In case you’re trying to PR your subsequent half then we’ve rounded up an inventory of the quickest half marathons to assist make it attainable. We nearly stated quickest half marathons within the US, however then snuck in Toronto, so okay North America.
What contributes to a quick half marathon course?
- Cooler climate
- Flat or web downhill
- Much less crowded
- Properly-executed
Keep in mind that climate isn’t assured and a steep downhill course requires additional knee energy! It’s not an computerized PR simply because it sounds simpler. Checkout our 7 Suggestions For Downhill Working to degree up your probabilities of a fantastic race day.
10 Quickest Half Marathons
Let’s get all the way down to it! After many years of teaching runners, asking for suggestions by way of our weekly on-line polls and analysis, we’ve narrowed the checklist down to those races.
Naples Half Marathon
Date: January 18th, 2026
Location: Naples, FL, USA
Sort: Loop
Profile: Quick and Flat
Some of the notable issues about this race is that because it winds by way of neighborhoods within the city of Naples, it has a zero-foot elevation achieve.
The course is well-organized and USATF-certified, which means that it is possible for you to to belief your instances and the space as measured.
The climate in January in Florida is usually delicate, although runners should still need to account for some humidity or ocean breezes through the beachfront parts of the course.
The route is scenic, because it consists of city and waterfront views, however the terrain is paved and even, with out surprises like uneven spots or elevation adjustments.
James 0802 actually loved his expertise there:
I used to be scheduled to do that race final yr, however needed to defer attributable to damage. (Very simple to defer.) This yr we had been threatened by a storm entrance blowing by way of but it surely cleared simply earlier than the beginning.
Fortunately a lot of the parking was in coated garages very close to the beginning line. The race organizers gave us good advance discover of the potential for a delay attributable to lightning however none materialized.
The race course is fully residential by way of some posh Naples neighborhoods. Hydration stations (Gatorade and water) and porta potties had been plentiful. A number of out and again cul-de-sacs allowed you to repeatedly see pals each forward of and behind you.
Images glorious though not free
End line, medal, and publish race nice with free beer!
San Francisco Half Marathon
Date: Feb 1st, 2026
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
Sort: Level-to-Level
Profile: Barely Downhill (200 toes)
The San Francisco Half Marathon is generally flat all through, particularly because it winds by way of Golden Gate Park and alongside the beachfront, and there’s a slight elevation drop of round 200 toes within the second half of the race.
It’s additionally USATF-certified and is run on easy, city roads, which can give runners strong footing all through.
The setting and local weather are each nice and will increase your psychological recreation. Contemporary air off the bay must be sufficient to elevate anybody’s spirits!
Runner MHouser thought it was a fantastic alternative for his first time:
Though it was difficult attributable to excessive winds and rain, I liked this race! I energy walked and received a private greatest.
Walkers anticipate issues to be closed down by the point we end but it surely’s disappointing when that’s the case. The end line acknowledged it will be open for 4 hours so after I completed at 3:08 most issues had been already put away, this could possibly be attributable to climate however undecided.
Undoubtedly a race I wish to do once more, only a crap shoot with climate being the primary weekend in Feb. Completely liked going by way of the park and alongside the Nice Freeway.
Attractive!!!!
Mesa Half Marathon
Date: February 14th, 2026
Location: Mesa, AZ, USA
Sort: Level-to-Level
Profile: Barely Downhill (200 toes)
You may’t miss with the Arizona climate within the depths of winter all over the place else, which is without doubt one of the causes Coach Amanda typically recommends this one.
The course can also be largely flat, with a mild web elevation lack of round 200 toes from begin to end. You received’t have to fret about your pacing struggling attributable to hills or different points with terrain.
This could mean you can settle right into a rhythm that could possibly be sustained by way of the complete race.
This can be a notoriously well-organized race with paved roads, frequent support stations, and a gaggle of motivated runners. Arizona’s local weather usually cooperates as effectively.
Racer tiagayetfa says he liked it, and would return, too.
I used to be working this as a coaching run for an Extremely, so not going for a Private Finest. It was simple to seek out the busses. We stayed about 15 min away. Visitors was very backed up as we approached the exit on the freeway.
