The International Taco Bell 50K returns Saturday, October 3, sending runners through the Denver area on a course connecting 10 Taco Bell locations. Eating is part of the challenge, and skipping the food won’t get you to the finish.
This year’s ninth edition, dubbed “The Loco Strikes Back,” starts at 7:30 a.m. at 447 S. Broadway.
The Food Stops Are Mandatory
Participants must visit all 10 locations and eat a menu item at at least nine. There are also specific requirements along the way:
- By stop four, eat a Chalupa Supreme or Crunchwrap Supreme.
- By stop eight, eat a Burrito Supreme or Nachos BellGrande.
- Finish in under 11 hours.
- Keep receipts and wrappers as proof.
- Drinks don’t count toward the food requirement.
- The rules prohibit on-course Pepto, Alka-Seltzer, Pepcid A/C and Mylanta.
Organizers allow reasonable accommodations for dietary restrictions. There’s also an explicitly permitted off-course bathroom break at Wash Park. That feels like an important detail.
Hundreds Have Taken On the Challenge
Founded by Jason Romero and Dan Zolnikov, the event has grown into a Denver running tradition with a very specific appetite.
Rocky Mountain PBS reported that more than 700 runners participated in the 2025 edition. Finishers received medals made from Taco Bell sauce packets taped to ribbons, assembled by Romero’s mother.
Thirty-one miles for a sauce packet medal. You have to respect the commitment.
There’s a Local Cause Behind It
The event names Achilles International’s Denver chapter as its charity partner. Organizers say donations help athletes with disabilities cover race entry fees, running shoes and other running equipment.
The race is independently organized and is not sponsored or endorsed by Taco Bell.
Find the course, participation information, volunteer opportunities and complete rules at TacoBell50K.com. Whether you’re running or watching, Denver’s Saturday plans just got a little stranger.
