RUN THROUGH STONE AND SKY
RUN THROUGH STONE AND SKY
Weather/Conditions
Closest Airport
Finish Line Location
Difficulty
Course Locations
Terrain
Zion Half
DISTANCE
The Zion Half Marathon is designed to move you through the landscape, not just past it. Beginning in Virgin, the course follows the curves of the Virgin River and gradually climbs toward Springdale, revealing more of Zion with every mile. It’s a steady, intentional route that rewards you with a finish just outside one of the most iconic national parks in the country.
Day 3
Porcupine Rim | 14.6 mi.
September 19th, 2026
Start: 7:00 am (MT)
Cutoff: 4.5hrs
Elevation: +1,105 ft / -2,956 ft
Experience unique views of the famous Castle Valley with its majestic buttes, craggy cliff faces, and impressive stature. Along our route, catch a glimpse of Coffee Pot Rock and marvel at the colorful layers that have built the land. Elsewhere, listen with hopes of hearing the Colorado River below.
13.1 mi.
FEBRUARY 27, 2027
February 27, 2027
Start: 7:00 am (MT)
Cutoff: 4hrs
Elevation: +723
A 13.1-mile journey through Zion’s iconic landscape, where every mile brings new views and unforgettable moments. From quiet canyon mornings to towering sandstone cliffs, this is a race that stays with you long after the finish
Save $87
Day 2
Gemini Bridges (16.75 mi.)
September 18th, 2026
Start: 7:00 am (MT)
Cutoff: 4.5hrs
Elevation: +1,267 ft / -1,263 ft
Get a taste of this region’s incredible orange sandstone arches without the crowds. This loop trail circumnavigates fins of elevated sandstone and gives you a glimpse of the mighty Colorado River. Through erosion, these fins have transformed into a variety of partial and full arches that span the bright blue sky.
Reasons to run
ZION HALF
Zion in the early morning feels like pure magic — the canyon quiet, shadows stretch across the valley, and cliffs glow as the sun slowly climbs. The course moves through long desert views and gradually reveals towering sandstone walls, pulling you deeper into the landscape with every mile.
There’s a thrill in experiencing a place this dramatic, where each turn feels like a postcard and the air hums with “I can’t believe this is real” energy. It’s a race that feels like stepping inside the Southwest’s greatest masterpiece — bold, beautiful, and unforgettable long after the finish line.
Fan favorite race
Stunning Zion views
Gentle rolling
paved route
Victory snacks
Iconic landscape
medal art
Reasons to run
ZION
Zion in the early morning feels like pure magic — the canyon quiet, shadows stretch across the valley, and cliffs glow as the sun slowly climbs. The course moves through long desert views and gradually reveals towering sandstone walls, pulling you deeper into the landscape with every mile.
There’s a thrill in experiencing a place this dramatic, where each turn feels like a postcard and the air hums with “I can’t believe this is real” energy. It’s a race that feels like stepping inside the Southwest’s greatest masterpiece — bold, beautiful, and unforgettable long after the finish line.
What to
EXPECT
Race Weekend Schedule
Day 1 — Friday, Feb 26
12:00 PM – 5:00 PM — Race Expo & Bib Pickup open to all runners
6:00 PM — Bib Pickup closes
Day 2 — Saturday, Feb 27
4:30 AM — Shuttles start loading for the start line
5:10 AM — Last minute bib pickup opens (at start line)
6:00 AM — Last start line shuttle leaves
6:45 AM — Runners line up & last call for gear check
6:55 AM — National Anthem
7:00 AM — Race starts!
9:45 AM — Awards Ceremony
ZION HALF MARATHON
13.1 Miles
FEBRUARY 27TH, 2027
13.1 MILES
7:00 AM MT
PAVED UPHILL
4 HRS (18MIN/MILE)
722 FEET
The Zion Half Marathon begins on Kolob Terrace Rd in the small town of Virgin, Utah. Almost immediately after the start of the race, runners will hang a left onto a partially closed SR-9. They will then follow this road eastward as it winds and climbs uphill following the curves of the Virgin River through small but unique towns. As the runners progress toward the finish line, they will be treated to increasingly stunning views of the national park attractions and its surrounding landscapes.
There are only two major turns on this course, one at the beginning and one at the end of the race. Otherwise, runners will stay on the main road or on the paved trail and bike path that runs parallel to SR-9 all the way into Springdale. Just after mile 13, runners will turn right into the entrance of Cable Mountain Lodge.
DAY 2 | FRIDAY
Gemini Bridges
SEPTEMBER 18TH, 2026
16.75 MILES
7:00 AM MT
EASY TRAIL
4.5 HRS (20MIN/MILE)
1,627 FEET
Welcome to Day 2 of the course! Today, you'll enjoy a long descent through the Horsethief mountain bike system, navigating slickrock and sandy single-track. Stay alert for course markers and signs at junctions to avoid wrong turns.
