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Best half marathon in every state11 Best (and Most Scenic) Half Marathons in the U.S.
Feeling motivated? Runner's Goal compiled a collection of the best marathons across the country based on reviews from runners themselves. Using data on race amenities, reviews and qualifiers, we determined the best marathon in every state. Registration: Click here. Why it's a great race: The course features breathtaking scenery in a historic Old West town. Why it's a great race: Runners begin in the rural countryside, then pass through suburbs and finish in view of Milwaukee's downtown skyline.
Why it's a great race: The race benefits a program that supports veterans seeking employment. Why it's a great race: Part of the Rock 'n' Roll series, the marathon features a festive atmosphere with live music and a post-race concert.
Why it's a great race: Runners enjoy Richmond's scenic neighborhoods along the James River as well as pizza and cold beverages at the finish line. Why it's a great race: The marathon offers to match runners with similarly paced competitors so that groups of participants can race together. Why it's a great race: Race-day activities include a cheer and entertainment zone competition, arts and crafts and a bounce house for kids, and a beer garden.
Why it's a great race: Runners enjoy enthusiastic crowds along the way and a fireworks show at the race's conclusion.
Why it's a great race: The course takes runners through several of Knoxville's most beautiful neighborhoods while they enjoy live music. Why it's a great race: The course takes runners through scenic parks around Sioux Falls. Why it's a great race: The marathon benefits the Kiawah Island Conservancy, which supports nature on the scenic island. Why it's a great race: The race takes place on the shady East Bay bike path, which features beautiful Rhode Island scenery.
Why it's a great race: Participants in this large-scale race enjoy fall weather, historical Philadelphia landmarks, and the company of thousands of other runners. Why it's a great race: The course takes runners through Yaquina Bay State Park, which features some of the state's most breathtaking scenery.
Why it's a great race: The race commemorates the victims of the Oklahoma City bombing, and runners pass by banners in their honor. Why it's a great race: Runners enjoy a scenic course through Cleveland, featuring the city's landmarks and Lake Erie.
Why it's a great race: It's a massive event, with more than 20, participants and over 40 live bands. Why it's a great race: The course takes runners through secluded scenery, and they're rewarded at the end with homemade chicken and dumplings.
Why it's a great race: Runners pass through all five of New York's boroughs amid cheering crowds. Why it's a great race: The race is one of New Mexico's premier events, and thousands of runners participate.
Why it's a great race: The race has a great small-town feel, and amenities include entertainment and post-race massages. Why it's a great race: Runners enjoy breathtaking views of the canyon as they pass through the course. Why it's a great race: Runners run a scenic route through Omaha, with aid stations located every two miles.
Why it's a great race: The summertime race, which is Montana's oldest marathon, takes runners through scenic country back roads, finishing in downtown Helena. Why it's a great race: Runners travel between Missouri and Illinois, passing through the historic downtown district of St. Louis and Forest Park. Why it's a great race: Runners are treated to live blues music before, after and even during the race.
Why it's a great race: Participants enjoy beautiful scenery when they run around four lakes and along both sides of the Mississippi River. Why it's a great race: Bring your passport - this race briefly takes runners across the border into Canada. Registration: You must qualify in advance; click here.
Why it's a great race: It's one of the world's preeminent marathons, and takes thousands of runners through Boston amid cheering crowds. Why it's a great race: Participants run alongside the scenic Potomac River, with plentiful aid stations.
Why it's a great race: The course takes runners through the Louisiana capital's lakes, rivers, university campus and different neighborhoods. Why it's a great race: Runners pass through the historic Churchill Downs race course, where the Kentucky Derby takes place. Why it's a great race: The course features beautiful scenery, aid stations are located every few miles, and the race benefits the Kids Foundation, which supports Kansas City children with cancer.
Registration : Click here. Why it's a great race: The trail is a converted railroad line lined by trees across scenic countryside. Why it's a great race: One of the nation's largest marathons, the Chicago Marathon attracts more than 45, runners from across the country and around the world. Why it's a great race: Runners enjoy beautiful views of mountains, valleys and Lake Lowell. Why it's a great race: The race takes runners though scenic Hololulu and gives them the opportunity to support charities, including the Australian Cancer Research Foundation, Children's Tumor Foundation and Beyondblue.
Why it's a great race: The race is one of the fastest marathons in the country, and all participants get a free ticket to the Rock 'n' Roll Music Festival. Why it's a great race: Thousands of runners pass through downtown Miami and along scenic beachfront views, with more than 20 entertainment stations. Course: Flat, with the majority of the course on crushed stones and paved surfaces. Why it's a great race: The race takes runners past beautiful coastal scenery, including lakes, ponds, swamps, woods and farms, and rewards them with a post-race buffet.
Why it's a great race: This marathon is part of the New England Challenge, where runners complete five marathons throughout New England in five days.
