What should I expect from the course?
The route is heavily centered on the Boise Greenbelt, which means you're getting a beautiful, scenic river environment rather than just staring at city traffic. However, don't expect a textbook road course. The organizers have been transparent about the "wildcard" nature of the Greenbelt—you need to be prepared for potential sidewalk construction, sinkholes, or even flooding that might force route changes. It’s a beautiful, organic route, but it lacks the sterile predictability of a major city marathon.
Is the weather going to be a factor?
October in Boise is usually the "sweet spot" for distance running, but it’s not a guarantee. You can expect crisp, cool mornings—perfect for high-effort racing—but the river environment can create microclimates. Keep an eye on the forecast for sudden temperature shifts or dampness if the river levels are high.
What are my distance and timing options?
You have four ways to participate: the Marathon and Half Marathon both kick off at 8:00 a.m., while the 10K and 5K start shortly after at 8:15 a.m. All races feature mass starts and chip timing, so don't worry about your pace being lost in the crowd. If you're a slower mover, don't panic—the course officially closes at 2:00 p.m., though the organizers have noted they’ll stay out to help finishers cross the line.
How much is this going to cost me?
The pricing is fairly standard for a well-organized regional race. The Marathon is $115 and the Half Marathon is $105. If you're looking for shorter distances, the 10K is $75 and the 5K is $60. Pro tip: Prices jump after September 30, 2026, so book early to avoid the markup.
What does the race day setup look like?
The logistics are solid. You'll find hydration and nutrition stations (water, electrolytes, and GU gels) roughly every two miles for the marathon and every two miles for the half. For the shorter distances, stations are more sparse (two for the 10K, one for the 5K). If you're bringing a bag, there is a gear check under the black registration tent—just remember it’s for clothing only; don't leave your valuables in there.
What do I get for my registration fee?
While there isn't a specific breakdown of medals, all registrants are guaranteed a finisher's award. If you are a late registrant (after October 1), you lose the guarantee of a participant T-shirt, so plan your registration accordingly.
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