Fall is easily the best season for running — cooler temperatures transform your stride from summer survival mode into a smooth, efficient rhythm, and the changing season make every running route feel like eye candy.
Plus, the timing couldn’t be better as your fitness is peak from months of summer base building.
As an avid runner and author of Marathoner: What to Expect When Training for and Running a Marathon, I’ve logged countless race miles and researched even more events to bring you these standout picks. In my opinion, the best fall half marathons are ones that deliver epic autumn views and/or capitalize on that cool fall breeze across 13.1 miles.
From fast, flat routes perfect for chasing that PR to scenic trails showcasing peak foliage, fall half marathons cater to every running goal. Ready to discover races that deliver all the autumn magic without the big-event stress? Here are 30 exceptional fall half marathons that deserve a spot on your calendar.
Calendar: Best Fall Half Marathons
- Marquette Half Marathon on September 5, 2026
- Kaua‘i Half Marathon on September 6, 2026
- Amish Country Half Marathon on September 12, 2026
- Bozeman Half Marathon on September 13, 2026
- City of Lakes Half Marathon on September 13, 2026
- Golden Leaf Half Marathon on September 26, 2026
- Hamptons Half Marathon on September 26, 2026
- Clarence DeMar Half Marathon on September 27, 2026
- Urban Cow Half Marathon on September 27, 2026
- Boulderthon on September 27, 2026
- Arches Half Marathon on October 3, 2026
- St. George Mini Marathon on October 3, 2026
- Smuttynose Rockfest Half Marathon on October 4, 2026
- Portland Half Marathon on October 4, 2026
- Staten Island Half Marathon on October 11, 2026
- Baltimore Half Marathon on October 17, 2026
- Duke City Half Marathon on October 18, 2026
- Bridge and a Slice Half Marathon on October 19, 2026
- Las Vegas Half Marathon on October 2026 (exact date TBD)
- Women’s Epic Road Half Marathon on October 24, 2026
- Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon on October 25, 2026
- Raleigh City of Oaks Half Marathon on November 1, 2026
- CNO Financial Indianapolis Monumental Half Marathon on November 7, 2026
- Monterey Bay Half Marathon on November 8, 2026
- Temecula Half Marathon on November 8, 2026
- CarMax Richmond Half Marathon on November 14, 2026
- St. Pete Run Fest Half Marathon on November 15, 2026
- Williams Route 66 Half Marathon on November 22, 2026
- Palmetto Peach Half Marathon on November 28, 2026
- Seattle Half Marathon on November 29, 2026
Marquette Half Marathon
- When: September 5, 2026
- Where: Marquette, MI
First off, if you’ve never been to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, then you have failed yourself as a traveler. A magical place wedged between Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, the UP (as Michiganders call it) is a paradise of forests, rivers, waterfalls, and shoreline. Marquette, an old harbor town built to ship iron ore, is the UP’s largest city with a quaint downtown. Runners will start 13.1 miles outside of town and race through the remote natural landscape before finishing along Lake Superior. Cliff dive into the water post-race or cruise around looking at the fall foliage. Just make sure you don’t leave without trying a pasty and a Faygo pop.
Read More about the Marquette Half Marathon
Kaua‘i Half Marathon
- When: September 6, 2026
- Where: Poipu, HI
While Hawaii certainly gets plenty of attention for its races (the Honolulu Marathon is one of the largest in the US), Kauai’s half marathon is often overshadowed by those of Maui, the Big Island, and Honolulu. Perhaps that’s because Kauai’s race is more of a mountain race than a beach race, and is therefore quite a bit more difficult. But if the challenge of running up a volcano doesn’t scare you, the views are well worth it as it’s one of the most scenic half marathons in the US. Plus, you still finish at the beach, so you can tumble into the Pacific to cool off at the end if you need to.
