2026 Run the Parkway
Run the Parkway: a small, fast half marathon along the American River, benefiting the parkway foundation.
Race Date
Nov 8, 2026
Location
Carmichael, CA
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, November 8, 2026
- Location
- Carmichael, California
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
The Experience
First run in 2016, Run the Parkway draws around 220 runners each year, with roughly 16% returning annually. Participants come from about five states to race this course, which also serves as the official training run for the California International Marathon. The typical winning time of 67:54 hints at a swift, forgiving route.
The out-and-back course follows the paved American River Parkway, shaded by riverside trees and mostly flat. November race-day weather averages 49–65°F, ideal for a fast effort. A concurrent 20-mile run and untimed nature walk open the event to all fitness levels. All proceeds benefit the American River Parkway Foundation, giving every mile a clear purpose.
Race-provided description
[image: https://runsra.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/RTP20252-4.webp]
Run the Parkway
November 8, 2026
Benefiting the American River Parkway Foundation
20-Mile, Half Marathon, Untimed Nature Walk
[image: Run the Parkway Sacramento Running Association https://runsra.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/RTP-2023-1139-EDIT.jpg]
Sacramento’s only running event that 100% benefits the American River Parkway Foundation!
The Sacramento Running Association (https://runsra.org) and the American River Parkway Foundation (http://www.arpf.org/) are proud to partner on the annual Run the Parkway event, and the Official Training Run of the California International Marathon (https://runsra.org/california-international-marathon/)! Proceeds from Run the Parkway will benefit the American River Parkway Foundation to help it further its mission of supporting the preservation and enjoyment of the Parkway, the “crown jewel” of Sacramento Parks (http://www.sacparks.net).
[image: https://runsra.
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Lake River, Park
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Rolling Hills
Quality Score
Standout679 years running
~226 finishers a year
shrinking
16% returning runners
limited extras
runners from 5 states
winner 1:07:54
typical high 60°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
46°
Afternoon (High)
60°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.1"
Precipitation
10 mph
Wind
80%
Humidity
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the 2026 Run the Parkway?
The 2026 Run the Parkway is held on Sunday, November 8, 2026.
Where does the 2026 Run the Parkway take place?
It takes place in Carmichael, California.
What distances does the 2026 Run the Parkway offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2026 Run the Parkway course flat and good for a PR?
The 2026 Run the Parkway is a rolling hills, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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