The month of October is quickly approaching, and with it comes the return of a tradition much loved by runners everywhere: the half marathon. These autumn events offer a challenging combination of breathtaking scenery, changing leaves, and the excitement of chasing personal records. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, there's a race in October that's the perfect fit for you.
November Half Marathons
While October may be the peak time for half marathons in the United States, there are still several opportunities to participate in these popular events throughout the month of November. So, mark your calendars and get ready to lace up your sneakers for a run through some of the most beautiful places in the country.
Race Calendar
A comprehensive list of upcoming October half marathons, including detailed information such as location, date, and registration requirements, can be found on the official race calendar. Whether you're looking for a local race close to home or an out-of-town adventure, the race calendar will help you find the perfect event to challenge yourself and enjoy the fall foliage.
Nashville, TN – October 1, 2024
The iconic Music City Half Marathon has become a seasonal staple for runners in the Southeast. With a course that winds through the bustling streets of downtown Nashville and its surrounding countryside, this race offers a unique mix of city hustle and nature beauty.
Chadron, NE – October 1, 2024
Often overshadowed by its more famous cousin in Nebraska, the Chadron Half Marathon is a hidden gem that provides runners with a quiet, rural experience amidst the rolling hills and stunning landscape of the Sandhills region.
Chillicothe, OH – October 1, 2024
Held in the heart of fall, the Chillicothe Half Marathon is a charming community event that celebrates the beauty of the fall season. The race starts and finishes in beautiful downtown Chillicothe, allowing runners to experience the vibrant culture and history of this historic town.
Sundance, WY – October 2, 2024
Set against the backdrop of the majestic Teton Range, the Sundance Half Marathon is a challenging trek that offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. This race is a favorite among runners who enjoy the solitude of nature and the camaraderie of fellow participants.
Kanab, UT – October 3-5, 2024
Named after the famous Utah national park, the Kanab Half Marathon takes runners on a breathtaking journey through the majestic red rock landscapes of Southern Utah. This race is perfect for those who want to experience the unique desert beauty of the area and challenge themselves with a challenging course.
Belle Fourche, SD – October 3, 2024
Held in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota, the Belle Fourche Half Marathon is a unique event that offers runners a choice of two starting points. The race starts in Belle Fourche and continues to Hillcity, providing runners with two entirely different race experiences.
Amman, Jordan – October 4, 2024
Ideal for runners looking to experience a unique cultural event, the Amman Half Marathon in Jordan is a scenic journey through the ancient city of Petra. This race is set in the stunning Jordanian desert, where runners will enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
St. George, UT – October 4-5, 2024
A popular bucket-list destination, the St. George Half Marathon boasts incredible panoramic views of the Red Rock Mountains. The race starts and finishes near the historic town of St. George, providing runners with a glimpse into the colorful history and culture of this charming town.
Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand – October 5, 2024
New Zealand's highest half marathon takes runners on a chilly journey through the alpine landscape of Mount Cook National Park. This race is ideal for experienced runners who are looking to tackle a challenging course and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of New Zealand's highest peak.
Brooklyn, NY – October 5, 2024
One of the most picturesque courses in the US, the Brooklyn Half Marathon winds through the streets of Brooklyn and its neighboring neighborhoods. The race starts and finishes in Brooklyn Bridge Park, providing runners with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River.
Hampton, VA – October 5-6, 2024
This race is known for its challenging climbs and fast, technical descents. The Hampton Half Marathon offers runners a chance to experience the beauty of Virginia's Eastern Shenandoah Valley and test their endurance with a demanding 13.1 miles.
Green Bay, WI – October 5, 2024
Held in the heart of Wisconsin, the Green Bay Half Marathon is a popular event that attracts runners from all over the region. The race starts near the famous Lambeau Field, providing runners with a unique experience with the legendary football stadium.
Blue Ridge, GA – October 5, 2024
Georgia's Blue Ridge Half Marathon is a stunningly beautiful event that takes runners on a journey through the Blue Ridge Mountains. The race starts in the small town of Clayton, Georgia and ends in the small town of Young Harris, offering runners a taste of southern hospitality and breathtaking views of the mountain landscape.
Shippen, PA – October 5, 2024
Held in the scenic Pocono Mountains, the Shippen Half Marathon offers a unique blend of forest trails, open fields, and the famous Lehigh Gorge. This race is perfect for runners who enjoy a mix of natural terrain and challenging climbs.
Evansville, IN – October 5, 2024
The Evansville Half Marathon is a smaller, more intimate event that brings runners together for a common goal. The race starts and finishes in historic downtown Evansville, allowing runners to experience the vibrant culture and history of this Midwestern city.
Regina, Canada – October 5, 2024
This event, held in the province of Saskatchewan in Canada, offers runners a chance to experience a unique Canadian landscape. The race starts and finishes near the city of Regina, providing runners with incredible views of the surrounding prairies and the majestic Canadian Shield.
Finish Line Reviews
Don't just take our word for it; hear what our runners have to say about their experiences at these October half marathons. From the camaraderie at the finish line to the breathtaking scenery along the route, these reviews will give you a real sense of what participating in these events is all about.
Registration and Preparation
Preparing for a half marathon is a significant commitment. Whether you're training for your first event or training for your tenth, proper training plans, nutrition, and racing strategies are crucial. Whether you're using a structured training plan, running intervals, or alternating weekends for hill workouts, the key is consistency and dedication to your training.
##October half marathons offer something for everyone, whether you're an experienced runner or just starting out. Whether you're looking for a scenic course through the countryside or a challenging race against some of the finest runners in the world, there's a race in October that's right for you. Don't miss out on the opportunity to participate in one of these beloved events and experience the thrill of the fall running season firsthand.