Read More about the Kaua‘i Half Marathon
Amish Country Half Marathon
- When: September 12, 2026
- Where: Millersburg, OH
There’s a belt of land that extends from Indiana through central Ohio and across Pennsylvania that is known as “Amish country” because of the relatively large population of Amish in those regions. To celebrate that rich cultural heritage (and their excellent food), a half marathon is run each fall in Ohio, with runners cruising through the rolling hills of central Ohio and past the farms of the Amish. While the course certainly offers some stunning views of farmland, the real draw is the buffet of hot buttered noodles that await runners at the finish.
Read More about the Amish Country Half Marathon
Bozeman Half Marathon
- When: September 13, 2026
- Where: Bozeman, MT
If you’re looking to get off the grid, there’s no place quite like Montana. It’s the 4th largest state in terms of area, but near the bottom of the list based on population. But what Bozeman may lack in crowds, it makes up for in natural splendor. The Bozeman Half starts up in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and descends 13 miles down into town. That means you not only get some incredible views overlooking Bozeman, but you also get a nice, speedy, downhill race. If you’re looking for a PR, you can’t do much better. You just might have a little trouble booking direct flights there.
Read More about the Bozeman Half Marathon
City of Lakes Half Marathon
- When: September 13, 2026
- Where: Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis is known as the “city of lakes” and after running this half marathon, it will be easy to see why. Run in southern Minneapolis every September, the half marathon sends runners around two of the city’s picturesque lakes, Lake Harriet and Bde Maka Ska (Dakota for “lake white earth”). The loop course sends runners around both lakes twice, with the shoreline providing a flat and fast half marathon if you’re looking for a PR. This is a nice lowkey alternative to the Twin Cities Half Marathon which is much larger.
Read More about the City of Lakes Half Marathon
Golden Leaf Half Marathon
- When: September 26, 2026
- Where: Aspen, CO
Most fall half marathons promise decent foliage, but the Golden Leaf Half Marathon may deliver more than you can handle. In September, thousands of aspen trees turn fire gold, and it’s truly a sight to behold. Luckily, this course lets you really focus on the scenery. It starts at 8,000 feet in Snowmass Village but follows a mostly-downhill route and finishes in downtown Aspen. You’ll feel the thin air for sure, but the real challenge will be keeping your eyes on the road instead of gawking at the iconic Maroon Bells (honestly, it’s worth losing that PR to stop for a photo).
Read More about the Golden Leaf Half Marathon
Hamptons Half Marathon
- When: September 26, 2026
- Where: Southampton, NY
The New York City races certainly suck up a lot of the oxygen when discussing the best races, but there’s a reason why New Yorkers all flee to the Hamptons in the summer, and that’s because it’s absolutely gorgeous and way more breezy. The Hamptons hosts a fall half marathon that is a nice alternative to the NYC races that require complicated lotteries and qualification standards to get into. Instead, just sign up, take the LIRR out to the beachy resort town, and jog past some of the most impressive mansions in the world. Finish with a glass of rose and some oysters.
Read More about the Hamptons Half Marathon
Clarence DeMar Half Marathon
- When: September 27, 2026
- Where: Keene, NH
If you’re looking for fall foliage, this New Hampshire half marathon might be a great option for you. Named in honor of Clarence DeMar, seven-time winner of the Boston Marathon, who ran, hiked, and hitchhiked his way from Boston to Keene every week to both keep a job teaching printing and history at a Keene High School as well as finish a master’s degree at Boston College. The race is renowned for its fall foliage and citywide support of the runners, making it one of the best New England half marathons.
Read More about the Clarence DeMar Half Marathon
Urban Cow Half Marathon
- When: September 27, 2026
- Where: Sacramento, CA
If you love to mooooooove, and want a California race with low steaks, then why not sign up for this legen-dairy race? (Okay I’m sorry. I’m milking these cow puns to much.) Back in the day, snooty San Franciscans called the state’s capital a “cow town” and race organizers took the nickname and ran with it (THESE PUNS!) Crowds line the course, ringing cow bells (what else?) and the medal is shaped like one as well. Plus, if you sign up with a group of more than 15, you’re registered as a “herd” that gets their own private port-o-john and other special perks. Here’s your opportunity to grab the bull by the horns. (Too much? Sorry if I butchered that.)
