Great Balloon Chase
Albuquerque, NM
- Half Marathon, 10K, 5K
- Road (Paved)
- Official race website
Rise to the Run! RaceNM presents the one-of-a-kind Great Balloon Chase ½ Marathon, 10K, and 5K — an unparalleled destination race! Feel the rush and marvel at the spectacle as you run with a kaleidoscope of hot air balloons ascending from the world’s premier ballooning event, all set against the … MORE
Local Historical Weather (Oct 04):
| 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | |
| H (°F) | 83 | 86 | 75 | 66 | 77 |
| L (°F) | 62 | 66 | 50 | 56 | 52 |
Find Nearby Lodging (hotel, rental, etc.):
Just OK
The course was mostly a bike/running path so not much to see immediately around you and practically zero crowds to cheer. Although it’s marketed as a tie-in to the balloon … MORE
The course was mostly a bike/running path so not much to see immediately around you and practically zero crowds to cheer. Although it’s marketed as a tie-in to the balloon festival, the course is not near the actual festival grounds. You can see the balloons in the far distance which is fine, but nothing more. For those from out of town, there really isn’t a whole lot to see in the city – you can make it a couple nights, with a trek to the festival and be content. The runners seemed mostly 50-staters checking off NM – i don’t get the sense this is big with the local running community.
Poor Customer Servce
My wife and I travelled from Iowa to run this race as part of our goal to try to run a half in every state. We were excited. I started … MORE
My wife and I travelled from Iowa to run this race as part of our goal to try to run a half in every state. We were excited. I started running at age 55 (in 2018) after a heart attack and triple bypass. I didnt pay close attention to the finisher’s medal right after the race b/c I was a but tired. When we got home, I noticed it was defective/broken. I’ve email and messaged for four (4) months now trying to get a replacement medal – even offering to pay for it – and the event sponsors have been largely unresponsive. I get an automatic reply saying my message has been received.
Incredible Views
The race is at just over a mile of elevation, but compared to other elevation races I didn't feel it as much here (thrilled/shocked I stayed under 2 hours despite … MORE
The race is at just over a mile of elevation, but compared to other elevation races I didn’t feel it as much here (thrilled/shocked I stayed under 2 hours despite the elevation).
This is one of the coolest races I’ve done, and seeing hundreds of hot air balloons ascending mid-race was incredible (it’s the only half marathon where I’ve actually stopped mid-race and gone to the shoulder of the road to take a video/photo).
Not too hilly, the difficulty just comes from the elevation.
Bib pickup at Dick’s Sporting Goods was fine (I think it was a bit slower for 5k/10k people but not bad at all), and it was great they give you a 20% off coupon for anything you want to buy there.
Book early, as hotels sell out fast for the balloon festival. Also Ubers can be a bit tough, since there’s so many people going to the balloon festival, but a lot of the uber drivers would rather go to the race start line than the balloon fiesta, so that was helpful.
Go for the festival
Travel: We flew to ABQ and rented a car. Public transportation was not feasible. Our hotel was about a 15-minute drive from the airport and another 10 minutes to race … MORE
Travel: We flew to ABQ and rented a car. Public transportation was not feasible. Our hotel was about a 15-minute drive from the airport and another 10 minutes to race start. The International Balloon Festival started Saturday, the day we arrived. We did go to the festival that evening, to see the balloon glow, but gusty wind meant it was not very successful. What we did see was worth the $15 per person and $20 to park.
Expo/packet pickup: There was no expo, with packet pickup (bib & shirt) at a Dick’s sporting goods store. There was a hot air balloon prop providing a photo opportunity. Race day packet pickup was also available.
Race parking: There seemed to be sufficient parking close the start/finish area. Porta potty lines took a long time, with quite a few people opting to use the nearby field instead.
Course: This course was out and back, with just a small difference on the return. The first two miles were on a dirt path, then the course crossed a road and went onto a paved bike and walking trail. Most of the course was pretty boring, with the exception of the hot air balloon launch. It was very cool seeing so many of the balloons in the air at the same time. There were not very many spectators along the course.
Course support: I felt there were not enough water stops but they did all have water and Gatorade. There were also a couple of spots on the course where it wasn’t very clear which direction to go. One person told me they went about a quarter mile off course before realizing their mistake.
Post-race: There were a couple of cute photo opportunities at the finish line area, with a couple of vendors. The food included various snacks and fruit. Premixed Gatorade had run out, so I had to mix my own.
Swag: Shirts were a choice of men’s or women’s cuts and the sizes were very wacky. My men’s medium was fine. My sister’s women’s large was the same size as a women’s small. Other people had similar issues. Exchanges were allowed after the race, based upon availability. The finisher’s medal was cute, with a stained-glass effect and little hot air balloon sliders. The bibs were also cute, in the shape of a hot air balloon.
