Operating a Half-Marathon in Each State

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Operating a Half-Marathon in Each State


I ran my first half marathon in Might 2013, the Santa Barbara Wine Nation Half Marathon. I had simply began operating that January and needed a purpose to maintain me motivated – and to rejoice my progress. Since I additionally like to journey, it’s secure to say I used to be hooked after this primary race. 

That’s once I set an even bigger problem: to run a half marathon in each state. Now, I’ve run almost 50 half marathons and can examine off my 40th state by the tip of the 12 months. I’ve run races in massive cities, small cities, even alongside nationwide parks. I’ve even doubled up, operating two races in a single weekend in neighboring states, like Ohio and Kentucky. 

Exploring the nation by half marathons has been an unbelievable option to see the U.S. Many of those races are a part of bigger festivals with shorter distance choices, like 5Ks and enjoyable runs, so there’s one thing for all ages and health ranges. 

In case you ask me, touring by RV is a unbelievable option to get to a race. Not solely do you’ve most of the comforts of dwelling, however you can too take a number of further days to discover the world. Whether or not it’s mountain climbing trails, scenic rivers, or close by state and nationwide parks, there’s all the time extra to see. In case you’re flying in, no worries. You possibly can hire an RV at your vacation spot and keep at a campground or RV park near the beginning line. 

I’ve so many unbelievable race recollections, too. Operating down Las Vegas Blvd at night time through the Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon was a bucket list-worthy second. Additionally, operating by Churchill Downs on the Kentucky Derby Pageant Mini Marathon, only a week earlier than the world-famous race, whereas the jockeys warmed up. Unforgettable. 

Whether or not you’re new to operating or a seasoned professional, take into account beginning your personal journey to run a race in each state. After you cross that end line, there’s nothing higher than kicking again at a quiet campsite, RV parked, race medal round your neck. 

Under, you’ll discover a fantastic race in each state, with highlights of what makes the world particular and a few RV rental choices to make your keep even higher. Able to hit the street? Seize your trainers, and let’s go!

Alabama

Prepare for white sand seashores, heat waters, and lovely views throughout the glowing Gulf of Mexico in Gulf Shores, Alabama. 

Large Seaside Half Marathon | Gulf Shores, AL

January: The scenic Large Seaside Half Marathon winds by Gulf State Park and wows with gorgeous ocean views. Not up for 13 miles? No worries. This race weekend additionally contains a 7K run and a one-mile Safari Household Enjoyable Run & Stroll. 

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Alaska

In Anchorage, Alaska, benefit from the excellent mix of city comfort and wild, rugged magnificence, together with Chugach State Park, one of many largest state parks in america. 

Skinny Raven Half Marathon | Anchorage, AK

woman in marathon gear standing in front of colorful flowers
AK-Skinny Raven Half Marathon-Erin Gifford

August: The Skinny Raven Half Marathon is a part of Anchorage RunFest, a collection of operating occasions that vary from a children’ 2K to a full marathon. The course winds by the center of downtown Anchorage, then continues on scenic city trails.  

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Arizona

You’ll be captivated by Tucson, Arizona because of year-round sunshine, a wealthy cultural heritage, and putting desert landscapes, significantly at Saguaro Nationwide Park.  

Holualoa Tucson Half Marathon | Tucson, AZ

December: A largely downhill street race wows with views of the picturesque Santa Catalina Mountains as you run the Holualoa Tucson Half Marathon. Acquired extra within the tank? There’s additionally a marathon and a 50K race. 

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Arkansas

Little Rock, Arkansas is understood for riverfront parks, a wealthy historical past, a vibrant meals scene, and pure magnificence, particularly Pinnacle Mountain State Park.  

Little Rock Half Marathon | Little Rock, AR

March: The Little Rock Half Marathon is a bucket checklist street race, if just for the super-size race medals for finishers. The half marathon is a part of a beloved race weekend that additionally features a marathon, a 10K, and a 5K.

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California

California’s Santa Ynez Valley is a wildly picturesque area identified for charming small cities, like Solvang and Los Olivos, hillside vineyards, and an abundance of wine tasting experiences. 

