2026 Hot Springs Half Marathon

The 2026 Hot Springs Half Marathon is scheduled for Saturday, January 31, 2026, in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The event takes place within the National Park Trail System of Hot Springs National Park, utilizing natural-surface hiking trails that traverse forested hills and scenic mountain terrain. Participants can expect a winter trail run featuring rolling hills, dirt paths, and rocky sections. For the date of January 31, participants should prepare for typical winter conditions in Hot Springs, where average high temperatures range from the low to mid-50s°F (10-13°C) and lows can be near freezing, with a chance of cold or wet weather common for the season.

Is this event a trail run?

Yes, this is a trail half marathon. The race takes place on the National Park Trail System in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas, specifically on natural-surface hiking trails through forested hills, historic bathhouse districts, and scenic mountain terrain. As part of the National Park trail network, it features dirt paths, rocky sections, and elevation changes, making it a true trail race rather than a road event. Trail shoes with good traction are strongly recommended.

What distances are available for this event?

• →Half Marathon (13.1 miles) starting at 8:00 AM CST

What is the start time and course cutoff for the half marathon?

• →Start Time: 8:00 AM CST
• →Course Cutoff: 2:00 PM CST (6-hour limit)

What does the registration fee include?

• →Long-sleeve performance shirt
• →Custom bib number
• →Finisher medal for all who complete the course

What are the registration costs?

• →Entry fee: $69

Is there a referral program available?

• →Refer 4 friends using your unique link to get a full refund of your $69 entry fee.
• →Each friend must register separately using your link.
• →Group/family registrations in one transaction do not count.

What are the award categories?

• →Top 3 Overall Male & Female
• →Top 3 Male & Female in each age group:

• 19 & Under

• 20–29

• 30–39

• 40–49

• 50–59

• 60–69

• 70+

When is packet pickup?

• →Early Packet Pickup: Friday, Jan 30 | 4:00–8:00 PM (location TBA)
• →Race Day Pickup: Saturday, Jan 31 | 7:00–8:00 AM at start line

What facilities are available at the event?

• →Restrooms: Portable toilets at start/finish and select points on course

What is the terrain like for this trail race?

The course features natural trails with rolling hills, forested paths, and parkland scenery. It includes dirt paths, rocky sections, and elevation changes typical of the National Park trail network.

What are the event certifications?

The event is ATRA (American Trail Running Association) and Trail Sisters Approved.

Why should I run this event?

• →One of the few National Park trail half marathons in the U.S.
• →Scenic, historic route through thermal springs and Ouachita Mountains
• →Very generous 6-hour cutoff — ideal for walkers and first-time trail runners
• →High-value swag at an affordable price ($69 early)
• →Supports access to and appreciation of America’s public lands