Running a Half Marathon in Every State and Why an RV is the Best Way to Get You There

Top Destinations

I ran my first half marathon in May 2013, the Santa Barbara Wine Country Half Marathon. I had just started running that January and wanted a goal to keep me motivated – and to celebrate my progress. Since I also love to travel, it’s safe to say I was hooked after this first race. 

That’s when I set a bigger challenge: to run a half marathon in every state. Now, I’ve run nearly 50 half marathons and will check off my 40th state by the end of the year. I’ve run races in big cities, small towns, even alongside national parks. I’ve even doubled up, running two races in one weekend in neighboring states, like Ohio and Kentucky. 

Exploring the country through half marathons has been an incredible way to see the U.S. Many of these races are part of larger festivals with shorter distance options, like 5Ks and fun runs, so there’s something for all ages and fitness levels. 

If you ask me, traveling by RV is a fantastic way to get to a race. Not only do you have many of the comforts of home, but you can also take a few extra days to explore the area. Whether it’s hiking trails, scenic rivers, or nearby state and national parks, there’s always more to see. If you’re flying in, no worries. You can rent an RV at your destination and stay at a campground or RV park close to the starting line. 

I have so many incredible race memories, too. Running down Las Vegas Blvd at night during the Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon was a bucket list-worthy moment. Also, running through Churchill Downs at the Kentucky Derby Festival Mini Marathon, just a week before the world-famous race, while the jockeys warmed up. Unforgettable. 

Whether you’re new to running or a seasoned pro, consider starting your own journey to run a race in every state. After you cross that finish line, there’s nothing better than kicking back at a quiet campsite, RV parked, race medal around your neck. 

Below, you’ll find a great race in every state, with highlights of what makes the area special and some RV rental options to make your stay even better. Ready to hit the road? Grab your running shoes, and let’s go!

Alabama

Get ready for white sand beaches, warm waters, and gorgeous views across the sparkling Gulf of Mexico in Gulf Shores, Alabama. 

Big Beach Half Marathon | Gulf Shores, AL

January: The scenic Big Beach Half Marathon winds through Gulf State Park and wows with stunning ocean views. Not up for 13 miles? No worries. This race weekend also features a 7K run and a one-mile Safari Family Fun Run & Walk. 

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Alaska

In Anchorage, Alaska, enjoy the perfect blend of urban convenience and wild, rugged beauty, including Chugach State Park, one of the largest state parks in the United States. 

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 part of Anchorage RunFest, a series of running events that range from a kids’ 2K to a full marathon. The course winds through the heart of downtown Anchorage, then continues on scenic urban trails.  

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Arizona

You’ll be captivated by Tucson, Arizona thanks to year-round sunshine, a rich cultural heritage, and striking desert landscapes, particularly at Saguaro National Park.  

Holualoa Tucson Half Marathon | Tucson, AZ

December: A mostly downhill road race wows with views of the picturesque Santa Catalina Mountains as you run the Holualoa Tucson Half Marathon. Got more in the tank? There’s also a marathon and a 50K race. 

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Arkansas

Little Rock, Arkansas is known for riverfront parks, a rich history, a vibrant food scene, and natural beauty, especially Pinnacle Mountain State Park.  

Little Rock Half Marathon | Little Rock, AR

March: The Little Rock Half Marathon is a bucket list road race, if only for the super-size race medals for finishers. The half marathon is part of a beloved race weekend that also includes a marathon, a 10K, and a 5K.

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California

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

Santa Barbara Wine Country Half Marathon | Solvang, CA

May: The Santa Barbara Wine Country Half Marathon is a stunning race that guides runners across rolling hills and scenic vineyards before reaching the finish line – and a finish line wine festival – in Solvang. 

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Colorado

Tucked away in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs wows with natural beauty and iconic landmarks, like Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods. 

Colorado Springs Half Marathon | Colorado Springs, CO

September: The Colorado Springs Half Marathon begins and ends at the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, meandering alongside Monument Creek for much of the race. Post-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 cozy small-town atmosphere that’s just right for scenic drives and harvest festivals.

