The Deseret News Half Marathon concluded Friday, July 24, 2026, as runners descended through Emigration Canyon to a finish line celebration at Liberty Park. The 13.1-mile course, designed for personal records, featured a gradual 1,600-foot total elevation drop along the historic pioneer trail.
Course Details and Route
The race route took participants from a starting line located a quarter of the way up Little Mountain on the Emigration Canyon side. Runners traveled down a gentle downhill course that eventually merged with the Days '47 Parade route, where an estimated 100,000 spectators lined the streets to cheer athletes toward the finish.
Course Details and Route
In accordance with protocols from the Salt Lake Police Department, the half marathon course was scheduled to close five hours after the 6:00 a.m. start time. Following this window, all remaining runners were directed toward the sidewalks to allow for post-race cleanup at the finish line.
Race Logistics and Support
The event provided various aid stations throughout the 13.1-mile distance, specifically located at miles 3, 5, 10, and 12 for the half marathon participants. These stations offered water and Gatorade to all runners, with additional GU energy gels provided at the mile 7 and mile 10 markers.
Race Logistics and Support
To manage traffic and road closures in Emigration Canyon, organizers utilized a shuttle system. Runners were picked up from Rice-Eccles Stadium between 4:30 a.m. and 4:55 a.m. to be transported to the start line. Following the race, shuttle buses operated along 700 East, between 800 South and 900 South, to return participants to their vehicles at Rice-Eccles Stadium.
Awards and Divisions
The race offered a structured prize system for eligible competitors. The top three fastest men and women received cash prizes of $1,000 for first place, $500 for second place, and $250 for third place. However, eligibility for these awards was strictly limited to past or current Utah residents.
Awards and Divisions
Beyond the elite winners, the event recognized performance across a wide range of age groups. Medals were awarded to the top three finishers in every age division, which spanned from the 11 and under category through much older divisions, including 90+ and various masters categories for those aged 40 and older.
Race Conclusion
The race concluded with a celebration at Liberty Park, where the finish line area hosted food and entertainment for spectators. Organizers noted that while mountain temperatures remained cool during the early morning start, runners could expect significant temperature increases upon reaching the valley, with conditions ranging from 70 to 90 degrees.
