From the vibrant, bustling cityscapes to the tranquil beauty of its national parks, Texas offers a stunning backdrop for half marathons. Regardless of the season, there’s a race that offers the perfect blend of challenge, scenery, and community spirit. In this article, we traverse the Lone Star State, from Dallas to San Antonio, the coastal stretches of Padre Island to the rugged badlands, presenting the best half marathons that Texas has to offer.
Whether you’re a seasoned road racer looking to beat your personal best on a flat, fast course or an adventurous trail runner eager to tackle hilly terrains, we’ve got you covered. We’ve included races that boast live music, historical landmarks, Halloween fun, and even a beach run. You’ll find that each race has its unique charm, making each a memorable experience.
So lace up those running shoes and get ready to explore the best half marathons in Texas across all four seasons. Let’s start with the winter races that kick off the year, and journey through to the festive fall events that wrap up the racing calendar. Whether you live in Texas or are planning a race-cation, this guide will help you discover the perfect race for you.
Dallas Marathon and Half
Next Race Date: Sunday 9th December 2023
Course Terrain: Road / Flat
Sign Up
The Dallas Marathon and Half Marathon are among the premier running events in Texas. The half marathon course is flat and fast, taking runners on a scenic tour of Dallas’s most iconic landmarks. Despite the cooler December weather, the Dallas running community turns out in force, providing incredible support and energy that makes this race a must-do event.
The Urban Ultra Dallas
Next Race Date: January 2024
Course Terrain: Road / Flat
Sign Up
The Urban Ultra Dallas is a popular winter half marathon, attracting a diverse crowd of runners. This race journeys through the heart of Dallas, offering participants a chance to experience the city’s vibrant neighborhoods and historic sites. The course is primarily flat, making it ideal for runners seeking to beat their personal records or those attempting their first half marathon. Despite the chill of the winter season, the enthusiasm of the crowd and the unique urban scenery make this a must-run event.
Natural Bridge Caverns Trail Run
Next Race Date: Sunday 18th February 2024
Course Terrain: Trail / Hilly
Sign Up
The Natural Bridge Caverns Trail Run is an exhilarating winter race that offers a unique trail running experience. Set in the stunning Natural Bridge Caverns, the race provides a thrilling run through Texas Hill Country, with a challenging course featuring hills, rocky terrain, and awe-inspiring views of underground caverns. This half marathon is a trail runner’s dream, but it is also an exciting challenge for those new to off-road running.
Missions Heritage Half
Next Race Date: August 2024
Course Terrain: Road / Flat
Sign Up
The Missions Heritage Half is a race that celebrates the rich history and culture of San Antonio. Runners will pass through four UNESCO World Heritage sites — the San Antonio Missions — making this a truly unique race experience. The course is flat and fast, perfect for runners looking to set a new personal best or for those seeking a memorable half marathon experience. The winter weather in San Antonio is generally mild, which adds to the appeal of this race.
Border to Badlands Ultra
Next Race Date: Est February 2024
Course Terrain: Trail / Mountainous
Sign Up
The Border to Badlands Ultra is a challenging winter race that offers a variety of distances, including a half marathon. Set in the rugged beauty of the Texas badlands, this trail race features steep climbs and descents, offering runners a test of their endurance and agility. The breathtaking views of the Rio Grande and the stark desert landscape make this race a truly unforgettable experience.
Run the Line Half Marathon
Next Race Date: February 2024
Course Terrain: Road / Hilly
Sign Up
Run the Line Half Marathon is a unique race that allows runners to stride across two states, Texas and Arkansas. The course is moderately hilly, providing a good challenge while still being manageable for first-time half marathoners. Despite the winter date, the race often experiences mild temperatures. This, coupled with the enthusiastic spectator support and the charm of downtown Texarkana, makes this a favorite among local and visiting runners alike.
Cowtown Marathon
Next Race Date: Saturday 24th February 2024
Course Terrain: Road / Flat
Sign Up
The Cowtown Marathon, taking place in Fort Worth, is one of the largest multi-event races in Texas. Despite its size, it maintains a small-town, friendly feel, with enthusiastic spectators and a community-focused atmosphere. The half marathon course is mostly flat, making it great for runners of all abilities. Participants will enjoy a scenic tour of Fort Worth, including its historic stockyards and the beautiful Trinity River Trails.
Alamo 13.1
Next Race Date: March 3rd 2024
Course Terrain: Road / Flat
Sign Up
The Alamo 13.1 is a spring half marathon that offers participants a historical journey through the heart of San Antonio. This race features a flat and fast course that winds past several significant landmarks, including the renowned Alamo. The combination of mild spring weather, energetic spectators, and the rich history of the city makes the Alamo 13.1 a bucket-list race for many runners.