Santa Barbara Wine Nation Half Marathon | Solvang, CA

Might: The Santa Barbara Wine Nation Half Marathon is a surprising race that guides runners throughout rolling hills and scenic vineyards earlier than reaching the end line – and a end line wine pageant – in Solvang. 

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Colorado

Tucked away within the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs wows with pure magnificence and iconic landmarks, like Pikes Peak and Backyard of the Gods. 

Colorado Springs Half Marathon | Colorado Springs, CO

September: The Colorado Springs Half Marathon begins and ends on the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, meandering alongside Monument Creek for a lot of the race. Publish-race, take the cog railway to the summit of majestic Pikes Peak. 

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Connecticut

In fall, Ridgefield, Connecticut enchants with vibrantly-colored foliage and a comfortable small-town ambiance that’s good for scenic drives and harvest festivals.

Ridgefield Half Marathon | Ridgefield, CT 

October: The Ridgefield Half Marathon is a beginner-friendly half marathon with largely flat miles, but in addition a number of gradual climbs and a downhill end to downtown Ridgefield. There’s additionally a seven-mile race. 

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Delaware

Stroll the boardwalk and enjoy serene coastal views in Rehoboth Seaside, Delaware. In winter, this seaside vacation spot affords a peaceable escape from summer time’s crowds. 

Rehoboth Seaside Seashore Half Marathon | Rehoboth Seaside, DE

December: The Rehoboth Seaside Seashore Half Marathon is a delight for runners because of a flat course, ocean views, and a full of life after-party with a DJ and limitless meals and smooth drinks. 

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Florida

February may be hit-or-miss weather-wise in Central Florida, however for a lot of it’s definitely worth the threat to go to “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” which even has a 750-acre campground.  

Disney Princess Half Marathon | Lake Buena Vista, FL 

February: Walt Disney World Resort – particularly, Magic Kingdom – hosts the Disney Princess Half Marathon, a bucket checklist race that’s a part of the RunDisney collection. Like Sleeping Magnificence, you’ll wish to get your magnificence sleep. This race begins at 5 am. 

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Georgia

There’s so much to like about Atlanta, Georgia, together with its wealthy historical past, Southern attraction, and flavorful meals scene. It’s additionally a fantastic leaping off level for the North Georgia mountains. 

Publix Atlanta Half Marathon | Atlanta, GA

March: The Publix Atlanta Half Marathon is without doubt one of the largest half marathons in Georgia, attracting hundreds of runners who converge on Centennial Park to run Atlanta’s tree-lined and historic streets. There’s additionally a 5K and a marathon. 

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Hawaii

From the Pearl Harbor Historic Websites to the saucer-shaped crater at Diamond Head State Monument, Honolulu, Hawaii has so much to supply guests and runners alike. 

Hapalua Hawaii’s Half Marathon | Honolulu, HI 

April: The Hapalua Hawaii’s Half Marathon guides runners throughout a few of the most iconic areas of Honolulu, together with Waikiki Seaside and Diamond Head. Hawaii’s largest half marathon begins at 6 am, in time for a colourful dawn. 

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Idaho

Boise, Idaho is a win for its city attraction, mountain climbing trails, welcoming ambiance, and mountain magnificence. The Boise Idaho Potato Path showcases the numerous makes use of of potatoes. 

Well-known Idaho Potato Half Marathon | Boise, ID

Might: The Well-known Idaho Potato Half Marathon is a must-run occasion if just for entry to the legendary baked potato bar – with all of the toppings. There’s additionally a marathon, a 10K, and a 5K.

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Illinois

Illinois stands out as the “Land of Lincoln,” however in Springfield, Illinois, you’re actually within the “Land of Lincoln,” because of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Lincoln’s one-time dwelling.

Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon | Springfield, IL

woman in marathon race gear standing in street with other racers behind her
IL-Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon-Erin Gifford

April: The Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon is famed for its finishers medal, which is within the form of an enormous five-inch vast penny, which after all, bears Lincoln’s likeness. This race route goes all in on Lincoln historical past too, even passing Lincoln’s tomb. 

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Indiana

Indianapolis is a must-visit vacation spot for world-class museums, just like the Kids’s Museum of Indianapolis, full of life downtown hub, and naturally, the enduring Indianapolis Motor Speedway. 

