ST. GEORGE — Set against a backdrop of clear blue skies and iconic red rock formations unique to Southern Utah, the Snow Canyon Half Marathon has become a popular choice among runners from all over the country.
The 17th edition of this scenic, predominantly downhill and highly anticipated half marathon is set for Nov. 18 at 9 a.m. It will feature a record 3,200 participants, according to a news release issued by the city of St. George.
Everyone is invited to cheer on the finishers at Snow Canyon High School that morning.
“The Snow Canyon Half Marathon has always been a popular choice, with the awe-inspiring views of Snow Canyon State Park,” Michelle Graves, assistant parks and community services director for St. George, said in the press release. “Throw in the fact that there are not many places in the intermountain West where you can race this late into the year, and there is no surprise that this race has become so popular throughout the region.”
Daytime highs typically in the high 60s make November in St. George a great place for outdoor recreation.
The Snow Canyon Half Marathon returns for its 17th year, St. George, Utah, date unspecified | Photo courtesy of the city of St. George, St. George News
Nearly 70% of this year’s participants are from outside Washington County — no doubt beckoned by the mild temperatures and warm and welcoming spirit for which St. George is known, the release states.
In addition to the half marathon, this event will feature a variety of short-distance races to accommodate an assortment of ages and abilities.
Race times
Snow Canyon Half Marathon at 9 a.m.
5K race at 9 a.m.
10K race at 9 a.m.
Fun Run Walk n Roll at 11 a.m. (open to ages 2-18 and those with disabilities)
Race distances include 1 mile and 200 meters.
Packet pickup
Packet pickup will take place the day before the race Nov. 17, at the St. George Recreation Center between noon and 8 p.m. There will be no packet pickup on race day.
The half marathon course is also walker friendly, however, keep in mind that the course will close at 12:30 p.m. — 3 1/2 hours after the start time race, which equates to an average pace of 16 minutes per mile.
Information on bus times, pacing and awards can be found here. Register here.
About St. George Races
St. George Races, a division within the Parks and Community Services Department of the city of St. George, hosts a variety of half marathons, 10K, 5K, kids runs, triathlons, bike events, relays and other special events throughout the City of St. George and Washington County. St. George Races offers a variety of sponsorship opportunities for area businesses and utilizes the efforts of hundreds of volunteers.