Read More about the Urban Cow Half Marathon
Boulderthon
- When: September 27, 2026
- Where: Boulder, CO
Every year, Boulder ranks as one of the top places to live in the U.S. — and it’s easily one of the best places to run, too. The Boulderthon race begins at the Boulder Reservoir, traverses the iconic and scenic Flatirons, and finishes on the streets of historic Pearl Street Mall. It’s among our top picks for the most beautiful half marathons in the country, and races with the best finish line parties. The best part: Despite running at high altitude (Boulder sits at over 5,000 feet of elevation), the race is mostly flat.
Read More about the Boulderthon
Arches Half Marathon
- When: October 3, 2026
- Where: Moab, UT
As if running through one of America’s most iconic national parks wasn’t enough of a dream, this race offers you desert dawn views in perfect November weather. The Arches Half starts at 8:00 am and has you running on paved park roads past world-famous formations like Balanced Rock and Fiery Furnace, with red sandstone arches framing every mile. The course is rolling with some challenging climbs, but the scenery makes you forget about your legs burning. Keep in mind the race stays small to protect the park, so registration fills up fast.
Read More about the Arches Half Marathon
St. George Mini Marathon
- When: October 3, 2026
- Where: St. George, UT
In the southwest corner of Utah, in between Zion, Las Vegas, and the Grand Canyon, sits St. George, Utah. This means that the Mini Marathon (what a fun way to brand a fall half marathons) is the perfect addition to your hiking/gambling vacation. Like the Bozeman Half, it starts in the hills and is almost entirely downhill, making it a nice race for first-timers or those who aren’t looking to spend two hours plodding uphill. The desert/mountain views are stunning, and the sunrise is majestic.
Read More about the St. George Mini Marathon
Smuttynose Rockfest Half Marathon
- When: October 4, 2026
- Where: Hampton, NH
Smuttynose stands head and shoulders above other races when it comes to New England fall half marathons. Hampton is a gorgeously scenic coastal New Hampshire town, the race provides lobster rolls and clam chowder for race finishers, and the finisher party is thrown alongside local craft beer maker – Smuttynose Brewing. It’s hard to get more New England than this.
Read More about the Smuttynose Rockfest Half Marathon
Portland Half Marathon
- When: October 4, 2026
- Where: Portland, OR
The Portland Half Marathon has been dubbed “The Best Race in October” by Runner’s World. Mostly flat with a few hilly stretches, the course traverses the neighborhoods surrounding the Willamette River. Runners remark that this is one of the best-organized races they’ve ever run and offers Oregon’s capital city’s best running tour.
Read More about the Portland Half Marathon
Staten Island Half Marathon
- When: October 11, 2026
- Where: Staten Island, NY
Staten Island may be the butt of plenty of jokes, but at the end of the day, those living in the New York borough are getting the last laugh. That’s because Staten Island boasts some of the most spectacular views in all of New York and those are on display in their half marathon. The race starts and ends conveniently near the ferry station, with an out-and-back course that leads out along the island’s eastern coast. Catching the sunrise from the Staten Island Ferry is also a New York experience you’ll never forget.
Read More about the Staten Island Half Marathon
Baltimore Half Marathon
- When: October 17, 2026
- Where: Baltimore, MD
Good morning, Baltimore! It’s time to run the half! While I ran this race with a concussion (ill-advised), I would still wholeheartedly recommend it, and the course, which loops the city starting and ending at the famed Inner Harbor, is a fun one. In a unique move, the Baltimore Half also starts at the 13-mile marker of the full marathon, which is sort of hellish for the full runners who now have fresh runners zooming by them, but provides an epic group finish. All finishers receive a medal shaped like a crab, and who doesn’t want one of those?
Read More about the Baltimore Half Marathon
Duke City Half Marathon
- When: October 18, 2026
- Where: Albuquerque, NM
Albuquerque, New Mexico was named after a Spanish Duke and has since earned the name “Duke City.” The half marathon course is flat and fast and showcases New Mexico’s largest city. The course traverses the Sandia Mountains, the Rio Grande, and the University of New Mexico campus. The course is at 5,000 feet above sea level, so be prepared to race at elevation.
