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For sheer scale, there are few races that can offer a similar experience and there’s plenty more happening over the course of the weekend than the half marathon. As well as a 5k option on Saturday, you’ll find various other events peppered across the two days, from athletics to food and drink.

If you live in or near the UK, it’s a race that all runners should try at least once. Difficulty: Undulating, but with a lot of downhill sections — check route on Strava.

Part of the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon weekend, the Toronto half marathon is one the biggest races in the Canadian running calendar and the weekend marks the end of the Canadian Running Series. Unfortunately, the event is virtual but we’ll update this guide as soon as details of the event are posted.

The three distances see 26, participants, of which around 4, take part in the half marathon, head through the cheering crowds of the city and the impressive shoreline. Runners covering the half distance start with the marathoners at University Avenue and weave around some of the cities most famous landmarks for 7km before a long stretch along Lakeshore Boulevard.

The event is a large-scale spectacle where crowds and entertainment line the busy city streets. For PB-hunters it offers a fast and relatively flat course, for those looking for an incredible experience soaking in the sights and taking part in the country’s proud sports and athletic culture, it’s a bucket list race up there with some of the biggest around the world.

Highlights include excellent organization, friendly people and a massive selection of portable toilets. The best bit: The finish line is in the same place as the marathon, so expect major crowds welcoming you back. Difficulty: Flat — check route on MapMyRun.

A lesser-known half marathon that benefits from that fact by being a beautiful and more intimate race around one of Finland’s most impressive historical cities. A relatively flat race, the Helsinki Half takes a route that covers the bulk of the cities main area. The event saw just under 3, participants take on the race, a figure that means that although it’s a relatively large scale event, it never feels too busy or cramped like many other half marathons.

Note that although the majority is flight, there is a bit of climb as you come into the last few kilometres. So make sure you save a bit of energy left for the last push. Difficulty: Undulating — check route. Picking our favourite road marathon in the UK was never going to be easy, but when you’re competing with some of the most beautiful locations in the world there’s only one that cuts the mustard for us: Bristol. If ever there was a place in the UK designed for an amazing half marathon it’s Bristol.

Not only do you have one of the most architectural pleasing city centres but you also have heaps of scenery ranging from the incredible Avon Gorge to the industrial treat that is the Clifton Suspension Bridge. The route takes in the best the city has to offer, from city streets and riverside bars to hilltop woodland — something that means it’s far from the flattest half marathon you’re likely to find.

When you’ve got a city that looks this good, though, it’s worth it. Difficulty: Mostly flat — check route on MapMyRun. It’s the perfect event for runners who want to experience the staggering crowds of the New York marathon without the distance. Starting off in Prospect Park, the course takes runners through the cheering Brooklyn crowds before heading over Brooklyn Bridge and into Manhattan. From there the route follows the east side of the island until moving into the centre for a final incredible loop around Central Park.

It may not be the toughest race in the list, but there is a fair amount of incline across the course, so make sure to hit some hill training before the big day. Entrance fee: Only charity spots still available. Difficulty: Flat and fast — check route on Strava. The fact that the race is the only private event in Las Vegas allowed to take over the strip makes the whole thing a big deal.

Hula dancers, Taiko drum troupes, a beautiful mountain backdrop and a finish that ends on one of the most impressive coastlines in the world. Starting in Poipu in the early hours, runners watch the sunrise as the route follows the famous beaches, volcanoes and tropical rainforests that lead deeper into the island, before heading through the impressive tunnel of trees and back to the coastline. Luckily the last half of the race is all downhill so you can enjoy the final push as you stare longingly at the beach in front of you.

Difficulty: Hilly and hot — check route on Map My Run. Aside from the fact that you get to run over and around some of the most impressive US scenery, you’ll find in a road marathon, the San Fransisco Half has one major aspect that you don’t see very often — you get to choose which half of the marathon course you want to run. We know you’re thinking that’s pretty cool — so are we.

The upshot of the rather unique format means that you can decide which section of the route would be most enjoyable. The first half is flatter and takes place largely along the bay whilst the second half is hillier and covers more of the city streets — plus you get to finish with all of the marathon runners.

You can even cover off the whole marathon over two years if you want to get the full experience without having to cover the distance in one go. The only difference is that you won’t get to run across the Golden Gate bridge unless you opt for the full distance.

