If you’re looking to PR your next half then we’ve rounded up a list of the fastest half marathons to help make it possible. We almost said fastest half marathons in the US, but then snuck in Toronto, so ok North America.
What contributes to a fast half marathon course?
- Cooler weather
- Flat or net downhill
- Less crowded
- Well-executed
Remember that weather is never guaranteed and a steep downhill course requires extra knee strength! It’s not an automatic PR just because it sounds easier. Checkout our 7 Tips For Downhill Running to level up your chances of a great race day.
10 Fastest Half Marathons
Let’s get down to it! After decades of coaching runners, asking for feedback through our weekly online polls and research, we’ve narrowed the list down to these races.
Naples Half Marathon
Date: January 18th, 2026
Location: Naples, FL, USA
Type: Loop
Profile: Fast and Flat
One of the most notable things about this race is that since it winds through neighborhoods in the town of Naples, it has a zero-foot elevation gain.
The course is well-organized and USATF-certified, meaning that you will be able to trust your times and the distance as measured.
The weather in January in Florida is typically mild, though runners may still have to account for some humidity or ocean breezes during the beachfront portions of the course.
The route is scenic, as it includes urban and waterfront views, but the terrain is paved and even, without surprises like uneven spots or elevation changes.
James 0802 really enjoyed his experience there:
I was scheduled to do this race last year, but had to defer due to injury. (Very easy to defer.) This year we were threatened by a storm front blowing through but it cleared just before the start.
Luckily most of the parking was in covered garages very near the start line. The race organizers gave us good advance notice of the possibility of a delay due to lightning but none materialized.
The race course is entirely residential through some posh Naples neighborhoods. Hydration stations (Gatorade and water) and porta potties were plentiful. Several out and back cul-de-sacs allowed you to repeatedly see friends both ahead of and behind you.
Photos excellent although not free
Finish line, medal, and post race great with free beer!
San Francisco Half Marathon
Date: Feb 1st, 2026
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
Type: Point-to-Point
Profile: Slightly Downhill (200 feet)
The San Francisco Half Marathon is mostly flat throughout, especially as it winds through Golden Gate Park and along the beachfront, and there’s a slight elevation drop of around 200 feet in the second half of the race.
It’s also USATF-certified and is run on smooth, urban roads, which will give runners solid footing throughout.
The environment and climate are both pleasant and could boost your mental game. Fresh air off the bay should be enough to lift anyone’s spirits!
Runner MHouser thought it was a great choice for his first time:
Although it was challenging due to high winds and rain, I loved this race! I power walked and got a personal best.
Walkers expect things to be closed down by the time we finish but it’s disappointing when that’s the case. The finish line stated it would be open for 4 hours so when I finished at 3:08 most things were already put away, this could be due to weather but not sure.
Definitely a race I want to do again, just a crap shoot with weather being the first weekend in Feb. Absolutely loved going through the park and along the Great Highway.
Gorgeous!!!!
Mesa Half Marathon
Date: February 14th, 2026
Location: Mesa, AZ, USA
Type: Point-to-Point
Profile: Slightly Downhill (200 feet)
You can’t miss with the Arizona weather in the depths of winter everywhere else, which is one of the reasons Coach Amanda often recommends this one.
The course is also mostly flat, with a gentle net elevation loss of around 200 feet from start to finish. You won’t have to worry about your pacing suffering due to hills or other issues with terrain.
This should allow you to settle into a rhythm that could be sustained through the entire race.
This is a notoriously well-organized race with paved roads, frequent aid stations, and a group of motivated runners. Arizona’s climate typically cooperates as well.
Racer tiagayetfa says he loved it, and would return, too.
I was running this as a training run for an Ultra, so not going for a Personal Best. It was easy to find the busses. We stayed about 15 min away. Traffic was very backed up as we approached the exit on the highway.
Thankfully we left early enough to we didn’t have to rush. Staging area was energetic, plenty of portalets.