OneAmerica 500 Pageant Mini-Marathon | Indianapolis, IN

Might: You don’t must be a fan of automotive racing to wish to add the OneAmerica 500 Pageant Mini-Marathon to your bucket checklist. Often known as “The Mini,” this celebrated race features a lap across the speedway’s well-known oval observe. 

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Iowa

Iowa’s capital metropolis, Des Moines, is a laid-back city with a flourishing artwork scene, stunning parks, and loads of outside recreation alternatives, together with greater than 800 miles of motorcycle trails. 

Drake Street Races Half Marathon | Des Moines, IA

April: The Drake Street Races Half Marathon is one in every of a number of races that make up the Drake Street Races, together with a 10K and a 5K. The end line is situated on the enduring blue oval – which  has hosted Olympians, by the best way – inside Drake Stadium at Drake College. 

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Kansas

Kansas Metropolis has so much occurring, together with a severe barbecue scene and a beloved professional soccer group. It’s additionally received a mega espresso tradition with a few of the greatest roasters and low retailers wherever. 

Operating with the Cows Half Marathon | Bucyrus, KS 

Might: Lower than one hour south of Kansas Metropolis is Bucyrus, which hosts the annual Operating with the Cows Half Marathon. A scenic rural course options rolling countryside, acres of farmland, and loads of cows, together with a unbelievable finishers medal with a cow carrying trainers. 

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Kentucky

As dwelling to Churchill Downs, Louisville, Kentucky is of course greatest identified for horse racing. It’s additionally famous for bourbon distilleries and the Louisville Loop, a 100-mile path system. 

Kentucky Derby Pageant Mini Marathon | Louisville, KY

April: The Kentucky Derby Pageant Mini Marathon contains a scenic course by Louisville, however the actual spotlight is the stretch by historic Churchill Downs. The race takes place the weekend earlier than the Kentucky Derby, so you might even see jockeys on the follow observe. 

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Louisiana

Baton Rouge, Louisiana is a good vacation spot to go to in winter when the local weather is gentle and the humidity is low. Find time for historic websites, festivals, and the Louisiana State Capitol.

Louisiana Half Marathon | Baton Rouge, LA

January: The Louisiana Half Marathon wins over runners with a picturesque course by downtown Baton Rouge and alongside the Mississippi River. A post-race end pageant options reside music and severely scrumptious native delicacies, like jambalaya and shrimp and okra gumbo. 

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Maine

It’s simple to like Portland, Maine, with its lobster rolls, lighthouses, craft breweries, picturesque waterfront, and naturally, the cobblestone streets of the historic Outdated Port district.

Shipyard Outdated Port Half Marathon | Portland, ME

June: The Shipyard Outdated Port Half Marathon is a race to like for the views throughout Casco Bay and the Shipyard Brewing Firm beer readily available for all runners – of consuming age, after all. Not up for a half marathon? There’s additionally a 5K race.

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Maryland

Frederick, Maryland is a good place to go to because of its historic attraction, quaint boutique retailers, and its shut proximity to outside recreation, like Catoctin Mountain Park. 

Frederick Half Marathon | Frederick, MD

Might: The Frederick Half Marathon is one element of the annual Frederick Operating Pageant, which additionally features a two-person relay race, a 5K, and a children’ enjoyable run. The scenic race route winds by historic Frederick and the Frederick Fairgrounds. 

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Massachusetts

Cape Cod’s scenic seashores, charming retailers, and light-weight crowds provide a peaceable escape in early-spring because the solar’s rays start to heat this iconic New England vacation spot.

Hyannis Half Marathon | Hyannis, MA

March: The Hyannis Half Marathon wows runners with a race course that places the scenic fantastic thing about Cape Cod on full show, together with coastal vistas, sandy seashores, and historic neighborhoods. The course even passes the Kennedy Household Compound.

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Michigan

It’s arduous to beat Traverse Metropolis, Michigan through the Nationwide Cherry Pageant. It’s a time for parades, cherry-themed treats, a carnival, a golf scramble, and operating races. 

