For runners, looking ahead to the best summer half-marathons in the United States, we’ve got a list that’s a great jumping off point. And just for fun, we’re throwing in some spring half-marathons too because it’s all about when you start your training and maybe that tune up race.
There’s nothing quite like those first weeks when the weather starts to feel warm with the promise of the spring to come, and summer to follow soon.
The ice is melting, the snow is hopefully a thing of the past, and even chilly winds seems to smell a little sweeter after a long winter stuck indoors. So of course that has your wheels turning and your desire to run farther means it’s time for a race to test those legs!!
11 Best Summer Half Marathons in the US
Whether you’re looking for something unique, something gorgeous or something huge with crowds we have got you covered. Now like we said this list is going to cover some spring into summer because a lot of summer half marathons start having names like “The Death March” and we don’t so much consider that fun as hot and icky.
Remember a good half marathon plan is usually 12-16 weeks! We have a bunch of them free on the site whether you need to go from walking a half marathon to aiming for that sub two half marathon.
Maui Half Marathon
Date: April 27, 2025
Location: Wailuku, HI
Profile: Mostly flat
Type: Point-to-point
I’m sure I don’t have to convince you that a half marathon along the beach in Maui will be absolutely stunning.
This race starts at sunrise at the Shops at Wailea in Maalaea Harbor and ends at Launiuopoko Beach.
In between those two points, runners will head south onto Kihei Road and through the oceanfront town of Kihei. It’s all asphalt and mostly flat, though there is a 4-mile stretch in the middle with some moderately challenging hills.
Your friends and family will no doubt be excited to come along and support you for this one, and there are scenic pullouts and public beaches all along the course where they can enjoy the scenery, too.
All in all, this one seems like a no-brainer.
“Starting location was top notch for comfort, amenities, bathroom access, shade, drinks, etc. Outstanding course services and quality of volunteers, attitude, and Aloha spirit. Waiting for runners to come in was fun and congenial and have made new friends from several locations. Outstanding!” – fwtaylor56 (RaceRaves)
Real Simple Women’s Half Marathon
Date: April 2025 (TBD)
Location: New York, NY
Profile: Rolling Hills
Type: Loop
As advertised, this half marathon is simple, and all about fun, fitness, and women gathering together. It’s purpose is to inspire and empower women on a fitness journey, and the course runs through Manhattan’s Central Park.
There’s a live band and other fun activities waiting for fans and runners at the finish line.
REAL SIMPLE is the number one women’s lifestyle magazine and is passionate about connecting its audience in real life and online. Food Bank for New York City is the race’s official charity partner, and their mission is to help New Yorkers achieve permanent food security, among other things.
A worthy cause and a day of fun with your sisters – what could be better?
“This race involves running up Harlem Hill twice…let that sink in. It’s very hilly since it’s a full 2 loops of Central Park and its rolling hills. Even the finish is up an incline, which is just mean.
It’s put on by NYRR so it’s well organized, the shirt is tech, the medal isn’t half bad, and there’s a nice spread of things to see once you finish as well as a goodie bag for each participant complete with samples of food, coupons, etc. Being in Central Park, it’s also a pretty course and it’s easy to get to via public transportation.” – RunnerGirlKT (RaceRaves)
Indy Mini
Date: May 3, 2025
Location: Indianapolis, IN
Profile: Flat and fast
Type: Loop
The Indy Mini has consistently been one of the States’ largest half-marathons, and it has also been named one of America’s Most Iconic Races by Runner’s World two years running.
USAToday ranked it the #1 half marathon in the US, too.
The entire course begins and ends in the heart of Indianapolis, and with participants from all 50 states and 15+ countries, you’ll be able to feel the vibrant heart of the city beating as you prepare to start – or finish – this must-do mini-marathon. The course is described as mostly flat and fast, and takes runners through the city streets lined with entertainment.
More than 100 different entertainers flock to the course, making the run unique and exciting for fans as well as participants.
A big part of what makes it so popular and iconic is that part of the course is a 2.5-mile lap around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indianapolis 500. You’ll even have the chance to kiss the iconic bricks that are part of the fabled Yard of Bricks, which were once part of the start/finish line of the Brickyard 400. NASCAR champion Dale Jarrett and his crew chief, Todd Parrott, first kissed the Yard of Bricks after winning the race in 1996, and both drivers and runners have followed suit ever since.
Running the track is a bucket-list moment for many racing fans, and something most participants will never forget.
After the loop around the racetrack, the remaining 4.5 miles takes runners on a tour of Indianapolis neighborhoods. Live music will help you push through the ground you’ve got left and set you onto the straight shot back to the finish line.
“This was one of my favorite races, despite the humidity on race day. We stayed at the Marriott hotel and the corral was right out the back of the hotel doors so it was super convenient. The expo was great; so many booths were set up and samples of things to take. The race was a blast with a lot of crowd support and musical entertainment to cheer us on.