You’ll still get to see it though. Difficulty: Hilly and often windy — check first half route on Strava check second half route on Strava. But getting tipsy whilst running isn’t the only reason these races exist — vineyards tend to be found in some of the world’s most beautiful locations and offer the perfect setting for a mass participation event. Chase the sunset over The Watchman, a famous peak in Zion , while soaking in vibrant red cliffs surrounding the trail.

This race has sold out the last 6 years, so sign up early! S has to offer. Over the course of The course begins in the Boise foothills and ends at Aldape Summit. Age group winners even take home Vermont maple syrup and cheese as prizes. The post-race party includes a catered spread of local food and beverages. Runners can also enjoy this sunlit filled day in the Last Frontier with fantastic views of Denali on a clear day and running along forested trails with endless mountain views.

Missoula hosts 4, runners on this rural, point-to-point race that travels through the countryside with views of the rockies, along the glistening Bitterroot River and finishes in downtown Missoula, a town with a strong western heritage. Be prepared for elevation—this race starts at 3, feet above sea level. The run begins at Cuvaison Estate Wines and ends with tasting in Sonoma Plaza to celebrate what your legs can do. This is a point-to-point course starting in Snowmass Village and finishes in Aspen.

There are major elevation changes on backcountry trails, so this is typically for trail runners looking for a heft challenge. But the brilliant colors of fall may keep you motivated. Runners can enjoy impressive seaside, forest and mountain views, showcasing the epic trifecta that makes the Pacific Northwest so special.

 
 

Best half marathon destinations.15 of the Best Half-Marathons in the World

 

Quite possibly the fanciest Just think of all the baguettes, macarons and fromage waiting for you at the finish line. The acres of rolling vineyard hills are known for producing some of the best handcrafted bottles of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

The feeling is intoxicating as you run through lush blocks of green and pass local farms filled with horses, cows, pigs, sheep and goats, shepherding you to the finish. Your final reward: Post-race libations straight from wine country you trotted. Location: Vancouver, Canada Date: August 12, A weekend full of running, music and sun salutations? Sign us up! This Lululemon-sponsored race is one big wellness party. The fete kicks off with an expo, where runners can get their hair braided or beards trimmed, put on temporary tattoos, relax in a meditation garden and play with aromatherapy kits.

Race day is just as unexpected, with runners treated to an hour-long yoga session to help shake out the nerves. Did we mention that participants also get dibs on discounted active wear from Lululemon?

Oh Canada, here we come! The winding roads lead to the riverbed gorge Siq al-Barid, whereas those running the full marathon will circle the hilltop Al Musirh. Buckle up for major uphill climbs across mountain ridges.

The course is a true test of endurance and agility for either distance, but the wondrous views will make it one big adventure. From turquoise lakes to snow-capped Andes mountains and pristine forests, Torres del Paine has some of the most breathtaking views and unique landscapes. The rolling course is looped, running along the coastline on both sides of the island.

Runners finish next to the picturesque, pastel-colored buildings along the waterfront in downtown Hamilton. Ambitious participants who want to spend less time lounging by the beach can tackle the Bermuda Triangle Half Challenge, finishing the road mile, the 10K, and the half marathon in three consecutive days, yielding them four total medals. The Steamboat Half Marathon is a point-to-point, mostly downhill race at altitude 6, feet at the starting line.

The route parallels the Elk River—a popular whitewater rafting destination—before finishing in downtown Steamboat Springs. After the race, you can soak sore muscles at the Old Town Hot Springs; the pools of naturally warm mineral water are within walking distance of the finish line. Why Run It: Take a trip back through time with this flat, fast race in picturesque New England countryside, complete with farms, hills, rivers, horses and a tour through Woodstock. Usually about a dozen or so bands play a variety of tunes along the route to serenade runners.

Register Why Run It: Celebrate the longest day of the year with a After the run, head to downtown Anchorage for an epic summer solstice festival with live music, food trucks, beer gardens, corn hole, rock climbing, chalk art classes, and more.

Nine miles of the Bar Harbor Half Marathon run on that still-existing system of hard-packed trails. The hilly course starts in the small, picturesque fishing town of Bar Harbor, then cuts into the National Park. Dense forest engulfs runners as they cross several old granite bridges before looping back to town. The half marathon is held in the late afternoon though the start time is subject to change , compressing the Las Vegas experience into The party starts even before runners head out, with a prerace concert the night before featuring a well-known headliner— Kesha took the stage in Register Why Run It: Kiawah, a barrier island located 25 miles southwest of Charleston on the Atlantic coast, is home to maritime forests, marshes, and grand homes.