Traverse Metropolis Cherry Pageant Half Marathon | Traverse Metropolis, MI

July: The Traverse Metropolis Cherry Pageant Half Marathon is one in every of 4 races that make up the Meijer Pageant of Races through the Nationwide Cherry Pageant. The course runs alongside the scenic peninsula, boasting massive views throughout West Grand Traverse Bay. 

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Minnesota

Duluth, Minnesota might be greatest identified for its views throughout Lake Superior. Nonetheless, this Midwest city can also be famend for its scenic trails, vibrant waterfront, and historic Canal Park.

Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon | Duluth, MN

June: The Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon is one in every of a number of races that happen throughout Grandma’s Marathon Weekend, together with a 5K and a marathon. The half marathon, particularly, is extraordinarily common, attracting upwards of 10,000 runners yearly. 

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Mississippi

Coastal Mississippi is a pleasure in winter months because of gentle temperatures and festive vacation occasions. Discover stunning seashores, seasonal celebrations, and a peaceable escape.

Mississippi Gulf Coast Half Marathon | Gulfport, MS 

December: The Mississippi Gulf Coast Half Marathon is a point-to-point race that runs alongside Seaside Blvd from Gulfport to Biloxi with pristine gulf views each step of the best way. The race ends with a End Fest at MGM Park with reside music, native seafood, and scrumptious barbecue. 

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Missouri

St. Louis, Missouri is a must-visit for Gateway Arch, but in addition for the expansive Forest Park, which boasts trails, lakes, and gardens for mountain climbing and rest. 

Nice GO! St. Louis Halloween Race | St. Louis, MO

October: It’s arduous to beat a race that encourages costumes. Like, severely encourages costumes. That’s the Nice GO! St. Louis Halloween Race, and it’s a winner for anybody and everybody who loves Halloween and dressing up in costume. For pets, there’s a one-mile Nice PUPkin Run. 

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Montana

The gorgeous landscapes of Missoula make this Montana vacation spot a gateway for outside adventures, like kayaking and fly fishing on the Clark Fork River. 

Missoula Half Marathon | Missoula, MT

June: The Missoula Half Marathon boasts a quick and flat course that winds by Missoula and the encompassing panorama, that includes views throughout the Clark Fork River. The purpose-to-point race begins in Frenchtown and ends in historic downtown Missoula. 

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Nebraska

Omaha is the biggest metropolis in Nebraska. It’s additionally dwelling to a scenic waterfront, a community of trails and inexperienced areas, and one of many world’s high 5 zoos, Henry Doorly Zoo. 

Nebraska Half | Omaha, NE

April: The Nebraska Half takes runners all throughout downtown Omaha, beginning and ending at Gene Leahy Mall, a beloved city park that boasts lush inexperienced areas, a sculpture backyard, a canine park, and splashy water options. 

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Nevada

Las Vegas, Nevada has one thing for everybody. There are casinos and Michelin star eating places, but in addition outside adventures at Pink Rock Canyon and Valley of Hearth State Park.

Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas | Las Vegas, NV

February: The Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas half marathon is a race that’s oh so bucket list-worthy. This race begins at 4:30 pm and runs up and again down Las Vegas Blvd. The ultimate steps are in the dead of night, amongst the brightly-lit neon indicators of the casinos. 

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New Hampshire

Bristol, New Hampshire is a dream in fall because of gorgeous foliage views, significantly alongside the shores of Newfound Lake and on the wooded mountain climbing trails at Wellington State Park. 

New Hampshire Half Marathon | Bristol, New Hampshire 

October: The New Hampshire Half Marathon is claimed to be among the many most stunning races in New England, going down throughout peak foliage season. There are 4 races, together with a marathon, a half marathon, a 10K, and a one-mile children’ race so everybody can benefit from the fall colours. 

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New Jersey

In spring, get pleasure from a stroll on the enduring boardwalk in Atlantic Metropolis, New Jersey, minus the summer time crowds. Edwin B. Forsythe Nationwide Wildlife Refuge is fantastic for birdwatching.