Fortunately we left early sufficient to we didn’t need to rush. Staging space was energetic, loads of portalets.
The primary few miles had been fairly steep downhill, then I consider in Mile 4, you had a pleasant climb for what appeared like a mile or so. After that it’s going to nonetheless downhill, however not steep anymore.
It a really mild downhill. It was not very scenic, as there’s not a lot to see in Mesa. The whole lot was simply brown, the homes, buildings, and so forth.
However there’s a lot close by that it makes a fantastic vacation spot race. We went to Sedona after the race and stayed there a couple of days.
By mile 19, it had gotten fairly heat however had it stayed cool, this can be a nice BQ course. If I may predict the climate, I’d come again to BQ for positive!
Even with out actually making an attempt I ran a good race. Good medal, and liked that they supplied a tank prime as a shirt possibility. I desire that.
Indy Mini
Date: Could 2nd, 2026
Location: Indianapolis, IN, USA
Sort: Loop
Profile: Quick and Flat
Many athletes carry out effectively at this quick half-marathon in Indianapolis, and there are additionally a few perks that units it other than each different half-marathon on the market.
The course is flat with no vital hills and no actual elevation adjustments, each of that are good for regular pacing and destructive splits. It’s run totally on straight, city roads, aside from a 2.5-mile loop across the Indianapolis Speedway. These speedway miles characteristic easy, banked pavement and lanes vast sufficient for all runners. It’s principally essentially the most predictable working floor possible.
The climate is usually average to chill in Indy at the moment of yr, which implies larger cardio effectivity for you, and although it is without doubt one of the largest half-marathons within the States, it’s environment friendly and well-run.
Many runners suppose the music, crowds, and power add to the expertise and supply much more motivation.
sdalessio thinks this one actually stands out:
This can be a nice race. It has a couple of areas that would use enchancment however total I extremely advocate going when you can. If you’re a sports activities fan, it’s a should.
The effectively organized and attended Expo was on the Lucas Oil Stadium the place the Colts play. It was enjoyable to stroll across the stadium and see issues. A lot of cubicles and distributors which felt just like the previous days pre Covid for an enormous race (about 18k half runners).
The race can also be proper downtown so there’s a lot to see and do pre/publish race. The race’s hospitality portal for inns was simple and environment friendly.
Race morning was a bit drizzly however loads of areas to seek out cowl. The 4 corrals did an excellent job organizing folks and the race began on time.
For essentially the most half the course surroundings was road/neighborhood however a lot of dwell music and many folks so very effectively supported.
And THEN the speedway the place they run the Indy 500 was SO superior. 2.5 miles to soak within the monitor, grandstands and simply all of it. Fortuitously we received to keep away from a lot of the excessive banked floor by working throughout roads however a protracted stretch down the end line monitor was so cool.
Frank Shorter (’72 Olympic marathon champion) was on the end line to cheer on runners . I received a selfie with him.
The remainder of the race was again to the street and residential to the end space. There was a short part by way of IU and a few college students had been out. End was a pleasant vast open run down a fairly tree lined road.
So my solely actual knock is the end line meals. Simply Kroger snacks which might be high quality for a smaller race however this was a BIG race and I assumed one thing higher would have been good. Medal and shirt had been nice!
IU Well being additionally gave away a pleasant working hat on the expo in order that was additionally a bonus and may depend as swag.
Slacker Half Marathon
Date: June twentieth, 2026
Location: Loveland, CO, USA
Sort: Level-to-Level
Profile: Downhill (2,380 toes)
This race begins within the Loveland Ski Space at an elevation of 10,880 toes. From there, runners make their method downhill by way of wetlands, waterfalls, and breathtaking views.
The trail is paved, generally traversing paved bike trails and different instances strong roads.
The race finishes in Georgetown, CO, at an elevation of 8,500 toes, and the post-race actions received’t disappoint. Whether or not freebies, craft beer, or leisure and pampering are your factor, you’re going to get your fill.
The online downhill and even terrain make for a quick race, and the climate in Colorado in June is usually temperate and cooperative as effectively.
Runner Sam Derusso agrees this was a fantastic expertise total:
This totally beautiful race was such a blast.