Ridgefield Half Marathon | Ridgefield, CT 

October: The Ridgefield Half Marathon is a beginner-friendly half marathon with mostly flat miles, but also a few gradual climbs and a downhill finish to downtown Ridgefield. There is also a seven-mile race. 

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Delaware

Stroll the boardwalk and revel in serene coastal views in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. In winter, this seaside destination offers a peaceful escape from summer’s crowds. 

Rehoboth Beach Seashore Half Marathon | Rehoboth Beach, DE

December: The Rehoboth Beach Seashore Half Marathon is a delight for runners thanks to a flat course, ocean views, and a lively after-party with a DJ and unlimited food and soft drinks. 

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Florida

February can be hit-or-miss weather-wise in Central Florida, but for many it’s worth the risk to visit “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 – specifically, Magic Kingdom – hosts the Disney Princess Half Marathon, a bucket list race that’s part of the RunDisney series. Like Sleeping Beauty, you’ll want to get your beauty sleep. This race starts at 5 am. 

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Georgia

There’s a lot to love about Atlanta, Georgia, including its rich history, Southern charm, and flavorful food scene. It’s also a great jumping off point for the North Georgia mountains. 

Publix Atlanta Half Marathon | Atlanta, GA

March: The Publix Atlanta Half Marathon is one of the largest half marathons in Georgia, attracting thousands of runners who converge on Centennial Park to run Atlanta’s tree-lined and historic streets. There is also a 5K and a marathon. 

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Hawaii

From the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites to the saucer-shaped crater at Diamond Head State Monument, Honolulu, Hawaii has a lot to offer visitors and runners alike. 

Hapalua Hawaii’s Half Marathon | Honolulu, HI 

April: The Hapalua Hawaii’s Half Marathon guides runners across some of the most iconic areas of Honolulu, including Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. Hawaii’s largest half marathon starts at 6 am, in time for a colorful sunrise. 

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Idaho

Boise, Idaho is a win for its urban charm, hiking trails, welcoming atmosphere, and mountain beauty. The Boise Idaho Potato Trail showcases the many uses of potatoes. 

Famous Idaho Potato Half Marathon | Boise, ID

May: The Famous Idaho Potato Half Marathon is a must-run event if only for access to the legendary baked potato bar – with all the toppings. There is also a marathon, a 10K, and a 5K.

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Illinois

Illinois may be the “Land of Lincoln,” but in Springfield, Illinois, you’re really in the “Land of Lincoln,” thanks to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Lincoln’s one-time home.

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 in the shape of a giant five-inch wide penny, which of course, bears Lincoln’s likeness. This race route goes all in on Lincoln history too, even passing Lincoln’s tomb. 

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Indiana

Indianapolis is a must-visit destination for world-class museums, like the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, lively downtown hub, and of course, the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway. 

OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon | Indianapolis, IN

May: You don’t have to be a fan of car racing to want to add the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon to your bucket list. Known as “The Mini,” this celebrated race includes a lap around the speedway’s famous oval track. 

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Iowa

Iowa’s capital city, Des Moines, is a laid-back town with a flourishing art scene, beautiful parks, and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities, including more than 800 miles of bike trails. 

Drake Road Races Half Marathon | Des Moines, IA

April: The Drake Road Races Half Marathon is one of several races that make up the Drake Road Races, including a 10K and a 5K. The finish line is located on the iconic blue oval – which  has hosted Olympians, by the way – inside Drake Stadium at Drake University. 

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Kansas

Kansas City has a lot going on, including a serious barbecue scene and a beloved pro football team. It’s also got a mega coffee culture with some of the best roasters and coffee shops anywhere. 

Running with the Cows Half Marathon | Bucyrus, KS 

May: Less than one hour south of Kansas City is Bucyrus, which hosts the annual Running with the Cows Half Marathon. A scenic rural course features rolling countryside, acres of farmland, and plenty of cows, including a fantastic finishers medal with a cow wearing running shoes. 

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Kentucky

As home to Churchill Downs, Louisville, Kentucky is naturally best known for horse racing. It’s also noted for bourbon distilleries and the Louisville Loop, a 100-mile trail system. 

