Run Sedona Half Marathon
Sedona, AZ
- Half Marathon, 10K, 5K
- Road (Paved)
- Official race website
Join the annual RunSedona this February in the breathtaking landscapes of Sedona, Arizona! This premier running event features a Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, and a family-friendly 5K Walk, winding through the iconic Red Rocks and scenic streets of one of the “Top Ten Most Beautiful Places” (as hailed by travel … MORE
Local Historical Weather (Feb 06):
| 2026 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | |
| H (°F) | 68 | 70 | 54 | 51 | 55 |
| L (°F) | 46 | 44 | 36 | 36 | 41 |
Find Nearby Lodging (hotel, rental, etc.):
Disappointed by pre race issues
I won't repeat what franmom reviewed, since it's accurate to what I experienced but to add to that. We arrive at one of the designated shuttle pickup locations (Sedona airport … MORE
I won’t repeat what franmom reviewed, since it’s accurate to what I experienced but to add to that. We arrive at one of the designated shuttle pickup locations (Sedona airport parking lot) and waited. And waited.
Shuttles were supposed to run from 6 am until 7:30. We were one the first to arrive (probably 6 or so cars were there before us) and runners kept arriving. At 7:15, I called the Marriott where the packet pickup was, since I couldn’t find a number for the event organizers, and asked the front desk to rely that we were waiting for a shuttle to arrive. The gentlemen came back and said he was told the shuttles are operating smoothly and on time.
We made the call the leave and park at about 7:25, drove to the other shuttle location and encounters more folks who were waiting quite some time, again no shuttle showed. It was a crawl driving because now traffic was congested getting to either the runner drop off or the high school parking.
I finally arrive at the bag check just before the starting time of 8am….no time to stretch or prepare. The mass of people milling about blocked the starting chute and getting thru that was an effort in and of itself.
Not impressed by all of this, especially since this was the 21st or plus event. I would have thought it would have been better planned and had someone at the shuttle stops to communicate to those of us waiting and wondering.
Feel short of expectations
Sedona is beautiful no doubt about it and that makes this race well worth it. My thoughts: Packet pick up: Parking was unorganized and in short supply. Waited in line … MORE
Sedona is beautiful no doubt about it and that makes this race well worth it. My thoughts:
Packet pick up: Parking was unorganized and in short supply. Waited in line close to 45 minutes to get into the Marriott.
Swag: a purple t-shirt and decent medal. Nothing to write home about. There was a booth after the race that had some nice Sedona stuff but not a lot of options for race swag to buy.
Race: again, parking was a mess, the volunteers appeared to be winging it. We ended up parking on the street (at the direction of the volunteers). The start was very confusing. No communication at all. The line starts moving forward and we moved with it to be put through the shoot and then over the starting line. As mentioned, Sedona is very pretty but the out and back made us feel cheated. There are hills that are significant but doable. There was one water station at mile 1 (which was mile 5 coming back). I was really stunned at this.
Overall, a bit disappointed. If you liked this race, highly recommend the Garden of the gods race in Colorado Springs. That race has a different view around every corner and is a loop.
Definitely glad I did this race, but not sure I’ll be back. Just feel like for the price it would have been a smoother experience with greater value.
Stunning buy hard
This is one of the best run races I have participated in. Key points: * The organizers held two sessions before the race to share information and answer questions. * … MORE
This is one of the best run races I have participated in. Key points:
* The organizers held two sessions before the race to share information and answer questions.
* Multiple packet pickup options
* Good signage throughout the course – including funny ones to make up for the lack of spectators.
The only negative was the congestion before the start with the start area overlapping with the expo. But once we were in the chute, it was very smooth and the runners spread out quickly. So a minor issue.
The views on the run are stunning. Personally, the hills hit me more than expected, despite training a lot on hills and I walked for some of them. I will return one day to defeat them!
RunSedona
The race was on a beautiful course, some of the roads were a little wonky, but the view was amazing. Hills, hills and hills both up and down. Water stations … MORE
The race was on a beautiful course, some of the roads were a little wonky, but the view was amazing. Hills, hills and hills both up and down. Water stations seemed a little light and they had the reusable cup, which was not difficult to maneuver, I thought. Volunteers were pouring the electrolytes into the cups and for the water they had a push spigot contraption, they did let you practice when you picked up your bib. The bib pickup was quick and a very small event. I stayed at the Arroyo Pinion which was a 15 minute walk from the start, really nice place to stay. The medal was pretty.
Gorgeous views! Rest was average....