Final impression: While I enjoyed the balloon festival and the cute medal, I would not rush to do this race again, unless of course I lived close by.
The Medal Saves The Race
Love the medal. Loved being in Albuquerque. Loved the Balloon Fiesta. The Balloon Chase Half Marathon needs a little more foundation and spice to fit into the environment. The finisher … MORE
Love the medal. Loved being in Albuquerque. Loved the Balloon Fiesta.
The Balloon Chase Half Marathon needs a little more foundation and spice to fit into the environment.
The finisher medal is top notch. The volunteers were top notch. Other aspects of the event were subpar, particularly the shirt and communication.
Definitely bring your own water belt. Volunteers staffing water tables were enthusiastic. But there weren’t enough tables out on the course for such an arid climate.
Hot air balloons
Small race, simple t-shirt (runs small), first mile+ and last mile+ on hard dirt trails, don't forget the altitude in Albuquerque, able to see mass ascension of the balloons while … MORE
Small race, simple t-shirt (runs small), first mile+ and last mile+ on hard dirt trails, don’t forget the altitude in Albuquerque, able to see mass ascension of the balloons while running which is the best part, very cool medal with moving balloons
Unique setting and venue!
Races uniquely timed during the Albuquerque balloon fiesta which makes for some exciting scenery. During the 10K I was not very close to more than one balloon or so. The … MORE
Races uniquely timed during the Albuquerque balloon fiesta which makes for some exciting scenery. During the 10K I was not very close to more than one balloon or so. The racecourse first third is on unpaved Trail, the first half mile or so had some tire ruts in it so you need to watch your footing. The remainder of the course was paved hike, and bike trail. Packet pick up was at Dick’s Sporting Goods however there are two in town. Make sure you go to the correct one, unlike myself, and the store said many people went to the wrong one first that weekend. Street address was given on the instructions however, when you put in GPS, the stores are listed by the name of the plaza and not streets. Race metal was super nice, gray shirt was good. Refreshments are excellent. A few more porta John’s would be nice. Race director had to keep spelling the name of the website to look up results, I would suggest posting large QR codes everywhere so people can just scan it and find the data. Overall, I enjoyed the experience and would do it again if I’m in the area at that time of year.
Loved this unique way to see balloons!
First time in New Mexico on my 50 states journey and would definitely recommend this race! Lucked out with perfect weather - 50’s and sunny - though the sun gets … MORE
First time in New Mexico on my 50 states journey and would definitely recommend this race! Lucked out with perfect weather – 50’s and sunny – though the sun gets really strong here (and altitude adjustment for anyone like me coming from below sea level) nonetheless, it was a beautiful day and there were many opportunities to see the balloons up for mass ascension! Fun photo opp with hot air balloon and getting in the basket. Lots of snacks etc for the post race.
Miscellaneous:
-packet pickup was kind of a doozy. I flew the day before the race and the hours were kind of limited, 3-6pm at a store and the line was very very long. Loved the shirt and medal – shirt is fitted so I’m glad I sized up, it’s soft and simple and I’m wearing it now just around town!
-clear pre race instructions, race is on the smaller side and I found parking to be pretty easy, only a bit of expected traffic getting into the lots – and very quick walk to the start. Also I LOVE a race that has the finish and start in the same spot – made it so simple logistically.
-course was beautiful, kind of packed in the first mile, dirt road, sidewalks and a paved foot path most of the way. Out and back, got somewhat monotonous, and there’s really not an opportunity for a ton of crowd support (careful of a long stretch without a water stop – I brought a handheld water and I’m glad I did)
Overall – wonderful race – really nice people – loved New Mexico and seeing the balloons!
Just as expected and unique experience!
After reading about other people's reviews and opinions of this race, I decided to take a chance on it. I think it was a perfect choice for a New Mexico … MORE
After reading about other people’s reviews and opinions of this race, I decided to take a chance on it. I think it was a perfect choice for a New Mexico race and preceded my expectations for a small race. This is a flat, out and back course, with the beginning initially being on a packed trail. Very brief. The rest was on a very nice, local pathway mostly surrounded by trees and river. People will mention the pathways being fairly busy at times, but with common courtesy and respectful etiquette, everything can run more smoothly. It was quite peaceful actually, running while looking out at the beautiful view of the hot air balloons floating above the trees and against the Sandia Mountains in the distance during the first weekend of the FAMOUS balloon festival. There were very little spectators on the course, except for volunteers (THANK YOU!), but enjoyed the conversations with runner along the course. The medal is very unique and awesome. After party was cool, especially when witnessing the landing of some hot air balloons. There were vendor tents and trucks on hand that provided local foods and drinks. Very cool! I appreciated the communication and would do this race again!