Spicewood Vineyards Half
Next Race Date: Saturday December 9th 2023
Course Terrain: Road / Hilly
Sign Up
The Spicewood Vineyards Half Marathon is a unique race that winds through a picturesque vineyard in the Texas Hill Country. The course features rolling hills, providing a moderate challenge, and the fall weather makes for a comfortable running climate. The post-race celebration features award-winning wines from the vineyard, adding a touch of elegance to this running event.
Tinajas Ultra
Next Race Date: Winter 2023
Course Terrain: Trail / Hilly
Sign Up
The Tinajas Ultra is a spring trail run that challenges participants with the rugged and beautiful landscape of the Colorado Bend State Park. This race, including a half marathon, features challenging climbs and descents along rocky trails, with stunning views of Texas Hill Country. This is a fantastic race for trail running enthusiasts seeking a challenging early-season race.
Crazy Desert Trail Run
Next Race Date: March 2024
Course Terrain: Trail / Flat to Hilly
Sign Up
The Crazy Desert Trail Run is an adventurous race that takes runners on a tour of the San Angelo State Park. This race offers a half marathon distance, providing an excellent opportunity for both seasoned trail runners and those new to off-road racing. The course varies from flat terrain to rolling hills, offering a good mix of challenge and speed.
Bearathon Half Marathon
Next Race Date: March 2024
Course Terrain: Road / Hilly
Sign Up
Known as the “toughest half marathon in Texas,” the Bearathon Half Marathon is a challenging yet rewarding race. The course takes runners through the Baylor University campus and the beautiful Cameron Park, providing a mix of urban and natural scenery. Despite the challenging hills, the feeling of accomplishment at the finish line makes it a favorite among runners.
Divas Half Marathon and 5k
Next Race Date: March 2024
Course Terrain: Road / Flat
Sign Up
The Divas Half Marathon and 5k in Galveston is a women-focused race that celebrates female strength and endurance. The flat course provides an opportunity for runners of all levels to participate, whether they’re aiming for a personal best or running their first half marathon. With a fun, festive atmosphere and the Divas’ famous finisher medal and champagne toast, this race offers a unique and empowering running experience.
Plano Balloon Festival Half
Next Race Date: Sept 24th & 25th 2023
Course Terrain: Road / Flat
Sign Up
The Plano Balloon Festival Half Marathon is a summer race held during the annual Plano Balloon Festival. This flat road race offers spectacular views of the vibrant hot air balloons that fill the sky. Despite the Texas summer heat, the early morning race start and the incredible balloon spectacle make this a unique and fun race for all abilities.
Santa Hustle Half and 5k
Next Race Date: Sunday 16th December 2024
Course Terrain: Road / Flat
Sign Up
The Santa Hustle Half and 5k is a festive race that brings holiday cheer to the running community. Participants are encouraged to dress in their best Santa outfits, and the course is filled with holiday-themed aid stations and decorations. Despite the fun, the course is a flat and fast one, making it perfect for those seeking to end the year with a personal best. The holiday-themed medal, shirt, and post-race party make the Santa Hustle an unforgettable event to wrap up your racing year.
The Haunted Half Austin
Next Race Date: Sunday 28th October 2024
Course Terrain: Road / Flat
Sign Up
The Haunted Half Austin is a fall half marathon that combines running with Halloween fun. The course is primarily flat, making it accessible for all runners, and the festive atmosphere adds a playful twist. Participants are encouraged to run in costume, and the race features Halloween-themed aid stations, a spooky finish line party, and a uniquely designed finisher medal.
Note: This race was cancelled in 2022. We are unsure if it will be returning anytime soon.
Barrier Island Ultra
Next Race Date: November 11th 2023
Course Terrain: Beach / Flat
Sign Up
The Barrier Island Ultra, located on the stunning Padre Island National Seashore, offers an idyllic beach run in the fall. The half marathon course is flat and sandy, offering a unique challenge for those unaccustomed to beach running. With the beautiful Gulf of Mexico as a backdrop, this race is a scenic gem that offers a unique twist on the traditional half marathon.
The Franklin Mountains Trail Run
Next Race Date: January 21st 2024
Course Terrain: Trail / Mountainous
Sign Up
The Franklin Mountains Trail Run is an intense and exhilarating race for trail running enthusiasts. This fall race takes runners through the rugged terrain of the Franklin Mountains State Park, with steep ascents and descents that offer a true test of endurance. The views from the top are worth the effort, as runners are treated to panoramic vistas of El Paso and beyond.
Rock N Roll San Antonio
Next Race Date: 2nd December 2023
Course Terrain: Road / Flat
Sign Up
The Rock N Roll San Antonio is a premier race event that combines running with live music. Participants will run a flat, fast course through historic San Antonio, with live bands playing at every mile. The energy of the music, the enthusiastic crowds, and the post-race concert make this race a fun and lively event that’s more than just a run.
Read More From LiftRunRest: