The Deseret News Marathon returned to its historic roots on July 24, 2026, utilizing a throwback course that traces the path traveled by Utah pioneers when they first entered the valley. The event, recognized as the oldest road race in Utah and the fourth oldest marathon west of the continental divide, saw runners navigate a challenging course from Mountain Dell Golf Course to a celebratory finish at Liberty Park.
A Historic and Challenging Course
The 2026 race featured a specialized route designed to honor the event's heritage. Starting at the Mountain Dell Golf Course just below Little Dell Reservoir, the first five miles of the marathon lead toward Big Mountain before the course turns to descend through Emigration Canyon. This specific route, which the organizers noted had not been used with this starting line since 2003, includes a total elevation drop of 1,490 feet.
Despite the challenging terrain, the course is USATF Certified and serves as a Boston Marathon qualifier, offering zero time penalty for runners seeking to qualify for the prestigious international race. While temperatures in the mountains remained relatively cool during the early morning hours, runners entering the valley can expect a significant increase in temperature, with valley conditions varying between 70 and 90 degrees depending on individual pace.
Logistics and Race Day Transit
The marathon began at 5:30 a.m., with participants transported to the starting line via shuttle buses from Rice-Eccles Stadium. These buses departed promptly between 3:45 a.m. and 4:15 a.m. to ensure all runners reached the Mountain Dell area before the start.
Following the race, shuttle buses were stationed at the finish line area along 700 East, between 800 South and 900 South, to transport participants back to their vehicles at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Organizers advised runners to plan accordingly due to potential delays caused by traffic and the presence of the state holiday parade and race route closures.
Celebration at Liberty Park
The race concludes in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City along the Days of '47 Parade route. As runners cross the finish line at Liberty Park, they are greeted by an estimated 100,000 cheering Utahns. The finish line area, located in the northeast corner of the park at 600 E Harvey Milk Blvd, is designed to be a community hub with food and entertainment for spectators and runners alike.
For those looking to view the athletes as they emerge from the canyon, the Hogle Zoo parking lot is recommended as a prime viewing location. The event also maintains various exchange points for the marathon relay at the Hogle Zoo, Rice-Eccles Stadium, and the Liberty Park finish line.
Awards and Competition Divisions
The Deseret News Marathon offers competitive prize money for the top three finishers in both the men's and women's divisions. The first-place winner receives $1,000, second place receives $500, and third place receives $250. These prizes are exclusive to current or former Utah residents.
In addition to monetary awards, all finishers receive custom finisher medals. Age division awards are also presented to the top three competitors in various categories, ranging from 11 and under to the 90+ and Wheelchair categories. The race also includes a Masters Division for athletes aged 40 and older.
Hydration and Aid Stations
To support athletes through the 26.2-mile distance, the marathon provides aid stations at regular intervals, specifically at miles 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, and 25. These stations provide water and Gatorade to all participants.
Specific hydration needs are met by specialized products throughout the course. GU is provided at miles 9, 15, 19, and 23, while Redmond Re-Lyte is made available at mile 23. For runners reaching the later stages of the race, organizers also provide popsicles and oranges to assist with recovery and hydration.
Enduring Utah Tradition
The Deseret News Marathon continues its long-standing tradition as a staple of Utah's athletic heritage. By combining a historic route with modern USATF certification, the event provides a unique platform for both elite runners seeking Boston qualifying times and local residents participating in a community celebration. The race remains one of the strongest road race fields in the state of Utah.
