Every autumn in the scenic town of Grand Lake, volunteers, cancer survivors and community members gather for a 5K walk/run.

The event brings in funds for the volunteer group Taking Steps For Cancer. Each year, Taking Steps raises over $225,000 to support community members who are battling cancer. This year, the event is Sunday, Oct. 5.

The event is held in fall, so participants can enjoy the vibrant changing colors of aspen trees as they race, or walk, around the picturesque town. The event also includes Grand County’s largest live and silent auctions.

The fundraiser begins at the historic Daven Haven Lodge with live music and a testimony from a cancer survivor who’s benefitted from the fund. The race starts right after this at 10 a.m.. The silent auction takes place throughout the event.

Attendees can then enjoy lunch and the live auction at Daven Haven’s Backstreet Steakhouse, provided by Carey Barnes. This year’s auction includes a unique find — one lucky bidder will receive a 1963 Land Rover. Online bidding closes on Oct. 4 at the link TakingStepsForCancer.org/1963-Land-Rover, or bid live at the event.

A record number of 335 people participated in the Taking Steps 5K in 2024. That year, Taking Steps for Cancer assisted 53 Grand County residents with costs related to cancer treatment and screening. Funds raised by the community were provided for expenses such as mileage, lodging, meals and other costs not covered by insurance.

Learn more about the 5K and auction or register online at TakingStepsForCancer.org/5k-And-Auction. The Taking Steps cancer fund is operated by the nonprofit Mountain Family Center.