Brewing Mothership race. This isn’t just another trail run; it’s a high-altitude, lung-busting, ankle-twisting adventure in the New Mexico desert. And if you’re coming from Colorado, you’ve got a head start, but you still need a specific plan.

Here’s your no-nonsense guide to conquering the Mothership, tailored for Colorado runners.

First, let’s talk altitude. Denver sits at 5,280 feet, and Colorado Springs isn’t far behind. Taos, however, hovers around 7,000 feet, and the race course will likely take you higher. That extra 2,000 feet (or more) can be brutal.

Acclimatization isn’t about just showing up a day before the race. You need a strategic approach.

• Pre-Acclimatization in Colorado: Don’t just run your usual routes. Seek out higher elevations within Colorado.

  • Example: If you’re in Denver, drive up to Evergreen (around 7,200 feet) for a weekend run. If you’re in Colorado Springs, head up Pikes Peak Highway (even just driving partway up and hiking can help).
  • Why? Repeated exposure to higher altitudes triggers physiological adaptations like increased red blood cell production.
  • Challenge: Finding the time. Make it a weekend adventure. Pack a picnic, explore a new trail, and make the altitude training a fun part of your preparation.

• Arrival in Taos: Arrive at least 3-4 days before the race. This allows your body to adjust to the final altitude difference.

  • Pitfall: Overdoing it on arrival. Resist the urge to immediately hit the trails hard.
  • Solution: Gentle activity. Light hiking, walking around town, and easy runs are your friends.

• Hydration is Key: Altitude increases fluid loss. You’re already at a disadvantage in the dry New Mexico air.

  • Actionable Insight: Start pre-hydrating days before you leave Colorado. Aim for at least a gallon of water per day. Add electrolytes.
  • Electrolyte Optimization: Don’t just chug sports drinks. They’re often loaded with sugar.
    • Recommendation: Use electrolyte tablets or powders with a balanced blend of sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Nuun and LMNT are good options. Experiment during your training runs to find what works best for you.
    • Specific to Taos: The dry air will suck the moisture right out of you. Consider carrying extra electrolyte tablets on race day.

Next, nutrition. High-altitude running demands a different fuel strategy.

• Carbohydrate Loading: This isn’t just for marathoners. Your body burns carbs more efficiently at altitude.
  • How-To: Increase your carbohydrate intake in the days leading up to the race. Focus on complex carbohydrates like sweet potatoes, quinoa, and brown rice.
  • Mistake: Overdoing the simple sugars. Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks.
• Iron Intake: Altitude stimulates red blood cell production, which requires iron.
  • Recommendation: Consider an iron supplement, especially if you’re a female runner. Consult with your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen.
  • Food Sources: Include iron-rich foods in your diet, such as spinach, lentils, and red meat.
• Race Day Fueling: Practice your fueling strategy during your training runs.
  • Gel Considerations: Some gels can cause stomach upset at altitude. Test different brands and flavors to find what works for you.
  • Real Food Options: Consider carrying some real food options like dried fruit, nuts, or energy bars.

Now, let’s address the terrain. The trails around Taos are rocky, uneven, and unforgiving. Ankle injuries are common.

• Ankle Strengthening Exercises: Incorporate these into your routine now.
  • Single-Leg Balance: Stand on one leg for 30 seconds, then switch. Progress to balancing on an unstable surface like a pillow or balance board.
  • Calf Raises: Perform calf raises on a step, focusing on controlled movements.
  • Toe Raises: Lift your toes off the ground while keeping your heels planted.
  • Inversion/Eversion Exercises: Use a resistance band to strengthen the muscles that support your ankle.
• Trail-Specific Training: Don’t just run on roads. Find trails in Colorado that mimic the terrain around Taos.
  • Example: If you’re in Denver, head to the foothills west of the city. Look for trails with rocks, roots, and uneven surfaces.
  • Colorado Springs Option: Explore the trails in Garden of the Gods or Red Rock Canyon Open Space.
• Footwear: Choose trail shoes with good ankle support and aggressive tread.
  • Recommendation: Visit a specialty running store and get fitted for shoes that are appropriate for the terrain.
  • Break Them In: Don’t wear brand new shoes on race day. Break them in during your training runs.
• Downhill Running Technique: Practice running downhill efficiently and safely.
  • Key: Short, quick steps. Lean slightly forward. Use your arms for balance.
  • Pitfall: Overstriding. This puts excessive stress on your knees and ankles.

Finally, pacing. Your usual paces will feel significantly harder at altitude.

• Adjusted Training Paces: Use a heart rate monitor or perceived exertion to gauge your effort.
  • Rule of Thumb: Expect to run 30-60 seconds per mile slower than your sea-level pace.
  • Listen to Your Body: Don’t try to force your pace. Focus on maintaining a comfortable effort level.
• Race Day Strategy: Start conservatively. The altitude will hit you harder later in the race.
  • Walk the Hills: Don’t be afraid to walk the steeper hills. It’s more efficient than trying to run them at a pace you can’t sustain.
• Mental Toughness: High-altitude running is as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one.
  • Prepare Yourself: Visualize success. Focus on the positive aspects of the race. Break the race down into smaller, more manageable segments.

The Taos Mesa Brewing Mothership race is a challenge, but with the right preparation, you can conquer it. Focus on altitude acclimatization, nutritional adjustments, and injury prevention. Tailor your training to the specific demands of the race and the unique environment of Northern New Mexico. And remember, listen to your body, stay hydrated, and enjoy the stunning scenery. Good luck!