HomeRVWorking a Half-Marathon in Each State

Working a Half-Marathon in Each State


I ran my first half marathon in Could 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 have fun 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 practically 50 half marathons and can verify off my 40th state by the top of the 12 months. I’ve run races in huge 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 way of half marathons has been an unbelievable technique 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 the event you ask me, touring by RV is a unbelievable technique to get to a race. Not solely do you might have lots of the comforts of dwelling, however it’s also possible to take a number of further days to discover the world. Whether or not it’s mountaineering trails, scenic rivers, or close by state and nationwide parks, there’s at all times extra to see. In the event you’re flying in, no worries. You’ll be able to lease 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. Working down Las Vegas Blvd at night time throughout the Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon was a bucket list-worthy second. Additionally, operating by way of Churchill Downs on the Kentucky Derby Competition 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, think about beginning your individual 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. 

Beneath, you’ll discover an incredible 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. 

Huge Seaside Half Marathon | Gulf Shores, AL

January: The scenic Huge Seaside Half Marathon winds by way of Gulf State Park and wows with beautiful ocean views. Not up for 13 miles? No worries. This race weekend additionally includes 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 the USA. 

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 sequence of operating occasions that vary from a children’ 2K to a full marathon. The course winds by way of the guts of downtown Anchorage, then continues on scenic city trails.  

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Arizona

You’ll be captivated by Tucson, Arizona due to year-round sunshine, a wealthy cultural heritage, and placing 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. Received extra within the tank? There’s additionally a marathon and a 50K race. 

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Arkansas

Little Rock, Arkansas is thought 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 record 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 recognized 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

Could: The Santa Barbara Wine Nation Half Marathon is a shocking race that guides runners throughout rolling hills and scenic vineyards earlier than reaching the end line – and a end line wine competition – 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 comfy 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 may be additionally a seven-mile race. 

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Delaware

Stroll the boardwalk and experience 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 due to a flat course, ocean views, and a vigorous after-party with a DJ and limitless meals and comfortable drinks. 

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Florida

February may be hit-or-miss weather-wise in Central Florida, however for a lot of it’s well worth the danger 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 record race that’s a part of the RunDisney sequence. Like Sleeping Magnificence, you’ll need 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 allure, and flavorful meals scene. It’s additionally an incredible leaping off level for the North Georgia mountains. 

Publix Atlanta Half Marathon | Atlanta, GA

March: The Publix Atlanta Half Marathon is among 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 may be 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 among 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 allure, mountaineering 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

Could: 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 may be additionally a marathon, a 10K, and a 5K.

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Illinois

Illinois will be the “Land of Lincoln,” however in Springfield, Illinois, you’re actually within the “Land of Lincoln,” due to 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, vigorous downtown hub, and naturally, the long-lasting Indianapolis Motor Speedway. 

OneAmerica 500 Competition Mini-Marathon | Indianapolis, IN

Could: You don’t need to be a fan of automotive racing to need to add the OneAmerica 500 Competition Mini-Marathon to your bucket record. Often known as “The Mini,” this celebrated race features a lap across the speedway’s well-known oval monitor. 

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Iowa

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

Drake Highway Races Half Marathon | Des Moines, IA

April: The Drake Highway Races Half Marathon is one in every of a number of races that make up the Drake Highway Races, together with a 10K and a 5K. The end line is positioned on the long-lasting 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 critical barbecue scene and a beloved professional soccer crew. It’s additionally bought a mega espresso tradition with among the greatest roasters and low outlets wherever. 

Working with the Cows Half Marathon | Bucyrus, KS 

Could: Lower than one hour south of Kansas Metropolis is Bucyrus, which hosts the annual Working 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 recognized for horse racing. It’s additionally famous for bourbon distilleries and the Louisville Loop, a 100-mile path system. 

Kentucky Derby Competition Mini Marathon | Louisville, KY

April: The Kentucky Derby Competition Mini Marathon includes a scenic course by way of Louisville, however the true spotlight is the stretch by way of historic Churchill Downs. The race takes place the weekend earlier than the Kentucky Derby, so you might even see jockeys on the apply monitor. 

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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 way of downtown Baton Rouge and alongside the Mississippi River. A post-race end competition options reside music and severely scrumptious native delicacies, like jambalaya and shrimp and okra gumbo. 

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Maine

It’s straightforward 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 ingesting 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 due to its historic allure, quaint boutique outlets, and its shut proximity to out of doors recreation, like Catoctin Mountain Park. 

Frederick Half Marathon | Frederick, MD

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

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Massachusetts

Cape Cod’s scenic seashores, charming outlets, 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 great 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 exhausting to beat Traverse Metropolis, Michigan throughout the Nationwide Cherry Competition. It’s a time for parades, cherry-themed treats, a carnival, a golf scramble, and operating races. 