Read More about the Duke City Half Marathon
Bridge and a Slice Half Marathon
- When: October 19, 2026
- Where: New York, NY
November’s big marathon may get all the hype in NYC, but the Bridge and a Slice Half Marathon is perhaps even more fun. Starting in Astoria, you’ll head over the Queensboro Bridge and around Central Park, before downing a slice of pizza and heading back. An added wrinkle: participants can bike, rollerblade (or even unicycle) in addition to running. The terrain is challenging, the mid-race snack is delicious, and the crowd is fun.
Read More about the Bridge and a Slice Half Marathon
Las Vegas Half Marathon
- When: October 2026 (exact date TBD)
- Where: Las Vegas, NV
There are few landmark running events in Nevada, but despite being only a few years old, the Las Vegas Half Marathon is standing out. Las Vegas’s nickname “Sin City” doesn’t account for the creative community and neighborhoods that surround the Strip. The Las Vegas Half Marathon feels more authentic to roots with a course through Downtown Summerlin, Symphony Park, 18b Arts District, Las Vegas Boulevard, and an exciting finish at Fremont Street Experience. You won’t just get to see the strip, but the city as a whole.
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Women’s Epic Road Half Marathon
- When: October 24, 2026
- Where: Ogden, UT
A women-only race in one of the most beautiful cities out West and in peak fall colors! What could be better? The Women’s Epic Half Marathon introduced a road race in 2025 with a course that winds runners through the streets of Ogden, loops around Big D Sports Park, and returns back down for a stadium finish. While the trail race (pictured above) has you drop over 2,000 feet, the road race is much more knee-friendly with just 500 feet of descent and ascent over 13.1 miles. In October, you’ll have ridiculously beautiful views of the Wasatch mountains coated in yellow Aspens to backdrop every mile. If you’ve never run a women-only race before, know it’s a real treat of an experience. And with this race, you can all celebrate at the finish line with live music, local food vendors, and maybe new running buddies.
Read More about the Women’s Epic Road Half Marathon
Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon
- When: October 25, 2026
- Where: Walt Disney World Resort, FL
The Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon in November is perfect for runners looking to set their record on a fast and flat half marathon or beginners who wants the distraction of the Magic Kingdom to them finish 13.1 miles. The course takes you through the Disney World theme parks, where you’ll enjoy running past iconic landmarks like Epcot and Cinderella’s Castle. And while the entertainment, cheering crowds, and Disney characters along the route may seem like the draw, we love the food and wine festival at the Epcot Center finish line.
Read More about the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon
Raleigh City of Oaks Half Marathon
- When: November 1, 2026
- Where: Raleigh, NC
The Carolinas have plenty of fall half marathons on their roster, and many of them involve running along the states’ impressive coastline. Raleigh is delivering something different. The race through North Carolina’s capital winds along the city’s tree-lined streets, showcasing what a trendy place it is. With local craft breweries sponsoring and plenty of people cheering from their front lawns, the race has a small-town feel, even though the Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill area is anything but small. Raleigh is jam-packed with great brunch locales as well, so get ravenous on your run and then chow down on soul food when you’re done.
Read More about the Raleigh City of Oaks Half Marathon
CNO Financial Indianapolis Monumental Half Marathon
- When: November 7, 2026
- Where: Indianapolis, IN
If there is a city in America that is underrated, it is Indianapolis. I would defy non-Hoosiers to state a single thing about the city aside from that the Indy 500 happens there. But as it turns out, Indy is lowkey cool. It’s the 15th most populous city in the US (who knew!) and way bigger than Milwaukee, Detroit, and Cleveland. That means they’ve got good food, cool museums, and a great beer scene. Plus Indiana is FLAT FLAT FLAT so the race is ideal for those in search of a PR. Why not visit before everyone catches on?