The first few miles were pretty steep downhill, then I believe in Mile 4, you had a nice climb for what seemed like a mile or so. After that it will still downhill, but not steep anymore.
It a very gentle downhill. It was not very scenic, as there’s not much to see in Mesa. Everything was just brown, the houses, buildings, etc.
But there’s so much nearby that it makes a great destination race. We went to Sedona after the race and stayed there a few days.
By mile 19, it had gotten pretty warm but had it stayed cool, this is a great BQ course. If I could predict the weather, I’d come back to BQ for sure!
Even without really trying I ran a decent race. Nice medal, and loved that they offered a tank top as a shirt option. I prefer that.
Indy Mini
Date: May 2nd, 2026
Location: Indianapolis, IN, USA
Type: Loop
Profile: Fast and Flat
Many athletes perform well at this fast half-marathon in Indianapolis, and there are also a couple of perks that sets it apart from every other half-marathon out there.
The course is flat with no significant hills and no real elevation changes, both of which are good for steady pacing and negative splits. It’s run mostly on straight, urban roads, except for a 2.5-mile loop around the Indianapolis Speedway. Those speedway miles feature smooth, banked pavement and lanes wide enough for all runners. It’s basically the most predictable running surface imaginable.
The weather is typically moderate to cool in Indy at this time of year, which means higher aerobic efficiency for you, and even though it is one of the largest half-marathons in the States, it’s efficient and well-run.
Many runners think the music, crowds, and energy add to the experience and provide even more motivation.
sdalessio thinks this one really stands out:
This is a great race. It has a few areas that could use improvement but overall I highly recommend going if you can. If you are a sports fan, it’s a must.
The well organized and attended Expo was at the Lucas Oil Stadium where the Colts play. It was fun to walk around the stadium and see things. Lots of booths and vendors which felt like the old days pre Covid for a big race (about 18k half runners).
The race is also right downtown so there is plenty to see and do pre/post race. The race’s hospitality portal for hotels was easy and efficient.
Race morning was a little drizzly but plenty of areas to find cover. The 4 corrals did a good job organizing people and the race started on time.
For the most part the course scenery was street/neighborhood but lots of live music and lots of people so very well supported.
And THEN the speedway where they run the Indy 500 was SO awesome. 2.5 miles to soak in the track, grandstands and just all of it. Fortunately we got to avoid most of the high banked surface by running across roads but a long stretch down the finish line track was so cool.
Frank Shorter (’72 Olympic marathon champion) was at the finish line to cheer on runners . I got a selfie with him.
The rest of the race was back to the road and home to the finish area. There was a brief section through IU and some students were out. Finish was a nice wide open run down a pretty tree lined street.
So my only real knock is the finish line food. Just Kroger snacks which would be fine for a smaller race but this was a BIG race and I thought something better would have been nice. Medal and shirt were great!
IU Health also gave away a nice running hat at the expo so that was also a bonus and should count as swag.
Slacker Half Marathon
Date: June 20th, 2026
Location: Loveland, CO, USA
Type: Point-to-Point
Profile: Downhill (2,380 feet)
This race begins in the Loveland Ski Area at an elevation of 10,880 feet. From there, runners make their way downhill through wetlands, waterfalls, and breathtaking views.
The path is paved, sometimes traversing paved bike trails and other times solid roads.
The race finishes in Georgetown, CO, at an elevation of 8,500 feet, and the post-race activities won’t disappoint. Whether freebies, craft beer, or entertainment and pampering are your thing, you’re going to get your fill.
The net downhill and even terrain make for a fast race, and the weather in Colorado in June is typically temperate and cooperative as well.
Runner Sam Derusso agrees this was a great experience overall:
This absolutely gorgeous race was such a blast.
You start at the ski area & it’s just beautiful. a bit chilly so prepare with some layers to shed. They make gear check super easy so you can toss layers right before the start.
TONS of port a potties. Like loads.