This race marked State #19 for me. Without question, the scenery is the highlight of this event—panoramic and absolutely outstanding throughout the course. From registration through race weekend, communication was … MORE
This race marked State #19 for me. Without question, the scenery is the highlight of this event—panoramic and absolutely outstanding throughout the course.
From registration through race weekend, communication was solid. Emails were timely, and the athlete guide clearly covered the basics. We arrived several days early to acclimate to the elevation and had no issues. Packet pickup, however, was crowded, with long lines and approximately a 30-minute wait. This was expected based on prior reviews. There was no expo, which had been clearly stated in advance. I do wish sponsors had provided coupons or flyers, especially for out-of-state runners. One store at packet pickup offered running shoes and essentials on sale, though prices appeared comparable to outlet pricing.
On race morning, we parked at the high school lot as instructed and arrived early per the email guidance. The process felt somewhat chaotic, as runners were unsure where to walk or where shuttles were located. The parking lot was dark with no lighting. We walked approximately 0.7 miles to the start line. There were plenty of portable restrooms with no lines, which was appreciated.
The start area itself was very congested. Many runners simply followed what others were doing due to limited space and unclear direction. Unfortunately, it was impossible to hear the announcer. The course is an out-and-back road course; despite some confusion among runners, it does not include dirt trails. There are several hills, but none were overly difficult.
Aid stations were frequent and well stocked, offering a wide variety of water, carbs, and snacks. Volunteers were friendly and encouraging throughout. A standout moment was the halfway point, where volunteers dressed as characters from Stranger Things—they looked fantastic and added a fun, memorable element. Many runners stopped for photos, and the atmosphere along the route was friendly and social.
The final half mile leading to the finish line was disappointing. Runners who had already finished were walking back through the course carrying medals and food, which interfered with those still racing and caused frustration. This area should be kept clear, with a separate exit path for finishers. Spectator turnout was limited, which was expected.
At the finish line, post-race offerings were minimal—only a small bag of churro snacks. There was no beer and very limited bottled water. Food trucks were available for purchase. A volunteer mentioned that family members had been taking food and water intended for runners, which contributed to shortages. As a result, many runners left shortly after finishing. Vendor tables were pleasant, and staff were friendly. The medal was large and well designed.
Overall, this race lacked the energy and post-race experience found at events such as Las Vegas, Bass Pro, Myrtle Beach, or Tulsa Route 66. However, as many runners note, the scenery truly is the defining and best feature of this race.
Great scenery, hard course
The course is no joke, but the scenery is beautiful. It’s an out and back course, and the road is closed, so there’s really not any spectators along the course … MORE
The course is no joke, but the scenery is beautiful. It’s an out and back course, and the road is closed, so there’s really not any spectators along the course except for at the aid stations. The aid stations were well stocked with a variety of fuel. My only suggestion about aid stations would be to have multiple port-a-potties at each one. Most did, but the one at miles 5/8 just had one and it had a line both times I passed it.
The start could be better organized. It wasn’t clear where to line up. I thought all races were starting together, so I was just mixed in with the 10k and 5k runners and we were slowly making our way to the start of the chute and then all of the sudden they called last call for the half marathon. A bunch of us had to squeeze our way around the 10k and 5k runners to get through. I think better signage making it clear that only the half marathoners should be at the front would be good. However, the road was so packed that even if there had been signs, I’m not sure I would have seen them because it was almost impossible to move towards the front because there were so many people.
Parking was also a challenge for my husband. We got to the race about 30-40 minutes early and that wasn’t early enough. He was able to drop me off about a half mile from the start, but he couldn’t find any parking until some of the 5k and 10k participants started leaving. At that point, he got a spot and was able to meet me at the finish line. So when they say get there early, it needs to be probably at least an hour early.
The hills!
Such a beautiful race, but the hills!! I really enjoyed it!! It’s a “cupless” race So I carried my water bottle and refilled it along the way, or they provided … MORE
Such a beautiful race, but the hills!! I really enjoyed it!! It’s a “cupless” race
So I carried my water bottle and refilled it along the way, or they provided a cup you could carry with you and fill at the aid stations.
Beautiful and Challenging course
Overall impression: A stunning, challenging race set in one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever run — but with some organizational hiccups that matter, especially for road runners. Packet … MORE
Overall impression: A stunning, challenging race set in one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever run — but with some organizational hiccups that matter, especially for road runners.
Packet pickup:
Packet pickup was smooth and well organized. No complaints here — efficient, easy, and a good start to race weekend.
Race morning logistics:
Race morning, unfortunately, was chaotic. The PA system couldn’t be heard where most runners were gathered, which left many of us unsure where to line up or what was happening. For a race of this size, clearer communication and signage would go a long way toward reducing stress at the start.
