If you have never visited the Treasure State, you are missing out. Take in the gorgeous vista of Big Sky Country while running the 13.1 in one of its most popular half marathons.
Run to the Pub Half Marathon – Bozeman
That’s right, you are literally running to a pub. This St. Patrick’s Day race is put on by Pub 317 and, attracts over 3,000 runners every year. You’ll get some awesome swag, and even get a chance to win an all-inclusive trip to Dublin, Ireland!
The Course
This point-to-point race starts out in the country just outside of Bozeman. The course is paved and mostly on a hill which you will run up from miles 1 – 3. The rest of the race is predominantly downhill, finishing at Pub 317 on Main Street. Learn more about the course here.
Image Source: Run to the Pub
Reviews
“This is a great half marathon and growing! Most of it is run through the countryside with beautiful views of the mountains. Both times I have run it the weather was beautiful. The t shirt is a long sleeve tech shirt, you also get a pint glass and of course a fabulous medal. There is beer and music at the finish. Post race snacks were light with bananas and oranges.” – Christy, Christyruns.com review
“This race had the highest number of runners out of any that I’ve completed so far, and yet it went off without a hitch. The course was gorgeous, the weather was impeccable, and the crowds really made a weary runner push that last bit to the finish line. I recommend this race to anyone, the half marathon was a blast!” – Blair Downey, Facebook.com Review
Snow Joke Half Marathon – Seeley Lake
This half marathon is no joke, it really does happen in the snow. It was started back in the 70’s by six guys who liked to run together on the weekends. They always ran the same 13 mile loop around Seeley Lake. One day they decided to advertise their loop as a winter half marathon. 37 years later, people still come to run this unique race.
The Course
Snow Joke’s course runs around Seeley Lake, featuring decent hills at miles 3, 5, and 6. The last mile of the race is an uphill climb to the finish. It goes without saying that the course conditions may be icy. This race has never been cancelled for weather conditions….ever, so come prepared. Get registered now on their website.
Image Source: Halfmarathons.net
Reviews
“The temps are always chilly, but the course was in superb condition this year and allowed for some solid performances. It’s always beautiful at Seeley Lake, rain, snow or shine.” – Grizmiler, Raceraves.com Review
““Running Snow Joke is a great way to encourage yourself to get your winter mileage in. Given the time of year there is potential for ugly weather, but one perennial runner has assured me the weather is usually good. I’d recommend you hedge your bets and bring the extra layers anyways.” – Racereviews.blogspot.com Review
Governor’s Cup Half Marathon – Helena
The Governor’s Cup series began in 1974. It works to support active lifestyles for families, casual runners, and professional athletes alike. Click here for dates and registration info.
The Course
One review praised the course as, “Both an amazingly scenic and technical course with lots of change of pace.” It starts out pretty flat, but the last five miles of the course are slightly uphill and can be challenging if you’re not prepared.
Image Source: Governors Cup Marathon
Reviews
“Event organizers put on a class-act race and the community truly embraces this iconic event in the state’s Capital city. Marathon champions receive, by far, the coolest winner’s trophy (awesome gold-pan to symbolize the discovery of gold in Last Chance Gulch) of any race I’ve run. This race will be on my calendar many more years to come!” – Cmfehr, Raceraves.com Review
“Smoothly run, beautiful views, great crowd support! The race starts out of town and runs through the west Helena valley and into town, through historic Last Chance Gulch.” – Bmazanec, Raceraves.com Review
Madison Half Marathon – Ennis
The Madison 13.1 is known as one of the toughest half marathons in the country. Starting out at 9,200 feet, the air may get a little thin for some you low-landers. Find out more on their website.
The Course
You’ll be running on a gravel road for the duration of the race. According to reviews, the road is very well kept, so no need to worry about tripping in pot holes. As you can see in the course map below, there is a lot of elevation change, be sure to train accordingly.
Image Source: Halfmarathons.net
Reviews
“I ran the half marathon in Ennis MT on July 22nd of 2012. It was amazing! It was hard!! I would recommend this run to anyone who wants to push themselves and prove they can do just about anything they put their mind to! almost all uphill, starting at about 9,200 feet, this course is breathtaking and gorgeous! A well groomed dirt road in the Gravelly Mountain Range….that’s all that needs to be said.” – Nina Corelli, Marathonguide.com Review
“This run is very difficult to rate with stars because it’s unique. I’ve given the course 5 stars since they say exactly how the course is… very high, difficult and with incredible views. There’s no other course I’ve heard of that puts you on top of a mountain range and gives you a very decent gravel road to run on..” – T.H., Marathonguide.com Review
Yellowstone Half Marathon – West Yellowstone
The Yellowstone half marathon is a young event, only in its 2nd year. The course will take you through trails and dirt roads in Gallatin National Forest. Click here to read more about the Yellowstone Half Marathon.
The Course
This race takes place entirely on dirt roads. The majority of the course is pretty flat with the exception of 2 hills. You’ll hit the first at mile 5, gaining about 300 ft by mile 7. The second comes at mile 11. It’s not a big elevation gain, but it’s steep and towards the end of the race. Make sure you put in some time training for hills.
Image Source: Yellowstone Half Marathon
Reviews
“Train on trails not roads. Lots of incline. Gotta watch your feet and some sections of trail got crowded. Beautiful scenery. Awesome finisher medal. I would do it again!” – Dawn Ridgway, Raceraves.com Review
“This race is up hills and through the trees on sometimes only narrow tracks. it is a tough race One of the toughest I have ran. What goes up comes down but it is rocky so you can’t make up for the up hill. the beginning and end of the race are on mostly a wide trail with some road There are some beautiful views through the trees and if you want to earn your special Grizzly medal at the end it is all worth it.” – AnneP, Racerave.com Review
Bozeman Half Marathon
If you’re looking to run your first half marathon, this is a great one to start with. Bozeman is a beautiful town that offers some awesome views. Don’t forget to hit up the after party after the race! Check out their website.
The Course
The race starts out flat for the first 5 or 6 miles with a great view of the Bridger Mountain Range. You’ll then proceed into a steady climb, gaining about 500 feet of elevation by the end of the 12th mile. From there on, it’s downhill all the way to the finish line.
Image Source: Halfmarathon.net
Reviews
“Beautiful scenic half marathon and I am sure the full was as well. The aid stations were great and there was a little support along the way that was enthusiastic. I had a great time and would do this one again.” – Christy Gerdes Facebook.com Review
“Great scenic run for the half, made the miles seem like they were going by fast. Hope it continues grow and gets more support.” – Jillian M Facebook.com Review