1) Operation Jack Half Marathon • Playa del Rey, CA
Racing parallel to the Pacific Ocean, the Operation Jack Half Marathon is a fast, flat course. Runners are welcome to bring their strollers and instructed to start in the back of the pack with their extra cargo. The out-and-back course at sea level won’t make the stroller load any lighter, but at least it is flat!
2) Running Between The Vines Half Marathon • Jackson, MS
It might seem a bit counter-intuitive to bring the kids out to a running event associate with wine, but the Running Between The Vines Half Marathon happens to be stroller-friendly. The hilly course is held mostly on well-groomed dirt roads, but runners have 3.5 hours to finish the course. Once racers cross the finish line and collect their finishers wine glass, they can hang out at a post-race party featuring music, wine tastings, and food.
3) The Double Half Marathon • San Antonio, TX
The Double Half Marathon is a race day full of activities for everyone. With 5K, 10K, and half marathons offered at both 7:30 AM and 4:30 PM, runners can choose their perfect distance. Plus, strollers and leashed dogs are welcome to join the fun. All events are held on the Leon Creek Greenway, a paved trail in the heart of San Antonio.
4) FitOne Half Marathon • Boise, ID
Participants running in the FitOne Half Marathon are allowed to race with a running stroller, but instructed to hang out in the last corral at the start for safety reasons. The point-to-point course is nearly one large loop around downtown Boise, but stroller-accommodating shuttle buses will be available before the start. Don’t forget to save a bit of energy for the final miles of this rolling hills course, as there is a quite a climb near mile 11.
5) Lewis-Clark Half Marathon • Lewiston, ID
Touted as being stroller, walker, and dog friendly, the Lewis-Clark Half Marathon is also a bargain at just $10. Those wanting a tech shirt momento pay just $25. The beautiful out-and-back course travels along the Snake River along the paved Greenbelt Trail from Granite Lake Park to Asotin.
6) Runaway Pumpkin Half Marathon • Lebanon, OR
Not only does the Runaway Pumpkin Half Marathon allow running strollers, they have great etiquette tips posted on their website about them as well. The loop course runs mostly parallel to the South Santiam River. This mid-October race encourages runners to wear their favorite Halloween costume and vie for one of the best dressed awards.
7) Hill Country Half Marathon • Marble Falls, TX
Runners are encouraged to make the Hill Country Half Marathon a family affair and bring their running strollers to the race. Be warned that there will be 2 large, steep hills to conquer and not many flat sections. However, racers will have 6 hours to cross the finish line at the Marble Falls Mustang track. As an extra sweet reward, all finishers will be rewarded with a pie from Bluebonnet Cafe.
8) Eugene Holiday Half & A Hustle • Eugene, OR
The out-and-back course of the Eugene Holiday Half in Eugene, Oregon, is 100% paved and open to runners with strollers. Racers will cruise through a wetlands sanctuary and enjoy beautiful views on this scenic course. With a 4-hour course limit and very little elevation change, this half marathon is a fantastic option for runners with little ones in tow.
9) Germantown Half Marathon • Germantown, TN
The loop course of the Germantown Half Marathon takes runners through the rolling hills of one of Memphis’ finest neighborhoods. This race offers $6,400 in prize money for the 13.1 mile distance, but happens to be stroller-friendly as well. Stick around for the post-race food catered by Jim ‘N Nick’s BBQ and awards ceremony.
10) Runner’s Den/Fiesta Bowl Half Marathon • Scottsdale, AZ
With an early start option and strollers allowed, the Runner’s Den/Fiesta Bowl Half Marathon encourages all kinds of runners to join the race festivities. The fast and flat loop tours scenic Scottsdale and Gainey Ranch. Invite your fast friends too, as cash prizes are awarded to the top three male and female finishers and awards go three deep in 5-year age categories.