The mass start was a little bottle necked but perhaps due to some mud on the first part of the path. The views were just gorgeous.Be ready for some Colorado sunshine on the second half. It’s stunning though! The altitude was a fun challenge for a sea level out of towner.
The finish was in a cute little town and plenty of space for family to spectate. Tons to see in the town after. Nice medal, nice shirt and a bag you get at the end with everything. It was great!
Also hot dogs and other food at the end which was cool!
Loved this race and really enjoyed the morning! Really well done on all levels.
Jack and Jill Half Marathon
Date: July 25th, 2026
Location: North Bend, WA
Type: Point-to-Point
Profile: Downhill (1,100 feet)
The substantial loss of elevation in this race is just one of the things that makes it fast, but it is a substantial factor.
Another point in speed’s favor is that the slope is gentle, losing about 80 feet per mile, so it’s not too steep. More of your energy will go toward momentum as opposed to changing slope angle.
The course is an old railway bed, so it’s hard-packed dirt and gravel as opposed to asphalt, which does make it a little more challenging than a road race. That said, it’s smooth enough for regular trainers.
There are some unusual scenic treats, like a 2-mile historic railroad tunnel, but much of it is beautiful forest/mountains/woods that aren’t too distracting.
Being able to relax and take in the natural world around you means being able to focus on your breathing and pace rather than traffic, other runners, crowds, etc.
Runner jalderink says you should definitely check it out for yourself.
Cons: No frills finish line and it’s not easy to find for family/friends. Not much for communication prior to race.
Pros: Basically all downhill so easy going! Smaller race so family/friends can stand near the finish line to catch runners crossing. Plenty of water stations.
Any con stated is easily overshadowed by the beauty of this course!
Would highly recommend if you are looking for a Washington State run!
Revel Big Cottonwood Half
Date: September 12, 2026
Location: Salt Lake City, UT, USA
Type: Point-to-Point
Profile: Downhill (2,856 feet)
This is a big elevation drop and it’s achieved as you descend through the canyons of the Wasatch Mountains, which offer fast downhills and amazing views.
The course itself is mostly road surface, which keeps your footing predictable and won’t impact your pacing. This is another one that’s USATF-certified, so all of the measurements are accurate as well.
Many runners consider this race a great opportunity for personal records due to these factors, but you also won’t regret the sights and sounds of the Utah mountains along the way.
IanS8810 says it’s a fast course, for sure:
The big downhill was great for having a fast time, it’s still worth noting that the race is at elevation, and flattens out the last couple miles, so those temper the impact from the downhill, but regardless, this is a fast race.
Well-produced and cool afterparty, but go to bag check soon after finishing, as that line eventually got huge.
Also be prepared to waddle after this one, as the downhill will do a number on your legs.
I was more sore than after just about any other race I’ve done, even though I did fairly well compared to other recent races.
Chicago Half Marathon
Date: September 27, 2026
Location: Chicago, IL, USA
Type: Loop
Profile: Fast and Flat
The Chicago Half-Marathon is known as one of the flattest and fastest half marathons out there. This is largely due to the very minimal elevation changes, long interrupted stretches, and virtually no hills to challenge your pace.
The flat course means it’s great for predictable pacing and fast splits, and the exclusive access to Lake Shore Drive offers smooth, high-quality pavement. You won’t find cobblestones, broken terrain, or tricky footing on any portion of this mostly-straight course.
The Chicago weather in late September is typically moderate, though runners could still have to contend with some early-autumn heat or winds off the lake.
You also would be hard-pressed to find a better managed race, and the use of the corral system and different pace groups means you’ll likely be among runners with similar times.
joyruns would definitely recommend this one:
Expo: Race shirt is long sleeves, reusable bag with sunglasses, Gatorade 10pk, rain poncho, protein shake mix and cowbell in it.
Participants were bused to the start of the race (which was 7.5 miles out), the shuttle picked runners up in Belmont or Millenium Park. Bus started transport at 4:45am.
