High Mountain Half Marathon Decade Anniversary 2026

The High Mountain Half Marathon offers the perfect escape from summer heat with a challenging high-altitude race experience in the cool pine forests of Lakeside, Arizona. Set at elevations between 7,000-8,000 feet, this destination race weekend features a half marathon, 10K, 5K, and unique Friday night Glow Run/Walk, making it ideal for runners seeking cooler temperatures and mountain scenery.

The signature half marathon follows a scenic point-to-point course starting with a 4:40 AM bus departure from Blue Ridge High School for a crisp 6:00 AM start. Runners descend through beautiful cedar and pine forests along Porter Mountain before finishing on the Blue Ridge High School track. The challenging altitude and 4-hour time limit make this an excellent training race for fall marathons while providing a refreshing mountain getaway.

Beyond standard race amenities, the High Mountain Half Marathon is known for its exceptional local touches. Pre-race swag features an assortment of products made and sold locally in the Pinetop area, while finishers receive unique medallions and custom wood trophies for top performers. The event includes plenty of aid stations, post-race food, and a Friday night Kids Run (free for ages 0-12) plus the Glow Run/Walk at 8:30 PM, creating a full weekend of mountain running adventures for the whole family.