There were a couple sprinklers hooked up and a blessing to run through. I don’t know if I done a race with so many aid stations; so A+ for that! Running the track was an experience that I’ll never forget and there’s plenty of signage to tell you run on the right if you want to stop and kiss the bricks! The finish festival was very lively with music and food trucks. This race gets another A+ for having chocolate milk at the finish too.” – J. Kotowski (RaceRaves)
Santa Barbara Wine Country Half Marathon
Date: May 10, 2025
Location: Solvang, CA
Profile: Rolling hills
Type: Loop
The town of Solvang is located in the heart of Santa Barbara Wine Country, and is also known as the Danish capital of America.
You’ll see why as you take in the adorable windmill-dotted towns, the flower-bedded vineyards, and run past the Hans Christian Andersen Park on your way down into a beautiful canyon. The course also takes participants through Los Olivos, up and down Corkscrew Hill, and through seven stunning vineyards in the Santa Ynez Valley.
When you cross the finish line, the town’s excellent winemakers will have offerings, as well as live music, to celebrate your accomplishments. This is a one-of-a-kind race that combines gorgeous, historic scenery with excellent local wines.
If you love both of those things, you won’t want to skip it.
We can vouch for this being an insanely gorgeous course, checkout our Santa Barbara Half review.
“I enjoyed this course. I registered for the next year at the finishing festival. The course is really pretty. There is a super tough hill in the middle of the course. It was well supported. The shirts and the medal were nice. I enjoyed the wine festival. Parking was pretty easy. I am looking forward to next year.” – Charrapp (RaceRaves)
Ogden Half Marathon
Date: May 24, 2025
Location: Ogden, UT
Profile: Hilly
Type: Point-to-point
This half marathon, set in the Ohio Valley, starts from Eden, UT, along the northern edge of Pineview Reservoir.
It’s located in the Wasatch-Cache National Forest, and runners go from there to the Ogden Canyon. There, the course runs alongside the Ogden River for several miles until participants reach the finish line downtown. There are some changes in elevation that make the course challenging, but the scenery is sure to propel you forward as you take in more and more of Utah’s natural beauty.
Runner’s World and Shape.com have both ranked this race as one of the most beautiful in the world, as well as being a best for first timers.
“Hills, many hills…this was the third time I participated in this event. For change the weather was cool. The support on course was very good.. There were water stations every mile or so. The swag is nothing special, just a shirt. At end of race you get a nice medal and towel. It is my hometown race, so I support it. It is also the toughest 1/2 marathon I have ever entered by far. If you are looking for a WV race to add to your list of races this is definitely one to consider.” – tdnewman (RaceRaves)
Anchorage Mayor’s Midnight Half Marathon
Date: June 21, 2025
Location: Anchorage, AK
Profile: Some hills
Type: Point-to-point
This historic half marathon takes place on the Saturday closest to the summer solstice, meaning Anchorage experiences around 22 hours of daylight.
For more than 40 years, runners from all over the world have headed to Alaska to check out the midnight sun (and see the state itself for maybe their first time ever).
The race begins in Kincaid Park, inside the ConocoPhillips Soccer Stadium. From there, racers will head eact onto a main road, partially closed for runners’ safety. After 1.5 mils the course turns west to return to the Kincaid Chalet area, heading downhill through a cottonwood forest and onto the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail.
The Cook Inlet offers incomparable views of the Alaska range, and maybe even a beluga whale or two in the water.
The home stretch heads through Anchorage’s oldest neighborhood and finishes at Delaney Park Strip in downtown.
This is a change to check a whole bunch of things off your bucket list, so if you’re scheduling half marathons in 2025, make sure to check the box.
“The race takes you through a forest preserve along a bike trail. I didn’t see them but a few other runners saw moose and brown bears during the race. You also get to run through the Anchorage college and on the ceremonial start line of the Iditarod (sled dog race). There are a few climbs on this course, so get some hill training in.” – divefin (RaceRaves)
Slacker Half-Marathon
Date: June 28, 2025
Location: Georgetown, CO
Profile: Fast and flat/downhill
Type: Point-to-point
This course begins at the base of Loveland Ski Area, 10,630 feet above sea level.
Runners will descend to 8,400 feet over the course of the race, and the scenery between the start and finish lines will be something participants will likely never forget. The mix of dirt and paved roads winds through wetlands, waterfalls, and sweeping views of the Continental Divide, as well as the remnants of some historic mining sites.
The course ends in Georgetown, and once there runners will be greeted with craft beer and other goodies, live entertainment, and much-deserved pampering stations.
This is considered the highest downhill half marathon in the United States, and is the perfect race for runners who love scenery but would rather not run uphill.
You won’t want to miss it.
“This absolutely gorgeous race was such a blast.
You start at the ski area & it’s just beautiful. a bit chilly so prepare with some layers to shed. They make gear check super easy so you can toss layers right before the start.
TONS of port a potties. Like loads.
The mass start was a little bottle necked but perhaps due to some mud on the first part of the path. The views were just gorgeous.Be ready for some Colorado sunshine on the second half. It’s stunning though! The altitude was a fun challenge for a sea level out of towner.
The finish was in a cute little town and plenty of space for family to spectate. Tons to see in the town after. Nice medal, nice shirt and a bag you get at the end with everything. It was great!
Also hot dogs and other food at the end which was cool!
