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Are you interested in participating in one of the many long-distance races in and around Vegas each year? The below guide highlights the top half of marathons and marathons in Las Vegas for you to choose from.
Ranking Half and Full Marathons in Las Vegas
1. Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas
Described as the ultimate running party, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas races take place in February each year. The half marathon, 10K, and 5K runs celebrate Las Vegas with a themed race, including heavy rock music and flashy lights.
The half marathon is one of the only runs in Vegas after the Sun goes down. The half marathon is run under the lights of the Strip, starting at New York-New York and finishing at the Mirage. The 5k is run a day earlier and occurs entirely in Downtown Las Vegas.
The half marathon in 2024 costs $165 per entry. In addition to the races, there is also an opportunity to participate in a yoga event on the Strip.
2. Las Vegas St. Patrick’s Day Run
The annual Las Vegas St. Patrick’s Day Run includes 1-mile, 5K, 12K, and half marathon races in Boulder City, about 20 miles from Vegas. The course begins at the Historic Railroad Trail and will take you through six Hoover Dam tunnels before reaching the finish line at the Dam itself.
The cost for the half marathon in 2024 ranges between $80 to $110. Thousands of people attend each year. While called the “St. Patrick’s Day Run,” the event takes place on the weekend before the holiday. It’s a perfect race to attend if you’re visiting for one of the biggest party holidays in Vegas.
3. REVEL Mt. Charleston
The REVEL Mt. Charleston half marathon and marathon take place against the beautiful backdrop of Kyle Canyon in Mount Charleston. Considered by promoters as “the fastest marathon and half marathon in Nevada,” runners race down the mountain to the finish line in Las Vegas.
The race takes place in April; runners can book their place until the day before. The entry price depends on when you register, varying from $100 to $130 for the half marathon and $160 to $175 for the full marathon. You can receive a discount if you enter a team of four people.
Usually, around 400 runners attend, and everyone who crosses the finish line receives a medal. The net elevation drop for the marathon is more than 5,000 feet. This race is an excellent opportunity to work on your personal bests while counting towards a Boston Marathon qualifier.
4. Twilight Red Rock Half Marathon
The Twilight Red Rock Half Marathon, which takes place in October, lives up to its name! Starting just before sunset, the race takes you on a run through the desert, illuminated only by the moon and stars.
The entry cost for the half marathon varies depending on the registration date, ranging from $95 to $120. Because of the time of day, you must run in 360 reflective gear and carry a flashlight or headlamp.
There is no parking for this event, so runners and spectators need to be dropped off or use the bus services to/from the Strip provided by the event organizers (at an additional cost). The Twilight Red Rock Half Marathon typically has about 100 runners participating annually. Shorter races are also available.
5. Bootlegger (Previously known as Blood, Sweat, & Beers)
Held in partnership with Crafthaus Brewery, The Bootlegger will take place at Bootleg Canyon Park in Boulder City in late March.
The 50k and 25k races are completely run on trails. Entries are limited. Shorter 10k and 5k races are available. Free camping is available near the startline location all weekend.
Ready to Race?
There are many great and half marathons in Vegas throughout the year. The only question is: which one will you run first?