The course:
Simply put: jaw-dropping. The scenery is unreal — red rocks, wide-open views, and a true Sedona experience from start to finish. That said, this course is very hilly and should not be underestimated. The elevation changes are constant and cumulative, and they take a real toll late in the race. My calves began cramping around mile 12, which speaks to just how demanding the final miles are.
Aid stations:
This is a no-cup course, which I personally didn’t love — but I was glad I carried a 500 ml bottle, because it was absolutely necessary. Aid stations were well stocked, but the food offerings felt more like what you’d expect at a trail race than a road half marathon. Seeing things like PB&J sandwiches around mile 8 — right before a major climb — was a strange choice. Most runners at that point are looking for simple carbs, not something heavy.
Timing & results:
One major frustration: results were posted using gun time, not chip time. Given the disorganized start and difficulty hearing announcements, this feels unfair — especially for runners who were forced to start farther back than intended. Chip time should be standard for an event like this.
Post-race & expo:
The post-race area had a great atmosphere. The expo and finish area felt relaxed and celebratory, with a nice vibe for runners to hang out, refuel, and enjoy the surroundings after finishing.
Final thoughts:
RunSedona delivers an unforgettable visual experience and a legitimately tough course. If you’re looking for a scenic, challenging race and are willing to sacrifice PR potential, it’s absolutely worth doing. That said, clearer race-morning communication, chip-time results, and more road-runner-appropriate aid station offerings would elevate this race from great to exceptional.
Who this race is for:
Runners who value scenery, challenge, and experience over time goals.
Who it’s not for:
Anyone chasing a PR or expecting a fast, traditional road half marathon.
Beautiful scenery was worth the hills!
I knew this race was a challenge, but incredibly worth it. Once I got started running, I anticipated a poor performance of myself. I managed to actually run one of … MORE
I knew this race was a challenge, but incredibly worth it. Once I got started running, I anticipated a poor performance of myself. I managed to actually run one of my better times! Weather for this race was a bit cold to start, but given the cool weather for the duration of the race, it made it so much more comfortable to run in. Couldn’t have picked better weather! The production of the race was great. I had learned that the race this year had more than twice as many participants than in previous years and the line to get in the expo was proof of that (including the tight space for the expo at the host hotel). However, the line to the expo/bib pick up went fairly fast. Excellent race!
Beautiful course but hilly
The course goes through one of the many scenic red rock areas. There are a lot of hills, but it is an up and back course so the net elevation … MORE
The course goes through one of the many scenic red rock areas. There are a lot of hills, but it is an up and back course so the net elevation is zero. It can get lonely during the race since the only spectators are at the refreshment stops. Overall, I would reccommend it and you should spend a few extra days in Sedona hiking some of the numerous trails.
Stunning course
I chose this race for AZ because of the location, and it did not disappoint. The scenery was breathtaking. Sedona was a great town to spend some extra time in … MORE
I chose this race for AZ because of the location, and it did not disappoint. The scenery was breathtaking. Sedona was a great town to spend some extra time in as well. I went with a group of friends, and we stayed to do some hiking and exploring and had a blast.
EXPO: not much of an expo. They had some great deals on some shoes and a few extra swag items you could purchase. No vendors really.
COURSE: definitely a difficult course with > 1000ft of elevation gain. I was not trained up on hills like I should have been. Many of them were rolling so if you train hills, you will be fine. That’s my own fault.
PRODUCTION: The race team did a great job with great communication. The volunteers were great. Not much community support on the course.
POST RACE: typical snacks. Beer and a food truck available for purchase. Race medal was ok
Beautiful and brutal. Hills don't stop.
Full points for scenery. Out and back course which means you see every hill (and aid station) twice. Decently supported, everyone got silicone cups for a cupless race although aid … MORE
Full points for scenery. Out and back course which means you see every hill (and aid station) twice. Decently supported, everyone got silicone cups for a cupless race although aid stations did provide cups with water and Gatorade. Start/end walkable to several hotels. No mile markers on course.
amazing views
I traveled from Dallas. the scenery is amazing !!! its about about the views. good atmosphere at the start line. I used the bag check to secure my jacket after, … MORE
I traveled from Dallas. the scenery is amazing !!! its about about the views. good atmosphere at the start line. I used the bag check to secure my jacket after, it was cool weather. Sedona is beautiful but expensive. The hills are fun, lots and lots of fun. The elevation is about 4,600′ , I’m from TX about 462′ – beware. Race shirt was not impressive , they should have included the sponsor on the back. I could see running this again in a few years. Too expensive to have it in the annual rotation.
