Nebraska – home of Cabela’s, endless fields of corn, and the world’s largest train yard. Check out the country side of the Cornhusker state while participating in one of its most popular half marathons.
What The Hill?! Half Marathon – Gretna
Put on by G.O.A.T.z (Greater Omaha Area Trail-runners), this race goes to support local trails and trail running in general. The race website states, “It might not be the hardest race you’ll ever do, but we promise, you’ve never done one like it.”
The Course
This course is unique in that it is not a point to point race. You actually do 24 laps on a 0.55 mile loop in the Schramm Park State Recreation Area. The trail takes you up 125 feet in less that a 1/4 mile. That’s a 9.5% grade! Learn more about the course here.
Reviews
“Such an outstanding, unique event. The GOATz have always put on great races. The volunteers are tops. The supporting people around the loop are fantastic. Trust me when I say that there will come a time when you need their high fives and hollers, because these loops are pretty tough from loop 1.” – Chris Bultsma, Facebook.com review
“Fun, fun, FUN!!!! And the food…sooo gooood!!!!!!” – Anchalee Sjoberg, Facebook.com Review
Double Half Mary Half Marathons – Valparaiso & Roca
What do you mean double!? This race is actually 2 half marathons spread out across a weekend. You can run one or the other or both! Either way, your in for a treat. Register for this race here.
The Course
Both races are trail runs and take place on crushed limestone surfaces. One starts in Valparaiso and the other in Roca. Both are out and back races. According to race organizers, the trail is “flat as a pancake.” Look at the elevation map for the Valparaiso race and decide for yourself.
Image Source: Halfmarathons.net
Reviews
“What a great race! Friendly people, not crowded and beautiful scenery.” – Cherisa Price, Facebook.com Review
“It was awesome! Thank you all so much! It was my first half and can’t wait to try the whole weekend next year!” – Adrienne Christensen, Facebook.com Review
Logan View Raider Run Half Marathon – Hooper
Are you looking for a quiet country run with some great views? If so, the Logan View Raider Run may be for you. The proceeds go to the support of various Logan View Education Foundation programs, clubs, and scholarships. Click here for dates and registration info.
The Course
Set in rural Nebraska, this out and back race takes place entirely on gravel roads. The course is pretty challenging, featuring lots of rolling hills and a couple steep climbs. Don’t expect a PR on this one.
Image Source: Halfmarathons.net
Reviews
“The volunteers did a thorough job providing aid at all stations, along with providing some words of encouragement. It’s these type of well organized races that get me to come back year to year.” – Cory Logsdon, Facebook.com Review
“From the beginning marathoner to the more experienced runner, the Logan View Raider Run has something for everyone. It starts with a scenic setting in the Nebraska countryside. The race is run completely along the rural gravel roads of the area. From the rising morning sun to the nearly ready for harvesting fields of corn, you could not ask for a more stunning views to enjoy.” – Brad Prall, Facebook.com Review
Sillassen Half Marathon – Arthur
The Sillassen half marathon takes you on a journey through the scenic Nebraska Sandhills. For veterans running this race, the top male and female veterans win the patriot award and a custom belt buckle made by Hanna Silversmiths. Find out more on their website.
Credit: Hanna Silversmiths
The Course
For the most part, the course is flat with the exception of a couple minor hills. This course is a point to point race on a single lane paved road. In the interest of runner safety, the road will be closed to traffic during the race.
Credit: MapMyRun.com
Reviews
“The Sillassen Half-Marathon will be a challenge to those who want one, and a great first half- marathon for those looking for an unassuming place to give the distance a try.” – Enter2Run.com Review
“This is a beautiful route on a one lane asphalt road through the Sandhills. There are a couple “larger” hills as well as some smaller rolling hills and flat meadow to run through on your way to the finish line at the park in the town of Arthur.” – RoadRaceRunner.com Review
The Good Life Halfsy Half Marathon – Lincoln
If you have never had the opportunity to visit Lincoln, this is your big chance. According to the race site, “Runners will take in some of Lincoln’s favorite landmarks and views including Holmes Lake, Sunken Gardens, Antelope Valley, the State Capitol and downtown stadiums.” Click here for more details.
The Course
If your looking for a PR course, this is great one to try. As you can see in the elevation map, it’s almost all down hill. The course follows paved roads through downtown Lincoln, so there will be no lack of cheering spectators to spur you on the to finish line.
Credit: Good Life Halfsy
Reviews
“Fantastic race! This is such a great and organized race! I loved the marketing that The Good Life Halfsy puts into this race. Everything is top notch – the high quality shirts, lots of porta-pots at the starting line, organized starting line, encouraging pacers, cheer squads and water stations, a fun finish line and post-party, and a great medal. One of my favorite races for sure!” – Jon Donaldson, Facebook.com Review
“Overall a great race. The organization at the start line was very good and easy to navigate. Very happy to see the number of porta-potties. Good number of water stations. Loved the cheering sections.” – Jon Dauer, Facebook.com Review