This Race was Okay for me
This race was okay. This is a small race. The packet pickup was held in a field where the race start and finish line were posted. There was a tent … MORE
This race was okay. This is a small race. The packet pickup was held in a field where the race start and finish line were posted. There was a tent where you pick your bib, shirt (shirts ran small), and a balloon themed scarf. Hats were promised after the race along with medals. There were no vendors, which made for a quick process.
Race morning there were a few photo props and opportunties before the start. The course started on a hard packed dirt road in a field, it then went out to a short stint along the main road before heading into a park on a paved path with a dirt foot path along side. There were real restrooms at the turnaround point and a water station with volunteers. I don’t recall any port o potties on the course. However, there were volunteers to ensure we made the correct turns. There was another water station at the beginning of the bike path. The course was out and back until the last mile or so. The post race food was oranges, water and breakfast baritos. I don’t recall wa else was there. I received my medal but the promised hats were all gone.
We were give the choice of an old race shirt or having the hat mailed to us.
Many hot air balloons in the distant sky as were visible on the course, which was cool. We also received free race photos. I’m glad I experienced the Great Balloon Chase but unfortunately, I would not to it again.
Great View of the Hot Air Balloons
Race is held during the Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque. Course mainly on a paved bike/walk trail. Minimal incline/decline. Being able to see the balloons was really cool! Lots of photo … MORE
Race is held during the Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque. Course mainly on a paved bike/walk trail. Minimal incline/decline. Being able to see the balloons was really cool! Lots of photo ops. Some hiccups that included running out of cups at one of the late aid stations, no water at the finish line (Gatorade was available), ran out of beanies for the back of the pack runners but the race director said more would be ordered and mailed out. (Could swap for a t shirt or tank top) These are things that I’m sure will be fixed/addressed for next year. One concern though that the trail was open to “the public” during the race and while most bikers were considerate, some were a tad bit aggressive. Overall I would recommend the race. And stay for the Balloon Fest!
Side note: it looks like they did include a ticket to attend one of the events at the Balloon Fest last year. That would have been a really nice addition to the race swag! The swag did include the bib (really cool – balloon shaped), a nice medal (with balloons), a “silk” scarf (switch THAT out for the ticket?) and the beanie (as mentioned, they ran out).
All those hot air balloons!
If going to Albuquerque's famous International Balloon Fiesta is on your bucket list, you will definitely want to include running a half marathon while watching the morning mass ascension as … MORE
If going to Albuquerque’s famous International Balloon Fiesta is on your bucket list, you will definitely want to include running a half marathon while watching the morning mass ascension as well!
This is a fairly small race that starts in a field and eventually hooks up to a multi-purpose trail. There were only 4 porta-potties at the starting line for all half marathon, 10K, and 5K participants, so just be aware and plan accordingly! The half marathon goes out at 7:00am, followed by the 10K (7:30am) and 5K (8:00am) racers. Race communication prior to the race is pretty sparse; no emails were sent out until the week of the race.
Packet pickup was available on Saturday afternoon as well as 2 hours prior to the race on Sunday morning. The t-shirts (non-technical) were really nice, and the balloon-shaped bib was a nice touch!
Overall, the race is pretty flat, but just know that in order to get to the multi-purpose paved trail (which you will share with many bikers and other runners), you will be doing a trail run and then running on a busy road with cars driving past you at high speeds. Luckily this only lasts for a mile or so. The course is an out and back, with a turnaround at mile 7. Water stops were every 2-3 miles, and they had both water and Gatorade available.
There really aren’t any easy places for spectators to view the course so you have to rely on volunteers to cheer you on. But really, the reason you have this race in the first place is to watch all of the hot air balloons launching in the sky while you are running. It really is a beautiful sight to see!
All race participants (half, 10K, and 5K) received the same medal, which was nice, as well as a special 5 year anniversary cowbell. All race participants also received a general admission ticket to Balloon Fiesta (worth about $15) which could be used at any session. Overall, it was a nice race and I would recommend.
balloons!
a simple, low-frills race with beautiful views along the bosque during the fall. there's something picturesque and uniquely New Mexican about running along the rio during balloon fiesta! probably my … MORE
a simple, low-frills race with beautiful views along the bosque during the fall. there’s something picturesque and uniquely New Mexican about running along the rio during balloon fiesta! probably my favorite race in NM!
Nice views
Nice view of the balloon flying in the sky during the race. Course was an out and back from a field which finding in the morning was difficult. The location … MORE
Nice view of the balloon flying in the sky during the race. Course was an out and back from a field which finding in the morning was difficult. The location had no markings, signs, or lights. It’s 5am, a pitch black field, and nothing else. Better communication and organization is needed.
For those who come from below sea level, like Florida, arrive a few days early and get altitude sickness meds. Even with the meds I had to take it easy.
