Drop13 Big Cottonwood Canyon Half Marathon and 5K 2026
The Drop13 Big Cottonwood Canyon Half Marathon and 5K takes place on Saturday, June 13, 2026, in the Holladay and Cottonwood Heights area of Utah. Participants will experience a scenic downhill road race through Big Cottonwood Canyon, characterized by lush greenery and active spring runoff from the nearby river. Early summer weather in this region typically features cooler temperatures at the higher elevation start near Solitude Ski Resort, which gradually warm as runners descend toward the finish in Cottonwood Heights.
What distances and race formats are available?
- →Half Marathon: A 13.1-mile downhill road race starting near Solitude Ski Resort.
- →5K: An out-and-back format starting near the half marathon finish line, with a turnaround at the first half marathon aid station (Mile 2).
- →Virtual DROP13 Race: A run on the participant's own schedule with a bib, medal, and shirt mailed to them.
What is the event schedule and timing?
- →Half Marathon: 6:00 AM MDT start with a 9:30 AM MDT cutoff.
- →Half Marathon Slow Racers: 5:30 AM MDT early start with a 9:30 AM MDT cutoff.
- →5K: 7:30 AM MDT start with a 9:30 AM MDT cutoff.
- →Pacer Half Marathon (Invitation Only): 6:00 AM MDT start.
How much does registration cost?
- →Half Marathon: $97.75
- →Half Marathon VIP Racer: $126.50 (Note: Only 46 spots remaining)
- →Half Marathon Slow Racers: $97.75
- →5K: $45.94
- →Virtual DROP13 Race: $40.00
- →Pacer Half Marathon (Invitation Only): $1,000
Note: Prices increase after May 28, 2026, at 11:59 PM MDT.
Where can I find the course maps?
You can view the specific routes for each distance via the links below:
What awards and medals are available?
Finishers can earn up to four different medals:
- →4" Finisher Medal: Awarded to all finishers.
- →PR Medal: For participants who achieve a personal record.
- →Drop13lbs Medal: For those who lose 13 lbs during training and the race (honor system).
- →Age Group Medal: For category winners.
What amenities and aid stations are provided?
The Half Marathon includes aid stations at miles 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 11.55. Each station provides:
- →Water and Powerade
- →Portable bathrooms
- →Relief Kits (bandaids, feminine napkins, muscle rub heat, body lube)
- →GU Gels (available at Mile 8 only)
The 5K turnaround point includes:
- →Water and Powerade
- →Relief Kit
- →Portable bathrooms
What are the course characteristics?
- →Terrain: Paved road with a net downhill profile.
- →Elevation: A descent of over 3,000 feet across the half marathon distance.
- →Certification: The course is USATF Certified, making it eligible for qualifying times for major races like the NYC and Chicago Marathons.