Just before mile 8, head towards Gemini Bridges, where you can explore this natural wonder before returning to the access road. You'll re-enter the Mag 7 trail system, running alongside Bull Canyon with stunning views of the rugged walls. Juniper and sagebrush enhance the high-desert scenery.
Day 3 | SATURDAY
Porcupine Rim
SEPTEMBER 19TH, 2026
14.6 MILES
7:00 AM MT
ROCKY & SANDY
4.5 HRS (20MIN/MILE)
1,105 FEET
Welcome to Day 2 of the course! Today, you'll enjoy a long descent through the Horsethief mountain bike system, navigating slickrock and sandy single-track. Stay alert for course markers and signs at junctions to avoid wrong turns.
Just before mile 8, head towards Gemini Bridges, where you can explore this natural wonder before returning to the access road. You'll re-enter the Mag 7 trail system, running alongside Bull Canyon with stunning views of the rugged walls. Juniper and sagebrush enhance the high-desert scenery.
Hear it from our
VACATION RACERS
Stories from runners at past Half Marathon events
"I LOVED this race!! The entire experience, my first with Vacation Races, was amazing. From signing up to the finish line, it was easy and so well executed."
– Concharn
"Wow, my first race with Vacation Races was an absolute blast! It was only my second race ever, and let me tell you, they knocked it out of the park. They really went above and beyond. Totally worth every penny!"
— Aycan
"The scenery was breathtaking. I smiled the whole way. It went by quickly because I was just looking around, taking it all in. The medal is badass and I wore it all day. I love it."
– Laura
Hear it from our
VACATION RACERS
Stories from runners at past Half events
Event
INFO
Please Note
There is NO START LINE PARKING. All runners should plan to take a shuttle to or get dropped off at the start line on race morning.
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4 shuttle locations from Springdale, Utah
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2 shuttle locations from La Verkin, Utah
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Start line shuttles run from 4:30 AM - 6:00 AM
Shuttles from Springdale, Utah
Runners staying in Springdale should plan to take a shuttle race morning to the start line. There is NO PARKING at these locations. Shuttles will pick up runners from the following locations:-
Cable Mountain Lodge
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Red Cliffs Lodge Zion
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Hampton Inn & Suites
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Small lot across from Hotel De Novo Springdale
All shuttles will begin boarding at 4:30 am. If you are staying in Springdale near these stops, the race shuttle will be a convenient option. This shuttle is for runners only.
Shuttles from La Verkin, Utah
Shuttles will pick up near the designated parking areas in La Verkin. The two pickup spots are on either side of SR-9 so you won’t have to cross the street. The two pickup locations are:-
Between Best Western and River Rock Roasting Co.
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In front of the city office building.
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*NO PARKING at the start line
Time5:00-6:00am to avoid road closures
If you do not want to use a shuttle, you may have someone drop you off at the start line. However, there is no parking here. There is a strict time limit as we will be closing the road to allow for the race to start on time. Please be prepared with all of your gear in hand, and exit the vehicle quickly so your driver may promptly leave the drop off area.
Directions
From SR-9, turn north onto Kolob Terrace Rd. and drop-off in the designated area. Then, continue driving forward and turn left onto Pocketville Rd., then exit back onto the highway.
Finish line shuttle will bring runners back to both Springdale and La Verkin shuttle stops after the race.
Spectators
The La Verkin shuttle will NOT bring you to the finish line. Please use the Springdale shuttle stops.
Non-stop from 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Shuttles will run round trips from the finish line to the other 3 race-related shuttle stops in Springdale for both runners and spectators. Shuttles will also take runners back to their vehicle in La Verkin (including one stop by the Fairfield Inn, in Virgin). There is NO spectator pickup or return for the shuttles that go to La Verkin.
Spectator Note
Spectators will need to use paid town parking in Springdale and walk to one of the 3 shuttle stops utilized by the race. Shuttles to and from the finish line begin at 8:30am. If you are near enough to the finish line, or your runner might finish before post-race shuttles start running, please consider walking to the finish line in front of Cable Mountain Lodge.
There will be no event parking at the finish line.
Spectators Shuttles
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Shuttles running from 8:30am-12:00pm
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Spectator Pickup: all Springdale shuttle stops
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No Spectator pickup from La Verkin shuttle stops
Spectators will need to use paid town parking in Springdale or park at a Springdale shuttle stop in order to access the finish line. Although shuttles will drop runners off in La Verkin, they will not pick you up! They are intended for runner use only.
We ask that you be respectful of the Park’s request that we not use the Visitor Center parking lot for race spectating and finish line access.
Per the park's request, please avoid entering the park between 10am and 2pm to avoid overcrowding and traffic.
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As nature lovers, we are committed to keeping our events sustainable and managing negative impacts on the environment. Here's how you can help us:
CUP-FREE RACINGSingle-use plastic is a huge source of waste at any public event. We have reduced that impact by making our events "cup-free".
What does that mean for you?