Why it's a great race: The course takes runners alongside lakes, rivers and bridges, through downtown Denver, all in view of the Rocky Mountains. Why it's a great race: The majority of the course is lined with cheering spectators as well as musical performers who keep runners' spirits up. Why it's a great race: There's a special Pace Team of veteran runners who can help you keep your pace as you run. Why it's a great race: Sedona is known for its gorgeous scenery, and this race takes runners through the Coconino National Forest, known for its breathtaking rock formations.
Course: An out-and-back race, with temperatures in the 50s and 60s but a high chance of rain. Why it's a great race: You'll run past miles of picturesque coastline, and likely see local wildlife: seals, otters, bears, wolves, eagles, sea lions, eagles and beavers all live on the island.
Why it's a great race: The course takes runners past beautiful Alabama scenery, including historic antebellum homes, the Huntsville Botanical Gardens and under the U. Space and Rocket Center. Location: Grafton Course: Mostly flat Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: Runners begin in the rural countryside, then pass through suburbs and finish in view of Milwaukee's downtown skyline.
Location: Seattle Course: Some parts hilly, some parts flat Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: Part of the Rock 'n' Roll series, the marathon features a festive atmosphere with live music and a post-race concert. Location: Richmond Course: Mostly flat with a few large hills Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: Runners enjoy Richmond's scenic neighborhoods along the James River as well as pizza and cold beverages at the finish line.
Location: Burlington Course: Not very hilly but a few challenging climbs Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: The marathon offers to match runners with similarly paced competitors so that groups of participants can race together. Location: Salt Lake City Course: Mostly downhill but with some inclines Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: Race-day activities include a cheer and entertainment zone competition, arts and crafts and a bounce house for kids, and a beer garden.
Location: College Station Course: Mostly flat with a few hills Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: Runners enjoy enthusiastic crowds along the way and a fireworks show at the race's conclusion. Location: Knoxville Course: Several rolling hills with some flat sections Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: The course takes runners through several of Knoxville's most beautiful neighborhoods while they enjoy live music.
Location: Providence Course: Significant hills at the beginning and end; the middle is mostly flat Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: The race takes place on the shady East Bay bike path, which features beautiful Rhode Island scenery. Location: Philadelphia Course: Flat and fast Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: Participants in this large-scale race enjoy fall weather, historical Philadelphia landmarks, and the company of thousands of other runners.
Location: Oklahoma City Course: Gently rolling hills, no steep inclines Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: The race commemorates the victims of the Oklahoma City bombing, and runners pass by banners in their honor. Location: Fargo Course: Fast and flat Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: It's a massive event, with more than 20, participants and over 40 live bands. Location: Ellerbe Course: Two steep climbs during the course Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: The course takes runners through secluded scenery, and they're rewarded at the end with homemade chicken and dumplings.
Location: Albuquerque Course: Beginner-friendly, out-and-back trail Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: The race is one of New Mexico's premier events, and thousands of runners participate. Location: Bristol Course: Starts out hilly but becomes flat downhill Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: The race has a great small-town feel, and amenities include entertainment and post-race massages.
Location: Lovell Canyon Course: Challenging, with elevation changes in a hot climate Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: Runners enjoy breathtaking views of the canyon as they pass through the course. Location: Omaha Course: Paved roads, mostly flat Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: Runners run a scenic route through Omaha, with aid stations located every two miles.
Location: Helena Course: Mostly downhill, but some rolling hills Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: The summertime race, which is Montana's oldest marathon, takes runners through scenic country back roads, finishing in downtown Helena.
Location: St. Location: Jackson Course: Moderately hilly Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: Runners are treated to live blues music before, after and even during the race.
Location: Twin Cities Course: Mostly flat, a few rolling hills Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: Participants enjoy beautiful scenery when they run around four lakes and along both sides of the Mississippi River. Location: Baton Rouge Course: Fast and flat Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: The course takes runners through the Louisiana capital's lakes, rivers, university campus and different neighborhoods.
Location: Kansas City Course: Relatively flat with a few hills Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: The course features beautiful scenery, aid stations are located every few miles, and the race benefits the Kids Foundation, which supports Kansas City children with cancer.
Location: Chicago Course: Fast and flat Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: One of the nation's largest marathons, the Chicago Marathon attracts more than 45, runners from across the country and around the world.
Location: Miami Course: Mostly flat with a few bridges Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: Thousands of runners pass through downtown Miami and along scenic beachfront views, with more than 20 entertainment stations. Location: Dewey Beach Course: Flat, with the majority of the course on crushed stones and paved surfaces Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: The race takes runners past beautiful coastal scenery, including lakes, ponds, swamps, woods and farms, and rewards them with a post-race buffet.
Location: Hartford Course: 12 laps on a mostly asphalt course Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: This marathon is part of the New England Challenge, where runners complete five marathons throughout New England in five days.
Location: Denver Course: 5,feet elevation Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: The course takes runners alongside lakes, rivers and bridges, through downtown Denver, all in view of the Rocky Mountains.
Location: Oakland Course: Some hilly spots and some flat stretches throughout Oakland Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: The majority of the course is lined with cheering spectators as well as musical performers who keep runners' spirits up. Location: Sedona Course: Hilly, with half the route on paved roadways and half on dirt or gravel Boston qualifier: Yes Registration: Click here Why it's a great race: Sedona is known for its gorgeous scenery, and this race takes runners through the Coconino National Forest, known for its breathtaking rock formations.
