Fall is almost here, one of the most enjoyable times of the year to race. Marathon season is ramping up, plus you’ll find races to celebrate the fall colors, Oktoberfest, pumpkin patches—and an end to hot summer temperatures. Here’s a sample of races coming up in the next couple months.
Marathon/Half Marathon
Indianapolis Marathon
Oct. 17; Indianapolis
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Indianapolis Marathon is more low-key than some of the other big-city races in the Midwest. It emphasizes the fall colors that you’ll see in Fort Harrison State Park and Fall Creek Greenway Corridor Park, which are both on the route. Organizers take pride in producing a first-class, midsize, runner-friendly race.
Humboldt Redwoods Marathon
Oct. 18; Weott, Calif.
Choose between a marathon, half marathon and 5K at this annual event in the Humboldt Redwoods State Park, about 200 miles north of San Francisco, and run among 17,000 acres of untouched, old-growth redwoods. You’ll be hard pressed to find a more impressive course anywhere—plus you’ll enjoy plenty of shade nearly the whole route.
Rock ‘n’ Roll Denver Marathon and Half
Oct. 18; Denver
Experience a Rocky Mountain runner’s high when the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series comes to the Mile High City. With10K and 5K options as well, the event offers something for runners of all abilities on beautiful courses that run through downtown Denver with live music and great views at every mile.
Atlantic City Marathon
Oct. 18; Atlantic City, N.J.
Participants in this marathon and half marathon will run nearly the entire length of the famed Atlantic City Boardwalk on a course that has excellent ocean views. 5K and 10K courses are also available, and all runners will enjoy a post-race party featuring Atlantic City favorites like Harry’s Clam Chowder and Rita’s Water Ice.
Cape Cod Marathon
Oct. 25; Falmouth, Mass.
Organized by the Falmouth Track Club, this 37th annual event has a reputation for its scenic course that takes full advantage of the fall colors. However, the course isn’t easy, especially the second half of the marathon. With about 3,000 athletes running throughout the weekend, the race retains a small-town atmosphere but still feels like a big event.
Thunder Road Marathon
Nov. 14; Charlotte, N.C.
This somewhat challenging race, featuring a loop course through downtown Charlotte, has its share of hills to keep you on your toes. But the strong crowd support, great organization and scenic route have helped make this one of the more popular marathons in the Southeast.
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