Beautiful scenery
Running around beautiful mountains is great experience. Course is not smooth but still I liked it as weather was perfect to run.Sedona is nice and beautiful town with some spectacular … MORE
Running around beautiful mountains is great experience. Course is not smooth but still I liked it as weather was perfect to run.Sedona is nice and beautiful town with some spectacular mountains and trails. Come with an extra day to explore.
Best option for destination run
This is the one to enjoy the view and it comes a bit of challenging hills. It was chilly this year with some snow on the top of the mountain. … MORE
This is the one to enjoy the view and it comes a bit of challenging hills. It was chilly this year with some snow on the top of the mountain. It made it even more beautiful and added some challenges for me, at least. Overall, it was well organized and I strongly recommend it.
Amazing Race
This race is awesome! The scenery itself makes it worth it. The course is VERY hilly. The race is well done. Plenty of aid stations and potties. The expo was … MORE
This race is awesome! The scenery itself makes it worth it. The course is VERY hilly. The race is well done. Plenty of aid stations and potties. The expo was small but after the race has lots of food and the swag is good. I suggest staying a few days and enjoying the town.
Most beautiful half I've ever done..
This was an amazing race, and I'd sign up for it again in a heartbeat. The scenery was unreal, and it was definitely the most beautiful race I've ever run. … MORE
This was an amazing race, and I’d sign up for it again in a heartbeat. The scenery was unreal, and it was definitely the most beautiful race I’ve ever run. The race was smoothly run, and I had a great time in Sedona over the weekend. I’m not generally a big fan of medals, but the one they gave out this year was awesome. Loved it all.
Epic scenery, Epic inclines
You won’t notice the climbs by looking straight at the beautiful red rock formations! This is a small race in a beautiful small town. The pre-race gathering was contested because … MORE
You won’t notice the climbs by looking straight at the beautiful red rock formations!
This is a small race in a beautiful small town. The pre-race gathering was contested because they put everything info, bib pick up and shopping under one tent! It was cramped. There was great support on the course with the water stops just at the right place. Post-race… they ran out of bananas and other items and handed out cookies… not a bad option but needed milk.
Definitely a worthy race… just set your expectations to low on production.
Room for Improvement
I'm living in Phoenix metro and wanted to run in one of Arizona's best scenic spots. The course was tough but still doable and the views still make it worth … MORE
I’m living in Phoenix metro and wanted to run in one of Arizona’s best scenic spots. The course was tough but still doable and the views still make it worth running.
The website could use some improvement with details or FAQ’s to help racers prepare better. We were never told that it would be chip timed, only gun time, which worried me until I picked up my bib and saw the chip on it. We weren’t informed of what would be provided at the aid stations exactly until visiting the expo to pick up my bib. We also weren’t informed there would be a bag drop to allow us to bring warm gear that we could shed before the race start. No good food at the end of the race other than cookies, more GU gels, and bananas. Would have loved some kind of protein drink/chocolate milk, fruit cups, juice, anything more.
My biggest complaint is that the turnaround point for the Half Marathon was short and all of the mile markers on the return route were no longer accurate (whereas all the markers up to to the turnaround were). We basically finished right at 13.0 mi. No free swag provided by sponsors to try, and the expo felt too simple.
Sounds like I’m complaining quite a bit but I really did enjoy this race. Some positives: the volunteers were energetic and did an amazing job to keep the aid stations stocked, ready to help pass out Gu gels or holding out water, and a great pep squad. Plenty of local law enforcement participating to help with traffic control and keeping the runners safe. Fellow runners camaraderie was supportive in cheering each other on or being helpful on the shuttles to ensure no participant was left behind if there was another seat available to share. Overall it was a great experience and had a great time running with my friends!
Spectacular scenery but challenging!
This course was stunning with all of the gorgeous scenery to look at while running, but there are a lot of hills so take that into consideration! We had planned … MORE
This course was stunning with all of the gorgeous scenery to look at while running, but there are a lot of hills so take that into consideration! We had planned to get into Sedona on Thursday afternoon, but with the horrible winter storm that hit, our flights were cancelled and we ended up getting into Sedona late Friday night. Thank goodness bib pick up was from 3-8pm! (Shirts had to be picked up after the race). We drove to the start and got there around 7am. Lots of parking available. Half marathon started right on time at 8am. The course is out and back so you know if you are going up hill going out, you will be doing down hill on the way back and vice versa. It is slightly MORE uphill on the first half of the course so I actually ran faster the second half of the race since there were more downhills. But the last half mile was uphill. Finish line was good, medals were nice, and the technical shirts (short sleeve) were nice too. (No dates or distances on the shirts though, that is my only complaint.) Overall, would highly recommend this race to anyone!