Loved this race and really enjoyed the morning! Really well done on all levels.” – Sam DeRusso (RaceRaves)
Mount Rainier Half Marathon
Date: July 19, 2025
Location: Enumclaw, WA
Profile: Hilly
Type: Loop
This race takes place in the Cascade Mountains, including Mount Rainier, which is one of the most awe-inspiring pieces of wilderness in the United States.
The course is challenging, with peaks and valleys, but with 360-degree views of Mount Rainier that will surely make all of the effort worth it. Runners will tackle a variety of terrains, from dirt paths to rocky outcrops, and will get to race through forests, meadows, and ridgelines along the way.
The nice thing about the ever-changing terrain is that you’ll never get bored, and if you leave your Airpods at home, the sounds of the creeks and forest will serenade you. The trees themselves, ancient Douglas firs and cedars, will be among the tallest – and most impressive race spectators.
It’s a challenging course, but there’s not other half marathon in the States that offers views like these.
“This was a gorgeous run! I never actually saw Mount Rainier during the race, but there were other mountains, as well as multiple wooded areas and a river all along the race route. The starting line and finish line are very close together at this race, which meant no shuttle was required. This made race morning go much smoother than other races I have done.
The first mile is on a very narrow shoulder along the highway so there is limited room to pass, but after that the course turns off the highway and widens out. From that point the course takes you through fields, forests, loose gravel, and packed gravel for about 7 miles. Some of the terrain was uneven and you have to use your hips and ankle muscles for stability more than a flatter course. There are 2 pretty significant hills, one about mile 3 and the next around mile 6-7. The hill at mile 3 is very obvious and feels pretty steep, but the hill at mile 6 did not feel quite as steep as it was because it was in a wooded area where the path curves so you can’t see how steep it is. After that hill, the course declines, which feels wonderful after the 2 previous climbs. Around mile 8 the course transitions to a paved road and continues for the remainder of the course.
This was a more difficult race due to the elevation increase as well as the uneven terrain, but it was definitely worth it. I train on very flat surfaces so for others who train on hills or trails it might not feel as hard.” – dlellifrits (RaceRaves)
Bridge of the Gods Half-Marathon
Date: August 2-3, 2025
Location: Cascade Locks, OR
Profile: Hilly
Type: Loop
Race Raves says this destination half-marathon is the best one in the country, and it’s hard to argue that the breathtaking views of the Columbia river could be beat.
This race kicks off on the Washington side of the Bridge of the Gods, giving racers a straight-down view of the roaring river.
Once across the bridge, the course passes quickly through the town of Cascade Locks and onto the paved Historic Columbia River Highway State Park Trail. The foothills of the Cascade Mountains provide views of a thick, shaded, old growth forest and the trail crosses 4 bridges and creeks along the way.
The half-marathon trail turns around at Moffett Creek and heads back to Cascade Locks, then into Marine Park – home of the Sternwheeler. You’ll finish across the bridge to Thunder Island, passing over the historic locks in the process.
There, you’ll find a beer garden, music, food, and everything else you’ll need to party right in the middle of the Columbia River.
A rockin’ good time, for sure.
“Pretty ordinary packet pickup, but nice race shirt. Race day parking and shuttles were well run. Course was paved trails, about 75% shaded, some steady inclines and declines made for a somewhat challenging race. Aid stations every 1.5 miles or so were well run. A little congestion mixing Half with slower 10K runners/walkers. Finishing medal was slightly disappointing, but post-race food was terrific. Overall great event. Glad I chose to do this race for my 50 state quest!” – Mjenn56 (RaceRaves)
Area 13.1 Half Marathon (Alien Half Marathon)
Date: August 16, 2025
Location: Roswell, GA
Profile: Flat and fast
Type: Point-to-point
This fun (and dark!) race begins just out of Riverside Park in Roswell, GA. Runners head east for 3 miles before turning south onto a dirt road for half a mile.
Around mile 5, the course veers into the woods so you can shake any aliens following you before heading back up to the park.
This time you’ll run beneath Roswell Road before a few other quick detours to deal with those pesky aliens.
Headlamps or flashlights are a must have for this course, which is very quirky and fun and just an altogether unique running experience.
“This course is great! Despite the hills you drive over to get there, it is pretty flat – and, on top of that, it’s got a lot of soft flat trail and soft boardwalk. Although there’s some doubling back and sharing with the 10k folks, it’s not bad at all. Even the road lanes were nice and wide and well policed.
It’s well marked/blocked off, though I wouldn’t want to do the forested trail section after dark. The last half is well lit (complete with alien sounds!), but if you know you’ll be on after dark, a headlamp/bodylamp is no-joke required, not just recommended.
The festival was great in that there was food, drink, and swag available before the start (I highly recommend a shaved ice before the start, to beat the heat). ” – dbierness (RaceRaves)
If you’re looking for the best spring half marathons, or best summer half marathons around the States, you’re bound to find the perfect fit in the list above.
Pick one (or two or three) and get running!
Whichever way you go, you won’t be disappointed with your experience.
Topo Aura Review | Max Cushion & Stability
Leave a Reply