If you're looking for a half marathon that combines jaw-dropping scenery with a legit shot at a personal record, the Drop13 Big Cottonwood Canyon on Saturday, June 13, 2026, deserves a spot on your calendar. This race is widely considered the fastest half marathon in Utah—and for good reason. It drops over 3,000 feet in elevation from start to finish, giving you gravity as a training partner. But it's not just about speed; the course winds through a canyon bursting with spring green, a roaring river, and mountain views that will make you forget you're working hard.
The Course: A Fast, Scenic Descent
The Drop13 starts at Solitude Ski Resort and follows a point-to-point route down Big Cottonwood Canyon to Cottonwood Heights City. Despite the significant elevation loss, the race is classified as flat in terms of difficulty—meaning the grade is consistent and runnable, not steep or technical. This makes it ideal for runners targeting a PR, as the downhill nature allows for fast times without hammering your quads the way a steeper course might. Along the way, you'll run alongside a river swollen with spring runoff and through forests in full green glory. It's the kind of course that distracts you from the effort with pure beauty.
The Experience: Medals Galore and a Celebratory Vibe
Part of what makes the Drop13 so fun is the medal system. Every finisher gets a 4-inch finisher medal. But if you set a personal record, you earn a special PR medal. And if you lose 13 pounds during training and the race (honor system), you get a Drop13lbs medal. Age group winners also get a medal, meaning some runners go home with up to four pieces of hardware. The atmosphere is supportive and celebratory—think high-fives at the finish line and a shared sense of accomplishment among runners who just conquered a canyon.
Who This Race Is For
- PR seekers: The net downhill profile, combined with a well-organized course, makes this a prime target for a new half marathon best. Many runners leave with a PR and a medal to prove it.
- First-timers: If you're new to the distance, a downhill course can make the experience more manageable and even more enjoyable. Just be smart about pacing—let gravity help but don't let it carry you into a wall.
- 50-state chasers: Utah is a beautiful state to check off, and this race gives you a scenic, fast experience that's worth the trip.
- Medal collectors: With up to four possible medals, this is a race that rewards effort and achievement in multiple ways.
Logistics and Weather
The race takes place on June 13, 2026, in Holladay, Utah. Typical race-day temperatures range from a low of 62°F to a high of 85°F. Since the course starts at a higher elevation (Solitude Ski Resort), it will be cooler at the start and warm up as you descend. Plan for sun protection and hydration. The race is a point-to-point, so check the website for shuttle and parking details.
Ready to Drop In?
If you're ready for a fast, beautiful half marathon that comes with a serious medal payoff, the Drop13 Big Cottonwood Canyon is waiting. Register now before it sells out—June 13 will be here before you know it.