Peep the stunning scenery as you tackle this race that charts through island community, starting and ending in East Beach Village. Need another reason? Need still one more reason? Vermont maple syrup and cheese are the prizes for the top finishers! More information on Covered Bridges Half Marathon.

Surrounding Attractions : beaches, jungle, resorts, outdoor opportunities. Best For : island lovers, tropical adventurers, beachers. As stunningly beautiful as this Hawaiian favorite is, be ready for some potentially intense heat and humidity! Best For : National Park lovers, outdoor sight-see-ers and appreciators, mountaineers, rugged runners, uphillers and high elevation gainers.

Those that have run the Glacier Half Marathon will staunchly argue that it is the most jaw droppingly scenic best half marathon course in the USA! And they have good reason to say so. But the reward and subsequent bragging rights will be worth it! More information on the Glacier Half Marathon. Best For : high energy, big city, night runners, night lifers. This half marathon is amped as high as it possibly gets on race energy, and fully embodies the surrounding Vegas vibe!

This race is so big, it actually shuts down the iconic Las Vegas Strip while it is being run! Best For : city lovers, high energy, big crowds, cowboy and history buffs.

Everything is bigger in Texas, so why not run the biggest half marathon event to be held in the Lone Star State? More information on the Cowtown Half Marathon. Best For : National Parkers, outdoor lovers, red rock junkies. Nothing says Utah quite like Zion National Park! It is truly a treat to visit this gem, but it is even better to run through it!

Interested in other National Park half marathons? Check out the whole National Park series organized by Vacation Races! More information on the Zion Half Marathon. Best For : hill runners, city lovers, high energy, historical appreciators, waterfront runners. Most importantly, the chance to actually run across the Golden Gate Bridge as part of the course.

As well as running through San Francisco neighborhoods, the Embarcadero waterfront, Mission Street, and views of the Bay! This is a sentimental favorite of mine, as my first half marathon took place in San Francisco over a decade ago! More information on the San Francisco Half Marathon.

Best For : ocean and beachers, outdoor appreciators. Just outside of San Diego lies the rugged seaside community of La Jolla, the perfect setting for this US half marathon! This course epitomizes the best of oceanside California, which is simply never a bad backdrop to have while running! More information on the La Jolla Half Marathon. Surrounding Attractions : California coastline, beach towns, coastal state parks, hiking and camping. Best For : beach, coastline, and ocean lovers.

One more beachy Californian just for good measure! Highlighting its best quality, this course is almost entirely run along the coast, with shimmering ocean views to guide you over those 13 miles! More information on the Big Sur Half Marathon. There you have it! The 26 best half marathons in the USA, encompassing every aspect of long distance running that a runner could want! Whether you are a big city or small town runner, mountain or ocean viewer, or a combination in between, committing to training for and running a half marathon in any of these destinations will be a challenge you never regret taking on!

Now that you know where running can take you, are you ready to get started training? I am a hiker, backpacker, camper, state highpointer, long distance runner, cyclist, kayaker, tower runner, and avid pursuer of new destinations that allow me to interact with them in an active way!

If you are looking for a new kind of vacation, active travel is your answer! Your running plan will only work for you if you understand it! The Half Marathon can be a grueling, cramp inducing, blister forming, out of breath, sweat fest of a race…. A lot of times, it comes down…. It is impossible to discuss responsible hiking these days without addressing the continuing improvements in the world of hiking….

There are two ways to develop a foolproof hiking checklist: from a series of carefully planned and successfully executed…. For me, running uphill is the proverbial elephant in the room. Your email address will not be published. I want to hear more! Sign me up for the newsletter! Skip to content.

 

– 11 Best (and Most Scenic) Half Marathons in the U.S.

 
Trust us, these 50 half-marathons listed in alphabetical order by state are well worth the training and registration fees. Turkey 5. Join Active or Sign In. Slovenia 5. According to Running USA , 1. Sao Tome and Principe 1.

 
 

Best half marathon destinations –

 
 
United States Expand child menu Expand. Free cancellations on most hotels when you book now and stay later. So, without further ado, here are the most stunning half marathons in the world.