You begin on the ski space & it’s simply lovely. a bit chilly so put together with some layers to shed. They make gear examine tremendous simple so you possibly can toss layers proper earlier than the beginning.
TONS of port a potties. Like masses.
The mass begin was a bit bottle necked however maybe attributable to some mud on the primary a part of the trail. The views had been simply beautiful.Be prepared for some Colorado sunshine on the second half. It’s beautiful although! The altitude was a enjoyable problem for a sea degree out of towner.
The end was in a cute little city and loads of area for household to spectate. Tons to see within the city after. Good medal, good shirt and a bag you get on the finish with the whole lot. It was nice!
Additionally sizzling canine and different meals on the finish which was cool!
Beloved this race and actually loved the morning! Rather well finished on all ranges.
Jack and Jill Half Marathon
Date: July twenty fifth, 2026
Location: North Bend, WA
Sort: Level-to-Level
Profile: Downhill (1,100 toes)
The substantial lack of elevation in this race is simply one of many issues that makes it quick, however it’s a substantial issue.
One other level in pace’s favor is that the slope is mild, dropping about 80 toes per mile, so it’s not too steep. Extra of your power will go towards momentum versus altering slope angle.
The course is an previous railway mattress, so it’s hard-packed filth and gravel versus asphalt, which does make it a bit more difficult than a street race. That stated, it’s easy sufficient for normal trainers.
There are some uncommon scenic treats, like a 2-mile historic railroad tunnel, however a lot of it’s lovely forest/mountains/woods that aren’t too distracting.
Having the ability to loosen up and take within the pure world round you means with the ability to focus in your respiration and tempo somewhat than visitors, different runners, crowds, and so forth.
Runner jalderink says it’s best to positively test it out for your self.
Cons: No frills end line and it’s not simple to seek out for household/pals. Not a lot for communication previous to race.
Execs: Principally all downhill really easy going! Smaller race so household/pals can stand close to the end line to catch runners crossing. Loads of water stations.
Any con acknowledged is well overshadowed by the fantastic thing about this course!
Would extremely advocate in case you are in search of a Washington State run!
Revel Huge Cottonwood Half
Date: September 12, 2026
Location: Salt Lake Metropolis, UT, USA
Sort: Level-to-Level
Profile: Downhill (2,856 toes)
This can be a large elevation drop and it’s achieved as you descend by way of the canyons of the Wasatch Mountains, which supply quick downhills and wonderful views.
The course itself is generally street floor, which retains your footing predictable and received’t impression your pacing. That is one other one which’s USATF-certified, so all the measurements are correct as effectively.
Many runners think about this race a fantastic alternative for private information attributable to these elements, however you additionally received’t remorse the sights and sounds of the Utah mountains alongside the way in which.
IanS8810 says it’s a quick course, for positive:
The massive downhill was nice for having a quick time, it’s nonetheless value noting that the race is at elevation, and flattens out the final couple miles, so these mood the impression from the downhill, however regardless, this can be a quick race.
Properly-produced and funky afterparty, however go to bag examine quickly after ending, as that line finally received enormous.
Even be ready to waddle after this one, because the downhill will do a quantity in your legs.
I used to be extra sore than after nearly every other race I’ve finished, although I did pretty effectively in comparison with different latest races.
Chicago Half Marathon
Date: September 27, 2026
Location: Chicago, IL, USA
Sort: Loop
Profile: Quick and Flat
The Chicago Half-Marathon is thought as one of many flattest and quickest half marathons on the market. That is largely because of the very minimal elevation adjustments, lengthy interrupted stretches, and nearly no hills to problem your tempo.
The flat course means it’s nice for predictable pacing and quick splits, and the unique entry to Lake Shore Drive presents easy, high-quality pavement. You received’t discover cobblestones, damaged terrain, or tough footing on any portion of this mostly-straight course.
The Chicago climate in late September is usually average, although runners may nonetheless need to cope with some early-autumn warmth or winds off the lake.
You additionally can be hard-pressed to discover a higher managed race, and using the corral system and completely different tempo teams means you’ll possible be amongst runners with comparable instances.
joyruns would positively advocate this one:
Expo: Race shirt is lengthy sleeves, reusable bag with sun shades, Gatorade 10pk, rain poncho, protein shake combine and cowbell in it.