April Fools Half Marathon | Atlantic Metropolis, NJ

woman in marathon race gear standing in front of a sign
NJ-April Fools Half Marathon-Erin Gifford

April: The April Fools Half Marathon options greater than eight miles of operating on the boardwalk, affording pleasant views throughout the Atlantic Ocean. This quick, flat course is an effective way to kick off the operating season, possibly with a private greatest time. 

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New Mexico

In Albuquerque, New Mexico, get pleasure from hikes within the Sandia Mountains or Rio Grande Valley. The Albuquerque Worldwide Balloon Fiesta in October attracts guests from around the globe.  

Nice Balloon Chase Half Marathon | Albuquerque, NM 

October: The Nice Balloon Chase Half Marathon is a should because it takes place through the world-famous Albuquerque Worldwide Balloon Fiesta. The half marathon begins at 7 am, simply as a whole bunch of sizzling air balloons start to fill the skies. 

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New York

New York’s Finger Lakes area boasts breathtaking views of fall foliage that’s good for scenic drives, hikes, and operating races. Watkins Glen State Park is a stunner with its waterfalls and gorges. 

Wegmans Wineglass Half Marathon | Campbell, NY

October: The Wegmans Wineglass Half Marathon is a point-to-point half marathon that begins in Campbell and finishes on historic Market Road in Corning. The scenic course winds by small cities and nation roads. This quick, flat race even boasts a internet elevation drop of 40 toes. 

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North Carolina

In Wilmington, North Carolina, get pleasure from a historic downtown and scenic riverwalk, then head out to Carolina Seaside State Park alongside the Cape Concern River for paddling and simple mountain climbing trails.  

Novant Well being Wilmington Half Marathon | Wilmington, NC

February: The Novant Well being Wilmington Half Marathon wows runners all alongside a point-to-point route that runs between Wrightsville Seaside and Wilmington. Organizers declare it’s the quickest paced course on the East Coast, which is right for all these PR seekers. 

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North Dakota

Fargo, North Dakota has inexperienced areas, blooming gardens, and nature reserves, in addition to artwork museums and the historic Fargo Theatre, an artwork deco model cinema. 

Fargo Half Marathon | Fargo, ND

Might: The Fargo Half Marathon guides runners alongside tree-lined streets and scenic paths beside the Pink River, all of the whereas preserving runners motivated with reside music. The half marathon is a part of one of many state’s largest operating occasions, which additionally features a marathon, a 10K, and a 5K. 

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Ohio

Cincinnati, Ohio is understood for parks, like Smale Riverfront Park, outside festivals, and mountain climbing and biking trails, just like the 78-mile Little Miami Scenic Path. 

Flying Pig Half Marathon | Cincinnati, OH

Might: The Flying Pig Half Marathon is without doubt one of the hottest half marathons within the state, if not america. The course guides runners throughout downtown streets, then over and again throughout the Ohio River. A number of eating places alongside the race route host viewing events. 

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Oklahoma

In Oklahoma Metropolis, spring means paddling, even river rafting, on the Oklahoma River within the Boathouse District and reveling within the blooming flowers on the 15-acre Myriad Botanical Gardens. 

Oklahoma Metropolis Memorial Half Marathon | Oklahoma Metropolis, OK

April: The Oklahoma Metropolis Memorial Half Marathon route winds by downtown, previous the State Capitol, and previous landmarks, just like the Oklahoma Metropolis Nationwide Memorial & Museum. Alongside the route, search for 168 banners, one for every of these killed within the Oklahoma Metropolis bombing in 1995.

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Oregon

House to the College of Oregon, Eugene is understood for its intensive community of operating trails alongside the Willamette River and its standing as a hub for runners and observe athletes. 

Eugene Half Marathon | Eugene, OR

April: The Eugene Half Marathon is a favourite amongst runners for its flat and quick course. This race celebrates the wealthy historical past of Eugene – often known as “TrackTown USA.” This race attracts runners from throughout the nation at the beginning of Eugene’s well-known observe and discipline season.  

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Pennsylvania

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania is a well-liked vacation spot amongst Civil Warfare historical past buffs, famend for Gettysburg Nationwide Army Park, which preserves the historic battlefields. 