Hot air balloon majesty
Seeing the hot air balloons was fun and gorgeous. The medals were disappointing but the shirts were nice. Minimal communication from the organizers. MORE
Seeing the hot air balloons was fun and gorgeous. The medals were disappointing but the shirts were nice. Minimal communication from the organizers.
Gasping But Worth It
The Great Balloon Chase is a destination event. It coincides with the Albuquerque international balloon festival, and it is at high altitude (approximately a mile above sea level). Both of … MORE
The Great Balloon Chase is a destination event. It coincides with the Albuquerque international balloon festival, and it is at high altitude (approximately a mile above sea level). Both of these aspects are defining features.
The balloon festival is apparently known around the world and a leading one if not the single most significant of these occasions, not that I know anything about ballooning. There are penguins and pigs and representatives of corporations and cities floating in the sky, which you don’t see every day or anywhere else. I can say I have never seen so many balloons ever, and it is impressive against the southwestern vista. The timing means many more folks are in town than usual. On the flight, you’ll hear people talking about balloons. Out and about, there are lots of chase vehicles all over.
The high altitude is the defining challenge. For lowlanders such as myself, this means huffing and puffing from the get go. Anyone not accustomed to being up at this level should acclimatize. I had two days. That is not enough. To put it into perspective, I ran a 2:35 the Sunday before. I felt great in the morning, much better than a week ago, with a full eight and a half hours of sleep, and I eked out a 2:51. I put in more effort too. I really felt the exertion in my lungs. My relative finish was terrific, my best post-pandemic. I was at the top of the bottom quartile.
That has to be taken with a caveat. I ran a quarter mile short. So I probably was closer to the top of the bottom quintile. But the point is the same: feeling pretty good, turning in a decent performance for me, I was still slow. Yet the crowd was very slow, with many from out of town and a good number of walkers.
It should be mentioned this venue also is desert. Hydration is crucial. That is always true. It is all the more so when it is as dry as this: my shoes were a bit moist due to a mishap the day before, and my running companion, who is a local, said not to worry; they’d dry out overnight. She was right. The temperatures were just about perfect. I started with a light jacket over my t-shirt, took it off at mile three and stashed it in my backpack. I had on light long pants by Under Armour, not shorts, but you could go either way with that and not regret it.
The route is an out and back. It traverses a field. A bit is along crowded roads. Most is along the Rio Grande. Thanks to global warming, it is sad looking in this area.
Back to the distance. We went through the finish the wrong way. That has to do with poor signage at the very end and a lack of volunteers.
My running companion was unimpressed by the organization. I have to agree with her that the bib pick up, at a sporting good store, was the slowest of more than 100 races. It was leisurely. That isn’t fatal.
Everyone was friendly and encouraging. So all in all, I recommend this race warmly. The word “unique” is not used properly in general. It means there is only one. This is unique. Nothing else occurs during a giant balloon festival (yes, there are races with a few, but you haven’t seen anything like this). Hundreds of balloons rising up as you take off is by itself a compelling reason to come out here.
A WOW-factor race Bucket-list for you
I always dreamed of going to the International hot air balloon fiesta in Albuquerque (largest in the world). Who knew that had a half marathon for it on the side. … MORE
I always dreamed of going to the International hot air balloon fiesta in Albuquerque (largest in the world). Who knew that had a half marathon for it on the side. It was well organized, everyone was so nice, the nicest volunteers I have ever had on a run. It felt like I was running in a small town race. Even the people walking along the race cheered you on. However the highlight of this run was seeing all the 100’s of Balloons on the horizon as you run along the river. It was truly unreal and a running experience you can’t get anywhere else. I would highly recommend this run to anyone. Than you make it a trip for a few days and check out the amazing festival and see the balloons up close.
Do this race!
The race director for this race is a gem. It is held during the Albuquerque Balloon festival and being from NM has been one of my greatest memories. This race … MORE
The race director for this race is a gem. It is held during the Albuquerque Balloon festival and being from NM has been one of my greatest memories. This race is still growing and working thru it’s kinks, however, despite the windy morning (no balloon launch) it would have been spectacular to run with the balloons. The course was no difficult and is mostly paved except for a stretch of gravel along a canal. It’s an out and back loop and not too too exciting but the weather was crappy and it didn’t help. On a good year with the balloons launching this race would have been awesome. I enjoyed my time and worth the exercise to get tacos!
Great scenery opportunity
Race aligns with the famous Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta; unfortunately due to weather this year the balloons did not launch on race day. Race starts in Rio Rancho and ends at … MORE
Race aligns with the famous Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta; unfortunately due to weather this year the balloons did not launch on race day. Race starts in Rio Rancho and ends at the Balloon Fiesta grounds. Shirt selection at packet pickup could definitely use some help; ran out of many of the commonly selected sizes.