Traverse Metropolis Cherry Competition Half Marathon | Traverse Metropolis, MI

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

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Minnesota

Duluth, Minnesota might be greatest recognized 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 due to gentle temperatures and festive vacation occasions. Discover lovely 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 mountaineering and rest. 

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

October: It’s exhausting 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 beautiful landscapes of Missoula make this Montana vacation spot a gateway for out of doors 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 way of 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 most important 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 out of doors adventures at Crimson 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 at nighttime, amongst the brightly-lit neon indicators of the casinos. 

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New Hampshire

Bristol, New Hampshire is a dream in fall due to beautiful foliage views, significantly alongside the shores of Newfound Lake and on the wooded mountaineering 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 lovely races in New England, happening 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 long-lasting 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 a good way to kick off the operating season, perhaps 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 world wide.  

Nice Balloon Chase Half Marathon | Albuquerque, NM 

October: The Nice Balloon Chase Half Marathon is a should because it takes place throughout 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 Avenue in Corning. The scenic course winds by way of small cities and nation roads. This quick, flat race even boasts a web elevation drop of 40 ft. 

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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 Worry River for paddling and simple mountaineering 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 fashion cinema. 

Fargo Half Marathon | Fargo, ND

Could: The Fargo Half Marathon guides runners alongside tree-lined streets and scenic paths beside the Crimson River, all of the whereas retaining 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 thought for parks, like Smale Riverfront Park, out of doors festivals, and mountaineering and biking trails, just like the 78-mile Little Miami Scenic Path. 

Flying Pig Half Marathon | Cincinnati, OH

Could: The Flying Pig Half Marathon is among the hottest half marathons within the state, if not the USA. 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 way of 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

Residence to the College of Oregon, Eugene is thought for its intensive community of operating trails alongside the Willamette River and its standing as a hub for runners and monitor 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 – generally known as “TrackTown USA.” This race attracts runners from throughout the nation in the beginning of Eugene’s well-known monitor and area season.  

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Pennsylvania

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

Blue-Grey Half Marathon | Gettysburg, PA

April: The Blue-Grey Half Marathon is a part of the Gettysburg Competition 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 beautiful shoreline, affording beautiful water views. The race regularly ranks among the many greatest half marathons within the nation due to 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 thought for tumbling waterfalls, scenic drives, and funky mountain streams. It’s additionally lower than one hour from the long-lasting Devils Tower. 

Spearfish Canyon Half Marathon | Spearfish, SD

July: The Spearfish Canyon Half Marathon includes a breathtaking course that guides runners by way of 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 beautiful fall foliage throughout the Appalachian Mountains. Take pleasure in straightforward 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 Avenue Bridge, and Lookout Mountain. 

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Texas

Austin, Texas is thought for its reside music scene, however it’s additionally value a go to for meals vans, festivals, kayaking on Woman Hen Lake, and every kind 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 recognized for historic allure, pure magnificence, and sure, lined bridges. Throughout Vermont, greater than 100 lined bridges are nonetheless in use at the moment.

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 includes a restored farmhouse and a contemporary dairy.

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Virginia

Virginia Seaside, with its world-famous three-mile boardwalk, lovely 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 long-lasting King Neptune statue.

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Washington

Within the fall, Leavenworth, Washington is a fan favourite for its Bavarian-style village, mountaineering 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 way of Icicle Canyon, then transitions to scenic trails alongside the Icicle River. Publish-race, have fun 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 includes a nationwide historic park, entry to the Appalachian Path, and loads of rafting adventures. 

Harpers Ferry Half | Harpers Ferry, WV

Could: 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 Battle 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, vigorous festivals, and glorious mountaineering 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 website for runners with race opinions. 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 really the gateway to out of doors adventures, like mountaineering, paddling, and wildlife watching throughout the beautiful landscapes.  

Jackson Gap Half Marathon | Jackson, WY

Could: The Jackson Gap Half Marathon includes a beautiful course with wildly picturesque views of the Teton Mountains and the western allure 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 the event you’re a fan of nationwide parks and also you prefer to run, you may need to take a look at the dozen-plus half marathons organized by Trip Races, all set close to beautiful 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 record.

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

All the races are near RV parks and campgrounds, making them excellent for RV journey. Whether or not you’re driving your individual proper or renting one by way of RVshare, it’s a good way to discover the parks earlier than or after your race. 

Making 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 carry to be sure you’re ready and cozy on race day:

Important Gear

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

For the Race

  • Race Bib and Timing Chip
  • Vitality Gels or Chews (to re-fuel throughout 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 technique to expertise the pure magnificence and variety of the nation. I’ve liked each step – pun meant – of my journey. Touring by RV makes it even higher, supplying 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 carry your pet(s) with you.

Whether or not you might have your individual RV or plan to lease 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 individual tempo?