Coolers of water and electrolyte drink are available at all aid stations, but cups will not be provided on course or at the finish line. In order to stay hydrated, we ask you to bring one of the following:
1. Reusable water bottle
2. Reusable cup - These light-weight cups fold into a pocket or waistband. Request one when you sign up to run!
3. Hydration pack - These are refillable backpacks meant for running that allow you to access fluid via a built-in straw.
ZERO WASTE CONTAINERS
You can help us reduce trash by sorting disposable items into the appropriate container.
You’ll notice three containers at our events:
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Compostables: Organic goods like banana peels and most food items (without the wrapper please!)
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Recyclables: Paper, aluminum, cardboard, steel, and glass. Please dump out any liquids into the compost bin BEFORE recycling the container.
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Everything Else: Non-recyclable food wrappers like from used gel packets and styrofoam. Please dump out any food matter BEFORE throwing away the container.
Please avoid putting organic waste and compostable items in the wrong bin. It gets gross to sort through.-
All aid stations are cup-free so remember to bring your own hydration solution or request a reusable cup when you register.
Expect 5 aid stations on the course, spaced every 2 miles starting with mile 3 (~3, 5, 7, 9, & 11). Aid station #1 near mile 3 will act as the only official clothing drop on course. Any clothing dropped at the clothing drop sign at this aid station will be taken to the finish line for pickup along with gear check bags left at the start. A medic will be stationed at aid station #3 near mile 7. Aid stations include toilets, water, electrolytes, gels, basic first aid supplies, and sometimes more. Cups are not provided on course to help reduce waste.
Any participants hoping to compete for overall awards will need to start in the BLUE wave at the very beginning of the race. While the Overall Male, Female, Non-Binary and Masters Male and Female will be based on chip time for this event, the competitors for these awards will need to begin in the first wave, within the first 15 minutes of the starting gun time. Any athletes crossing the start line after the first wave begins will be considered for Age Group awards.
Place medals will be given to the top 5 male, female, and non-binary runners overall as well as the Masters 40+ group.Additionally, the top 5 in each of the following age groups will also receive a place medal: 11 and younger, 12-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75 and older. As of yet, we do not offer non-binary age group awards.
There will be finisher medals for everyone who finishes the race.
The official Race Shirt is picked up at expo upon check-in, and the official race medal is awarded upon crossing the finish line.
Exclusive Race merchandise will be available both at the race expo and near the finish line! When possible, we'll have race merch for sale in our online store after the race is over.
Please allow time for us to add items online.Make Your Medal Even More Meaningful with iTab 🏅
Now, you can make it last forever with an iTab, a custom engraved plate with your name and finishing time that clips right onto your medal ribbon.
Pre-order before race day, and it’ll be sent to you automatically after you finish. If you missed out on pre-order, no worries. You can order yours today for just $15, including postage & packaging here.
Results
Live results will be hosted online by Laurel. Visit the results button below for final finisher times after the event is completed. Keep in mind, the results are not official until all runners have crossed the finish line, and have been reviewed by the event director. Got questions about your placement? Please email timing@brooksee.com.
Ship My Medal
Top Finisher but missed the awards ceremony? You can request to have your place medal shipped to you! Visit this link to have your place medal shipped to you.
Photos
FinisherPix will be at each event to capture your race memories. Within 24-48 hours post-event, your photos will be available at the link below. You can purchase your race photos ahead of race day during registration or directly through FinisherPix. The FinisherPix Photo Pack includes ALL photos we identify of you in all digital formats (Basic digital image, Digital images with Finish Time, Digital images in certificate format). A link to download all images will automatically be emailed to you when photos are available online. Click the button below to view race weekend photos once available. Search for your individual photos by last name or bib number.Share your experiences with us! Be sure to use the event hashtag in any photos you post from the race or your adventures exploring the park so we can share in the fun with you!
Be sure to use #ZionHalf in anything you post!
Explore
ZION
No matter where you are in your running journey, Zion Half is the perfect place to push your limits, forge new connections, and take in the jaw-dropping beauty of Zion National Park. Come experience one of the most stunning race destinations the American Southwest has to offer.
Weeping Rock
Short but steep! From the parking area, you'll cross the bridge and head to the left onto a paved trail to Weeping Rock. Along the way, look for small trailside exhibits and watch for minor drop-offs. The trail ends at a set of steps leading you to a rock alcove with dripping springs.
Difficulty - easy
Elevation - 137 ft
1.5 miles
2027
MEDAL & TEE
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Coming Soon
Race weekend is more than just a start line — it’s a full-on adventure, and we want your experience to feel smooth from the moment you arrive. Whether you’re running, or cheering, HotelPlanner makes it easy to find the right place to stay with exclusive discounted rates for Zion Half participants, friends, and family — plus a seamless booking experience and 24/7 customer support. The Zion Half HotelPlanner page is already set up with official race weekend dates and lodging options near key event areas like the Expo, Start Line, and Finish Line — so you can stay close to the action and wake up ready for an unforgettable race morning.
Book early to secure the best rates and make the most of your Zion adventure.
Book Your Stay with HotelPlanner Now!
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