Kentucky Derby Festival Mini Marathon | Louisville, KY

April: The Kentucky Derby Festival Mini Marathon features a scenic course through Louisville, but the real highlight is the stretch through historic Churchill Downs. The race takes place the weekend before the Kentucky Derby, so you may see jockeys on the practice track. 

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Louisiana

Baton Rouge, Louisiana is a great destination to visit in winter when the climate is mild and the humidity is low. Make time for historic sites, festivals, and the Louisiana State Capitol.

Louisiana Half Marathon | Baton Rouge, LA

January: The Louisiana Half Marathon wins over runners with a picturesque course through downtown Baton Rouge and along the Mississippi River. A post-race finish festival features live music and seriously delicious local cuisine, like jambalaya and shrimp and okra gumbo. 

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Maine

It’s easy to love Portland, Maine, with its lobster rolls, lighthouses, craft breweries, picturesque waterfront, and of course, the cobblestone streets of the historic Old Port district.

Shipyard Old Port Half Marathon | Portland, ME

June: The Shipyard Old Port Half Marathon is a race to love for the views across Casco Bay and the Shipyard Brewing Company beer on hand for all runners – of drinking age, of course. Not up for a half marathon? There’s also a 5K race.

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Maryland

Frederick, Maryland is a great place to visit thanks to its historic charm, quaint boutique shops, and its close proximity to outdoor recreation, like Catoctin Mountain Park. 

Frederick Half Marathon | Frederick, MD

May: The Frederick Half Marathon is one component of the annual Frederick Running Festival, which also includes a two-person relay race, a 5K, and a kids’ fun run. The scenic race route winds through historic Frederick and the Frederick Fairgrounds. 

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Massachusetts

Cape Cod’s scenic beaches, charming shops, and light crowds offer a peaceful escape in early-spring as the sun’s rays begin to warm this iconic New England destination.

Hyannis Half Marathon | Hyannis, MA

March: The Hyannis Half Marathon wows runners with a race course that puts the scenic beauty of Cape Cod on full display, including coastal vistas, sandy beaches, and historic neighborhoods. The course even passes the Kennedy Family Compound.

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Michigan

It’s hard to beat Traverse City, Michigan during the National Cherry Festival. It’s a time for parades, cherry-themed treats, a carnival, a golf scramble, and running races. 

Traverse City Cherry Festival Half Marathon | Traverse City, MI

July: The Traverse City Cherry Festival Half Marathon is one of four races that make up the Meijer Festival of Races during the National Cherry Festival. The course runs along the scenic peninsula, boasting big views across West Grand Traverse Bay. 

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Minnesota

Duluth, Minnesota is probably best known for its views across Lake Superior. However, this Midwest town is also renowned for its scenic trails, vibrant waterfront, and historic Canal Park.

Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon | Duluth, MN

June: The Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon is one of several races that take place during Grandma’s Marathon Weekend, including a 5K and a marathon. The half marathon, in particular, is extremely popular, attracting upwards of 10,000 runners every year. 

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Mississippi

Coastal Mississippi is a joy in winter months thanks to mild temperatures and festive holiday events. Explore beautiful beaches, seasonal celebrations, and a peaceful escape.

Mississippi Gulf Coast Half Marathon | Gulfport, MS 

December: The Mississippi Gulf Coast Half Marathon is a point-to-point race that runs along Beach Blvd from Gulfport to Biloxi with pristine gulf views every step of the way. The race ends with a Finish Fest at MGM Park with live music, local seafood, and delicious barbecue. 

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Missouri

St. Louis, Missouri is a must-visit for Gateway Arch, but also for the expansive Forest Park, which boasts trails, lakes, and gardens for hiking and relaxation. 

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

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

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Montana

The stunning landscapes of Missoula make this Montana destination a gateway for outdoor adventures, like kayaking and fly fishing on the Clark Fork River. 

Missoula Half Marathon | Missoula, MT

June: The Missoula Half Marathon boasts a fast and flat course that winds through Missoula and the surrounding landscape, featuring views across the Clark Fork River. The point-to-point race begins in Frenchtown and ends in historic downtown Missoula. 

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Nebraska

Omaha is the largest city in Nebraska. It’s also home to a scenic waterfront, a network of trails and green spaces, and one of the world’s top five zoos, Henry Doorly Zoo. 

Nebraska Half | Omaha, NE

April: The Nebraska Half takes runners all across downtown Omaha, starting and finishing at Gene Leahy Mall, a beloved urban park that boasts lush green spaces, a sculpture garden, a dog park, and splashy water features. 

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Nevada

Las Vegas, Nevada has something for everyone. There are casinos and Michelin star restaurants, but also outdoor adventures at Red Rock Canyon and Valley of Fire 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 starts at 4:30 pm and runs up and back down Las Vegas Blvd. The final steps are in the dark, amongst the brightly-lit neon signs of the casinos. 

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New Hampshire

Bristol, New Hampshire is a dream in fall thanks to stunning foliage views, particularly along the shores of Newfound Lake and on the wooded hiking trails at Wellington State Park. 

New Hampshire Half Marathon | Bristol, New Hampshire 

October: The New Hampshire Half Marathon is said to be among the most beautiful races in New England, taking place during peak foliage season. There are four races, including a marathon, a half marathon, a 10K, and a one-mile kids’ race so everyone can enjoy the fall colors. 

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New Jersey

In spring, enjoy a walk on the iconic boardwalk in Atlantic City, New Jersey, minus the summer crowds. Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge is wonderful for birdwatching.

April Fools Half Marathon | Atlantic City, 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 features more than eight miles of running on the boardwalk, affording delightful views across the Atlantic Ocean. This fast, flat course is a great way to kick off the running season, maybe with a personal best time. 

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New Mexico

In Albuquerque, New Mexico, enjoy hikes in the Sandia Mountains or Rio Grande Valley. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in October draws visitors from around the world.  

Great Balloon Chase Half Marathon | Albuquerque, NM 

October: The Great Balloon Chase Half Marathon is a must since it takes place during the world-famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. The half marathon starts at 7 am, just as hundreds of hot air balloons begin to fill the skies. 

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New York

New York’s Finger Lakes region boasts breathtaking views of fall foliage that’s just right for scenic drives, hikes, and running 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 starts in Campbell and finishes on historic Market Street in Corning. The scenic course winds through small towns and country roads. This fast, flat race even boasts a net elevation drop of 40 feet. 

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North Carolina

In Wilmington, North Carolina, enjoy a historic downtown and scenic riverwalk, then head out to Carolina Beach State Park along the Cape Fear River for paddling and easy hiking trails.  

Novant Health Wilmington Half Marathon | Wilmington, NC

February: The Novant Health Wilmington Half Marathon wows runners all along a point-to-point route that runs between Wrightsville Beach and Wilmington. Organizers claim it’s the fastest paced course on the East Coast, which is ideal for all those PR seekers. 

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North Dakota

Fargo, North Dakota has green spaces, blooming gardens, and nature reserves, as well as art museums and the historic Fargo Theatre, an art deco style cinema. 

Fargo Half Marathon | Fargo, ND

May: The Fargo Half Marathon guides runners along tree-lined streets and scenic paths beside the Red River, all the while keeping runners motivated with live music. The half marathon is part of one of the state’s largest running events, which also includes a marathon, a 10K, and a 5K. 

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Ohio

Cincinnati, Ohio is known for parks, like Smale Riverfront Park, outdoor festivals, and hiking and biking trails, like the 78-mile Little Miami Scenic Trail. 

Flying Pig Half Marathon | Cincinnati, OH

May: The Flying Pig Half Marathon is one of the most popular half marathons in the state, if not the United States. The course guides runners across downtown streets, then over and back across the Ohio River. Several restaurants along the race route host viewing parties. 

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Oklahoma

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

Oklahoma City Memorial Half Marathon | Oklahoma City, OK

April: The Oklahoma City Memorial Half Marathon route winds through downtown, past the State Capitol, and past landmarks, like the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum. Along the route, look for 168 banners, one for each of those killed in the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995.

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Oregon

Home to the University of Oregon, Eugene is known for its extensive network of running trails along the Willamette River and its status as a hub for runners and track athletes. 