Blue-Grey Half Marathon | Gettysburg, PA

April: The Blue-Grey Half Marathon is a part of the Gettysburg Pageant of Races, which additionally features a marathon and a 5K. The half marathon runs simply exterior the battlefields of Gettysburg, that are among the many most vital websites in U.S. historical past. 

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Rhode Island

Newport, Rhode Island affords a picturesque backdrop of vibrant foliage in fall for guests desirous to discover the coastal cliffs and Gilded Age mansions, significantly the famed Cliff Stroll. 

Amica Newport Half Marathon | Newport, RI

October: The Amica Newport Half Marathon is a scenic race that leads runners alongside the gorgeous shoreline, affording beautiful water views. The race often ranks among the many greatest half marathons within the nation because of its rocky seashores and ocean panoramas. 

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South Carolina

South Carolina’s Myrtle Seaside is a winner for expansive sandy seashores and inexperienced areas, like Myrtle Seaside State Park, which has a 302-site campground. 

Myrtle Seaside Mini Marathon | Myrtle Seaside, SC

October: The Myrtle Seaside Mini Marathon is a favourite race for its coastal surroundings and flat course, providing runners an opportunity to savor the ocean views and a few of nation’s most visited seashores. Greater than 5 miles of the course parallels the shoreline alongside Ocean Blvd. 

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South Dakota

Spearfish, South Dakota is understood for tumbling waterfalls, scenic drives, and funky mountain streams. It’s additionally lower than one hour from the enduring Devils Tower. 

Spearfish Canyon Half Marathon | Spearfish, SD

July: The Spearfish Canyon Half Marathon contains a breathtaking course that guides runners by scenic Spearfish Canyon. As a bonus, the race begins and ends at Spearfish Metropolis Park, which has a campground with RV websites and full hook-ups. 

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Tennessee

Within the fall, Chattanooga, Tennessee boasts gorgeous fall foliage throughout the Appalachian Mountains. Get pleasure from simple trails at Lookout Mountain, in addition to Ruby Falls and Rock Metropolis. 

7 Bridges Half Marathon | Chattanooga, TN

October: The 7 Bridges Half Marathon is a part of Chattanooga’s largest and most beloved race weekend, which additionally features a marathon, a 10K, a 5K, and a 1K household enjoyable run. The race wows with views of the Tennessee River, Walnut Road Bridge, and Lookout Mountain. 

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Texas

Austin, Texas is understood for its reside music scene, however it’s additionally value a go to for meals vans, festivals, kayaking on Girl Chook Lake, and all types of flavorful Tex-Mex meals. 

Ascension Seton Austin Half Marathon | Austin, TX

February: The Ascension Seton Austin Half Marathon is a favourite amongst runners desirous to see town since this course consists of historic neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and a end line in entrance of the Texas State Capitol. 

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Utah

St. George, Utah is a must-visit for its crimson sandstone cliffs and desert landscapes. It’s additionally a unbelievable base for exploring Zion Nationwide Park and Sand Hole State Park. 

St. George Half Marathon | St. George, UT

October: The St. George Half Marathon is widely known for a wildly picturesque course with views of crimson rock landscapes. As a bonus, St. George is a stone’s throw from attractive state parks in each Utah and Nevada, together with Valley of Hearth State Park. 

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Vermont

Woodstock, Vermont is a traditional New England city identified for historic attraction, pure magnificence, and sure, lined bridges. Throughout Vermont, greater than 100 lined bridges are nonetheless in use immediately.

Coated Bridges Half Marathon | Woodstock, VT

June: The Coated Bridges Half Marathon takes runners alongside rural farmland and over a number of historic lined bridges. Publish-race, discover native landmarks, just like the Billings Farm & Museum, which contains a restored farmhouse and a contemporary dairy.

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Virginia

Virginia Seaside, with its world-famous three-mile boardwalk, stunning seashores, and vibrant murals within the ViBE Artistic District, is a winner at any time of 12 months. 

Anthem Shamrock Half Marathon | Virginia Seaside, VA

March: The Anthem Shamrock Half Marathon is one in every of a number of races held throughout Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend. The course guides runners north alongside Atlantic Avenue, previous the lighthouses at Fort Story, then finishes in entrance of the enduring King Neptune statue.