Location: Prince of Wales Island, starting at Craig High School and following the Klawock Channel Course: An out-and-back race, with temperatures in the 50s and 60s but a high chance of rain Boston Qualifier: Yes Registration: click here Why it's a great race: You'll run past miles of picturesque coastline, and likely see local wildlife: seals, otters, bears, wolves, eagles, sea lions, eagles and beavers all live on the island.
Best half marathon in every state -
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The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page. Manage Settings Continue with Recommended Cookies. A half-marathon is the perfect stepping stone race if your goal is to run a full marathon. Here are the 50 state-by-state half marathons below.
If you have any half marathons that might be worthy please share them in the comments at the bottom of this page. If you have a great one to add please use the format shown in each state. In the description field, please add the reason why the race you chose is worthy of a bucket list. Description : Have you ever wanted to run past a space rocket? This course takes you past some fantastic Alabama scenes, including the U.
Space and Rocket Centre and gorgeous historic homes from the antebellum period. Description : This summer solstice run brings together hundreds of people worldwide to race around the beautiful scenery and wildlife around Anchorage.
This is a Boston qualifier with reasonably flat, highly runnable roads. Running on the Bay Bridge will give you plenty of picture-perfect opportunities. The course has many flat stretches with a few hilly spots thrown in.
Description : This race takes place on one of the largest running weekends in the Rockie Mountains. The path is a mostly paved asphalt course except for a brief stretch of gravel road.
Description : The race has a beautiful start with fantastic ocean views at the starting line. The mostly flat route is lined with entertainment stations to keep you motivated. Description : This race is consistently ranked one of the best in the country. The course begins beside the beach in Waikiki, loops around Diamond Head, and finishes in Kapiolani Park with a festival, concerts, and fresh malasadas.
Description : Previously known as Onward Shaw! The course is flat and stays clear of downtown, and the race itself is always well organized. Description : Run through historic Indianapolis and past some of the cities most exciting landmarks.
Proceeds from the race are donated to public education. Description : The Gobbler Frind is a great fall race to get you ready for your Thanksgiving feast.
The course is semi-flat and features a relatively easy route through local scenery, woods, and paved trails. The proceeds help fund the Kids Foundation. Description : This race is a longstanding tradition is part of the run-up to the Kentucky Derby so expect Louisville to be in a festive mood. Description : Part of the Louisiana Festival weekend, this fast and flat course takes you through the historic neighborhoods of Baton Rouge, the University Lakes, and Louisiana State University Campus.
Description : This flat and fast half boasts of being one of the easiest half and full marathons in the U. Description : While the full Marathon will see you running to Canada and back, the half is U. Description : Bundle up for this mid-winter race full of gentling rolling hills and snowy scenery around Vadnais Heights. With aid stations located every few miles, this extremely flat route is excellent for getting a good PR.
The route will take you through the rolling terrains full of desert vegetation. The shade of the canyon will keep you cool as you work your way through. Description : Race this well-organized race with a small-town feel and get treated to some fantastic post-race entertainment. Enjoy your victory with a huge post-race festival and experience one of the top-ranked half-marathons in the world! Description : Yes, there will be chicken and dumplings after you run Description : This is one of the best small town half marathons in the country.
The Fast and flat course is made for all experience levels. Description : This event can get pretty crowded, with around 25, participants from all over the world. It is one of the top marathon weekends in the country, and all of Philly comes out to cheer the runners. Description : The event takes place on Conanicut Island, looking over the beautiful Narragansett Bay. Description : Starting in the picturesque West Beach Village, this half marathon features some breathtaking scenery, including maritime forests, marshes, and some large estates.
Description : The route is mainly flat with some rolling hills. Live music and a health and fitness expo cap this family-friendly race weekend off. Description : This is the highest-rated half marathon in Texas. Firework shows cap the day off. Description : There are many hills in Salt Lake City, although the course is overall a downhill course. Description : This out-and-back course will take you along the Burlington Bike Path heading towards Waterfront Parch, with a two-mile loop through Colchester midway.
This no-frill, early season race is a great way to start your running season in New England. Aside from a few flat sections, the course is almost entirely downhill. Description : This challenging course will take you through the seven wards of Morgantown with all its rolling hills and gorgeous views.
Festivals and concerts will cap off the day, and proceeds go towards helping Veterans find full-time job placements. The course is a flat out-and-back style with a handful of gradual hills. Great list. You get to run through Times Square. This half marathon and New Years Eve are the only two times during the year that Times Square is closed to automobile traffic. The Detroit Free Press has a half that also goes into Canada. There are two courses to choose from.
Thank you so much for this info on the Detroit Free Press. I have yet to run a race in Canada or into Canada. It is definitely on my bucket list! This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed. Vendor List Privacy Policy.
Thanks, swosei12blog! Scott specializes in helping new runners become injury-free race finishers. He recently completed his 17th half marathon race.
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