Eugene Half Marathon | Eugene, OR

April: The Eugene Half Marathon is a favorite among runners for its flat and fast course. This race celebrates the rich history of Eugene – known as “TrackTown USA.” This race attracts runners from across the country at the start of Eugene’s famous track and field season.  

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Pennsylvania

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania is a popular destination among Civil War history buffs, renowned for Gettysburg National Military Park, which preserves the historic battlefields. 

Blue-Gray Half Marathon | Gettysburg, PA

April: The Blue-Gray Half Marathon is part of the Gettysburg Festival of Races, which also includes a marathon and a 5K. The half marathon runs just outside the battlefields of Gettysburg, which are among the most significant sites in U.S. history. 

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Rhode Island

Newport, Rhode Island offers a picturesque backdrop of vibrant foliage in fall for visitors eager to explore the coastal cliffs and Gilded Age mansions, particularly the famed Cliff Walk. 

Amica Newport Half Marathon | Newport, RI

October: The Amica Newport Half Marathon is a scenic race that leads runners along the stunning coastline, affording exquisite water views. The race frequently ranks among the best half marathons in the country thanks to its rocky beaches and ocean panoramas. 

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South Carolina

South Carolina’s Myrtle Beach is a winner for expansive sandy beaches and green spaces, like Myrtle Beach State Park, which has a 302-site campground. 

Myrtle Beach Mini Marathon | Myrtle Beach, SC

October: The Myrtle Beach Mini Marathon is a favorite race for its coastal scenery and flat course, offering runners a chance to savor the ocean views and some of country’s most visited beaches. More than five miles of the course parallels the coastline along Ocean Blvd. 

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South Dakota

Spearfish, South Dakota is known for tumbling waterfalls, scenic drives, and cool mountain streams. It’s also less than one hour from the iconic Devils Tower. 

Spearfish Canyon Half Marathon | Spearfish, SD

July: The Spearfish Canyon Half Marathon features a breathtaking course that guides runners through scenic Spearfish Canyon. As a bonus, the race starts and ends at Spearfish City Park, which has a campground with RV sites and full hook-ups. 

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Tennessee

In the fall, Chattanooga, Tennessee boasts stunning fall foliage across the Appalachian Mountains. Enjoy easy trails at Lookout Mountain, as well as Ruby Falls and Rock City. 

7 Bridges Half Marathon | Chattanooga, TN

October: The 7 Bridges Half Marathon is part of Chattanooga’s largest and most beloved race weekend, which also includes a marathon, a 10K, a 5K, and a 1K family fun run. The race wows with views of the Tennessee River, Walnut Street Bridge, and Lookout Mountain. 

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Texas

Austin, Texas is known for its live music scene, but it’s also worth a visit for food trucks, festivals, kayaking on Lady Bird Lake, and all kinds of flavorful Tex-Mex food. 

Ascension Seton Austin Half Marathon | Austin, TX

February: The Ascension Seton Austin Half Marathon is a favorite among runners eager to see the city since this course includes historic neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and a finish line in front of the Texas State Capitol. 

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Utah

St. George, Utah is a must-visit for its red sandstone cliffs and desert landscapes. It’s also a fantastic base for exploring Zion National Park and Sand Hollow State Park. 

St. George Half Marathon | St. George, UT

October: The St. George Half Marathon is celebrated for a wildly picturesque course with views of red rock landscapes. As a bonus, St. George is a stone’s throw from gorgeous state parks in both Utah and Nevada, including Valley of Fire State Park. 

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Vermont

Woodstock, Vermont is a classic New England town known for historic charm, natural beauty, and yes, covered bridges. Across Vermont, more than 100 covered bridges are still in use today.

Covered Bridges Half Marathon | Woodstock, VT

June: The Covered Bridges Half Marathon takes runners alongside rural farmland and over several historic covered bridges. Post-race, explore local landmarks, like the Billings Farm & Museum, which features a restored farmhouse and a modern dairy.

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Virginia

Virginia Beach, with its world-famous three-mile boardwalk, beautiful beaches, and vibrant murals in the ViBE Creative District, is a winner at any time of year. 

Anthem Shamrock Half Marathon | Virginia Beach, VA

March: The Anthem Shamrock Half Marathon is one of several races held during Yuengling Shamrock Marathon Weekend. The course guides runners north along Atlantic Avenue, past the lighthouses at Fort Story, then finishes in front of the iconic King Neptune statue.

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Washington

In the fall, Leavenworth, Washington is a fan favorite for its Bavarian-style village, hiking in the Cascade Mountains, and of course, the annual Oktoberfest festivities. 

Leavenworth Half Marathon | Leavenworth, WA

October: The Leavenworth Half Marathon delights runners with a course that runs through Icicle Canyon, then transitions to scenic trails along the Icicle River. Post-race, celebrate Oktoberfest with brats, brews, and schnitzels.  

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West Virginia

At the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia features a national historical park, access to the Appalachian Trail, and plenty of rafting adventures. 

Harpers Ferry Half | Harpers Ferry, WV

May: The Harpers Ferry Half has a hilly course, but that only makes the finish that much sweeter when the race ends next to the Harpers Ferry / Civil Water Battlefields KOA. A blend of Civil War history and natural beauty make this a memorable race. 

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Wisconsin

Eau Claire is a small college town in Wisconsin with quaint cafés, lively festivals, and excellent hiking and biking trails, like the 30-mile Chippewa River State Trail. 

Eau Claire Half Marathon | Eau Claire, WI

April: The Eau Claire Half Marathon is considered a favorite race, even voted into the top five in the U.S. by BibRave, a site for runners with race reviews. The scenic course passes the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, the Chippewa River, and Dells Pond. 

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Wyoming

Minutes from Grand Teton National Park, Jackson, Wyoming is truly the gateway to outdoor adventures, like hiking, paddling, and wildlife watching across the stunning landscapes.  

Jackson Hole Half Marathon | Jackson, WY

May: The Jackson Hole Half Marathon features a stunning course with wildly picturesque views of the Teton Mountains and the western charm of downtown Jackson. The race ends in-town at Phil Baux Park. 

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National Park Half Marathons

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

If you’re a fan of national parks and you like to run, you might want to check out the dozen-plus half marathons organized by Vacation Races, all set near stunning national parks. I’ve had the chance to run three of these races – the Zion Half Marathon, Rocky Mountain Half Marathon, and Saguaro Half Marathon – and I’m already planning my next one. The Grand Teton Half Marathon is high on my list.

The races are super well-organized, and the medals are top-notch. What’s even better is their commitment to being zero waste. Instead of single-use water bottles or paper cups, each runner is given a foldable, reusable cup that you can loop around your finger while running. It’s a small but impactful way to keep the courses clean and green. 

All of the races are close to RV parks and campgrounds, making them perfect for RV travel. Whether you’re driving your own right or renting one through RVshare, it’s a great way to explore the parks before or after your race. 

Preparing and Packing for Your Half Marathon

Packing for a half marathon involves more than just throwing your running gear into a bag. Here’s what to bring to make sure you’re prepared and comfortable on race day:

Essential Gear

  • Running Shoes
  • Moisture-Wicking Running Clothes
  • Running Socks
  • Running Belt (for carrying your phone or car keys)

For the Race

  • Race Bib and Timing Chip
  • Energy Gels or Chews (to re-fuel during the race)
  • Sunscreen
  • ID and Race Registration Confirmation

Post-Race Essentials

  • Recovery Snacks (high in protein and carbs, like protein bars or fruit)
  • Foam Roller (for post-race muscle relief)

Setting out to run a half marathon in every state is an exciting way to experience the natural beauty and diversity of the country. I’ve loved every step – pun intended – of my journey. Traveling by RV makes it even better, giving you flexibility, personal comforts, easy access to nature, even convenience for pet owners since RVs are generally pet-friendly. So it’s a cinch to bring your pet(s) with you.

Whether you have your own RV or plan to rent one along the way, this fun mix of running and RV travel turns every race into an unforgettable adventure. Who knew it was so easy to combine fitness, fun, and the freedom to discover new places at your own pace?