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Washington

Within the fall, Leavenworth, Washington is a fan favourite for its Bavarian-style village, mountain climbing within the Cascade Mountains, and naturally, the annual Oktoberfest festivities. 

Leavenworth Half Marathon | Leavenworth, WA

October: The Leavenworth Half Marathon delights runners with a course that runs by Icicle Canyon, then transitions to scenic trails alongside the Icicle River. Publish-race, rejoice Oktoberfest with brats, brews, and schnitzels.  

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West Virginia

On the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia contains a nationwide historic park, entry to the Appalachian Path, and loads of rafting adventures. 

Harpers Ferry Half | Harpers Ferry, WV

Might: The Harpers Ferry Half has a hilly course, however that solely makes the end that a lot sweeter when the race ends subsequent to the Harpers Ferry / Civil Water Battlefields KOA. A mix of Civil Warfare historical past and pure magnificence make this a memorable race. 

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Wisconsin

Eau Claire is a small faculty city in Wisconsin with quaint cafés, full of life festivals, and wonderful mountain climbing and biking trails, just like the 30-mile Chippewa River State Path. 

Eau Claire Half Marathon | Eau Claire, WI

April: The Eau Claire Half Marathon is taken into account a favourite race, even voted into the highest 5 within the U.S. by BibRave, a web site for runners with race critiques. The scenic course passes the College of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, the Chippewa River, and Dells Pond. 

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Wyoming

Minutes from Grand Teton Nationwide Park, Jackson, Wyoming is actually the gateway to outside adventures, like mountain climbing, paddling, and wildlife watching throughout the gorgeous landscapes.  

Jackson Gap Half Marathon | Jackson, WY

Might: The Jackson Gap Half Marathon contains a gorgeous course with wildly picturesque views of the Teton Mountains and the western attraction of downtown Jackson. The race ends in-town at Phil Baux Park. 

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Nationwide Park Half Marathons

woman standing in front of a sign that says 'zion half marathon'
Trip Races-Zion Half Marathon-Erin Gifford

In case you’re a fan of nationwide parks and also you wish to run, you may wish to try the dozen-plus half marathons organized by Trip Races, all set close to gorgeous nationwide parks. I’ve had the possibility to run three of those races – the Zion Half Marathon, Rocky Mountain Half Marathon, and Saguaro Half Marathon – and I’m already planning my subsequent one. The Grand Teton Half Marathon is excessive on my checklist.

The races are tremendous well-organized, and the medals are top-notch. What’s even higher is their dedication to being zero waste. As a substitute of single-use water bottles or paper cups, every runner is given a foldable, reusable cup that you could loop round your finger whereas operating. It’s a small however impactful option to preserve the programs clear and inexperienced. 

The entire races are near RV parks and campgrounds, making them excellent for RV journey. Whether or not you’re driving your personal proper or renting one by RVshare, it’s an effective way to discover the parks earlier than or after your race. 

Getting ready and Packing for Your Half Marathon

Packing for a half marathon includes extra than simply throwing your operating gear right into a bag. Right here’s what to convey to ensure you’re ready and comfy on race day:

Important Gear

  • Operating Sneakers
  • Moisture-Wicking Operating Garments
  • Operating Socks
  • Operating Belt (for carrying your telephone or automotive keys)

For the Race

  • Race Bib and Timing Chip
  • Power Gels or Chews (to re-fuel through the race)
  • Sunscreen
  • ID and Race Registration Affirmation

Publish-Race Necessities

  • Restoration Snacks (excessive in protein and carbs, like protein bars or fruit)
  • Foam Curler (for post-race muscle aid)

Getting down to run a half marathon in each state is an thrilling option to expertise the pure magnificence and variety of the nation. I’ve liked each step – pun supposed – of my journey. Touring by RV makes it even higher, providing you with flexibility, private comforts, quick access to nature, even comfort for pet homeowners since RVs are typically pet-friendly. So it’s a cinch to convey your pet(s) with you.

Whether or not you’ve your personal RV or plan to hire one alongside the best way, this enjoyable mixture of operating and RV journey turns each race into an unforgettable journey. Who knew it was really easy to mix health, enjoyable, and the liberty to find new locations at your personal tempo?