This was too early for me because the race started at 7am.
Ample water station throughout the course with both water and Gatorade. Crowd support on the highway, it was an out and back FLAT course.
Post-race food (water, Gatorade, pizza, bananas and chips). A HUGE finisher medal.
I highly recommend this race. Buses shuttle participants back to the location they were picked up at.
I will definitely repeat this race.
Toronto Waterfront Half Marathon
Date: October 18th, 2026
Location: Toronto, ON, Canada
Type: Loop
Profile: Fast and Flat
This race is described as “flat, fast, and festive,” and the organizers do their best to deliver on all three promises year after year.
The elevation change over the course is modest, which should allow for steady pacing throughout, leaving you the opportunity to save a burst of energy for the finish line.
It takes place on a paved surface, which eliminates the need to overthink your footing, and the scenery near Lake Ontario’s waterfront is lovely.
The breezes off the lake also help keep the temperature modest most years, which can also help your body conserve energy.
The race is well organized and attracts a decent crowd, which most agree boosts motivation when it starts to lag through tougher segments.
pkroon says there’s nothing missing from the experience:
TCS took on title sponsorship of the Toronto Waterfront Marathon in 2022, and in full disclosure I am an employee of TCS so I got to benefit from their hospitality at the start/finish. This took the race to the next level for me, but from my observation it was great for other participants just the same.
I enjoyed the downtown start and finish centered around a main park and that the marathon took me past much of the city and along Lake Ontario. There was great support along the way.
One thing I hadn’t counted on was needing to do some mental calculations coming down the stretch since there were no mile markers on the course (in Canada, of course, they measure with KM).
Being a half mile away from the finish line and not knowing exactly how far it was behind the last curve, I found a second gear and made my BQ with a few seconds to spare. Goal met–time to celebrate!
The race also had a virtual option to do the whole shebang in the month of October–a 5K, a half marathon, and the marathon, which I did in person.
Rehoboth Beach Seashore Half Marathon
Date: December, 2026
Location: Rehoboth Beach, DE, USA
Type: Loop
Profile: Fast and Flat
If you’re someone who prefers smaller races, less of a crowd, and don’t want to sacrifice on speed or scenery… this one might be for you!
There’s almost no elevation change over the course, and most of the course is run near sea level. There won’t be any hills to challenge your stamina or cause you to have to change pace. The paved surfaces alternate between roads, boardwalk, and trail, but all of them are well-travelled and not overly technical.
Overall, the path is very predictable, especially in the second half when your energy might be lower.
The weather in coastal Delaware during December is typically cool but not cold, which is generally considered the best climate for distance runners. The coastal winds can also help with both pace and comfort on an ideal day.
The race itself is well-organized, pleasantly cozy, and runners find it enjoyable and easy on their stress levels.
mkbaker360 says it’s a must-do – and maybe more than once:
December is the perfect time to visit Rehoboth Beach and this race is a must do in Delaware. Cool weather, ocean breezes and given it’s not high season there is room to move and explore the area. Great beach town with boardwalks and plenty of restaurants that are open even in the “off season”.
Easy marathon logistics, stayed in a Hilton within walking distance of the start and finish. There are lots of options to choose from within walking distance. Great communication and race organization. Expo was a small outdoor event.
Race course is a lovely mix of seaside boardwalk, paths through seaside marsh lands and some neighborhoods. Mostly flat. Easy options for spectators to cheer you on throughout.
Afterparty was excellent with plenty of food and drink options and a party atmosphere.
Love the vibe around this race and it’s one I hope to do again.
What half marathons have you done that other runners need to know about?
There are so many fast half marathons, but we had to whittle down the list somewhere!
What to read next?
- Free Half Marathon Training Plans
- Half Marathon Check list
- 18 Half Marathon Tips I Wish I’d Known Before My First
- Sub 1:45 Half Marathon Plan
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