Members had been bused to the beginning of the race (which was 7.5 miles out), the shuttle picked runners up in Belmont or Millenium Park. Bus began transport at 4:45am.
This was too early for me as a result of the race began at 7am.
Ample water station all through the course with each water and Gatorade. Crowd help on the freeway, it was an out and again FLAT course.
Publish-race meals (water, Gatorade, pizza, bananas and chips). A HUGE finisher medal.
I extremely advocate this race. Buses shuttle members again to the placement they had been picked up at.
I’ll positively repeat this race.
Toronto Waterfront Half Marathon
Date: October 18th, 2026
Location: Toronto, ON, Canada
Sort: Loop
Profile: Quick and Flat
This race is described as “flat, quick, and festive,” and the organizers do their greatest to ship on all three guarantees yr after yr.
The elevation change over the course is modest, which ought to enable for regular pacing all through, leaving you the chance to save lots of a burst of power for the end line.
It takes place on a paved floor, which eliminates the necessity to overthink your footing, and the surroundings close to Lake Ontario’s waterfront is beautiful.
The breezes off the lake additionally assist hold the temperature modest most years, which may additionally assist your physique preserve power.
The race is effectively organized and attracts a good crowd, which most agree boosts motivation when it begins to lag by way of harder segments.
pkroon says there’s nothing lacking from the expertise:
TCS took on title sponsorship of the Toronto Waterfront Marathon in 2022, and in full disclosure I’m an worker of TCS so I received to learn from their hospitality at the beginning/end. This took the race to the following degree for me, however from my remark it was nice for different members simply the identical.
I loved the downtown begin and end centered round a primary park and that the marathon took me previous a lot of town and alongside Lake Ontario. There was nice help alongside the way in which.
One factor I hadn’t counted on was needing to do some psychological calculations coming down the stretch since there have been no mile markers on the course (in Canada, after all, they measure with KM).
Being a half mile away from the end line and never figuring out precisely how far it was behind the final curve, I discovered a second gear and made my BQ with a couple of seconds to spare. Aim met–time to rejoice!
The race additionally had a digital choice to do the entire shebang within the month of October–a 5K, a half marathon, and the marathon, which I did in particular person.
Rehoboth Seaside Seashore Half Marathon
Date: December, 2026
Location: Rehoboth Seaside, DE, USA
Sort: Loop
Profile: Quick and Flat
In case you’re somebody who prefers smaller races, much less of a crowd, and don’t wish to sacrifice on pace or surroundings… this one may be for you!
There’s nearly no elevation change over the course, and a lot of the course is run close to sea degree. There received’t be any hills to problem your stamina or trigger you to have to vary tempo. The paved surfaces alternate between roads, boardwalk, and path, however all of them are well-travelled and never overly technical.
Total, the trail could be very predictable, particularly within the second half when your power may be decrease.
The climate in coastal Delaware throughout December is usually cool however not chilly, which is mostly thought-about the most effective local weather for distance runners. The coastal winds may also assist with each tempo and luxury on a super day.
The race itself is well-organized, pleasantly cozy, and runners discover it pleasing and straightforward on their stress ranges.
mkbaker360 says it’s a must-do – and perhaps greater than as soon as:
December is the proper time to go to Rehoboth Seaside and this race is a should do in Delaware. Cool climate, ocean breezes and given it’s not excessive season there’s room to maneuver and discover the world. Nice seaside city with boardwalks and loads of eating places which might be open even within the “off season”.
Simple marathon logistics, stayed in a Hilton inside strolling distance of the beginning and end. There are many choices to select from inside strolling distance. Nice communication and race group. Expo was a small outside occasion.
Race course is a beautiful mixture of seaside boardwalk, paths by way of seaside marsh lands and a few neighborhoods. Largely flat. Simple choices for spectators to cheer you on all through.
Afterparty was glorious with loads of foods and drinks choices and a celebration environment.
Love the vibe round this race and it’s one I hope to do once more.
What half marathons have you ever finished that different runners must learn about?
There are such a lot of quick half marathons, however we needed to whittle down the checklist someplace!
What to learn subsequent?