Read More about the CNO Financial Indianapolis Monumental Half Marathon
Monterey Bay Half Marathon
- When: November 8, 2026
- Where: Monterey, CA
For their sheer beauty, the Big Sur Marathon Series is hard to beat. Formerly known as the Big Sur Half Marathon at Monterey Bay, this race course floats along the rocky coastline of the Pacific Ocean with floating seagulls and an ocean breeze. The race is limited to only 9,000 entrants and it sells out quickly. If you haven’t had any luck with the Big Sur Marathon, and you’re more of a half marathon runner anyway, this should be a priority for you this year.
Read More about the Monterey Bay Half Marathon
Temecula Half Marathon
- When: November 8, 2026
- Where: Temecula, CA
Located southwest of Los Angeles, the Temecula Valley is one of southern California’s most gorgeous locales and boasts some of the state’s best wine. The Temecula Half Marathon’s course sends runners over the rolling hills of the region, through local vineyards and with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. As with any good wine region race, this half ends with plenty of wine and music to celebrate. Cheers!
Read More about the Temecula Half Marathon
CarMax Richmond Half Marathon
- When: November 14, 2026
- Where: Richmond, VA
Deemed “America’s Friendliest Marathon,” the Richmond Half Marathon stands as our strong pick for the best east coast fall half marathon when compared against the likes of Philadelphia and New York. The crowds are boisterous, the runners are compassionate, the course is approachable, it’s everything someone could want in a fall racing experience.
Read More about the CarMax Richmond Half Marathon
St. Pete Run Fest Half Marathon
- When: November 15, 2026
- Where: St. Petersburg, FL
The St. Pete Run Fest has the unenviable pressure of its near proximity to Disney World and its many highly attended halves. But if you’re looking for a race that doesn’t start at 5am, is easier to enter, and includes some shoreline running, than St. Pete is the better choice. Known for being a bit artsier than most of Florida, St. Petersburg has plenty of culture to offer, and its finisher festival puts that on display with local bands, restaurants, and breweries dishing out what they do best. ALSO finishers get bloody marys. I have not seen many other halves passing those out, but maybe they should.
Read More about the St. Pete Run Fest Half Marathon
Williams Route 66 Half Marathon
- When: November 22, 2026
- Where: Tulsa, OK
Don’t sleep on Tulsa. It’s an understated art haven with the largest concentration of Art Deco architecture outside of Miami. And the weekend before Thanksgiving, you can celebrate one of its other major draws: Running the actual historic highway that sparked countless American road trip dreams. In the Route 66 Half, you’ll run through some of Tulsa’s most iconic neighborhoods, including the vibrant Brady Arts District and along the Arkansas River, with plenty of Route 66 memorabilia and vintage car displays to keep things interesting. The course is mostly flat with gentle rolling hills, making it perfect for first-timers or anyone chasing a PR. Plus, the fall timing means you’ll avoid Oklahoma’s brutal summer heat while still getting those perfect running temperatures.
Read More about the Williams Route 66 Half Marathon
Palmetto Peach Half Marathon
- When: November 28, 2026
- Where: North Augusta, SC
If this race’s name is causing a bit of a brain jumble for you, that’s because it’s mixing the state nicknames of South Carolina (“The Palmetto State”) and Georgia (“The Peach State”), because this race goes through both. The city of Augusta, Georgia sits along the South Carolina state line and this race, which starts and ends in SC, sends runners over the Savannah River into Georgia before a return to the Palmetto side. The races comes with a hefty portion of southern charm as runners explore two states over 13.1 miles. Celebrate with some soulfood after the fact.
Read More about the Palmetto Peach Half Marathon
Seattle Half Marathon
- When: November 29, 2026
- Where: Seattle, WA
Sneaking in right before the winter cutoff, the Seattle Half is run each year on Thanksgiving weekend. While on first blush, that might not seem like a great time to run a half, it does mean you won’t have to take off any days from work to make the trip. Plus you can carb load with leftover turkey sandwiches and pumpkin pie. Go to the original Starbucks, take a boat tour of the bay, and get some great finisher pics with your medal and the Space Needle. You can skip out on Grandma’s house for one year and check out this half instead.
