Palm Desert 1/2 Marathon & 5K

The Palm Desert 1/2 Marathon returns for its 23rd edition on February 15, 2026, offering a flat, fast point-to-point course through the heart of the Coachella Valley. With a median field of ~665 finishers and recent growth to ~874, this USATF-certified race draws runners from 32 states. About 24% of participants return year after year, drawn by the reliable desert weather—typically 51–69°F with low humidity—and the opportunity to set a personal best on a net-downhill, zero-elevation route.

The course winds through Palm Desert's palm-lined streets and desert landscapes, offering a scenic yet straightforward route. The point-to-point layout ensures a fresh perspective from start to finish. Post-race, runners enjoy a finisher medal, official t-shirt, and food, making for a rewarding desert morning. As the Coachella Valley's only half marathon, it's a destination-worthy event that combines a small-town feel with a serious runner's course.