Fall Equinox
The Fall Equinox Half Marathon offers a scenic, net-downhill run through Colorado's Poudre River Canyon.
Race Date
Sep 20, 2026
Location
Fort Collins, CO
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, September 20, 2026
- Location
- Fort Collins, Colorado
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 5 Miles, 13.1 Miles
- Course
- Point to Point
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Yes
- Finishers on record
- 9,711
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
Set against the backdrop of Northern Colorado's stunning Poudre River Canyon, the Fall Equinox Half Marathon is a celebrated event. This point-to-point course, first run in 2012 and now in its 13th edition, offers a net downhill profile, making it a popular choice for those seeking a personal best.
Runners travel from approximately 32 states to experience the picturesque scenery along the Cache la Poudre River, Colorado's only designated Wild & Scenic River. With a median field size of around 1,761 finishers and a growing trend, the race has cultivated a loyal following, with about 20% of participants returning in subsequent years. The event is known for its great swag, including a tech tee, and a festive post-race atmosphere with music and beer.
While the course is largely downhill, reviews mention a gradual descent that is quad-friendly, though some note a sloped road surface and a challenging uphill stretch in the final miles. Logistical considerations include shuttle transportation from parking areas to the start line, as supporters may have limited viewing opportunities along the course.
Race-provided description
"One of the best races in Colorado!" Enjoy the wild & Scenic beauty on the Poudre River Canyon while you run on a downhill point-to-point course to finish in a field of dreams where beer and music flow. Invite your friends & family, don't miss the experience! Event includes 2 great distances: Wild & Scenic Half Marathon: Voted best half marathon and best race shirt in Colorado. Great race to run a new PR, your first half marathon, or just for the beauty and the beer! Enjoy the fall vibes along the Cache la Poudre, Colorado's only designated Wild & Scenic River! Starting at the famous Mishawaka Amphitheater.
First to the Finish 5-Mile: Fast or Festive? You choose. Push yourself past the 5k and run a unique race distance that gets you to the finish line party first! Wait, you are the Party! This race is for all those or love to run or walk in nature and know how to celebrate the good things in life,
Logistics
Race Day
Sunday, September 20, 2026
Start Time
8:00 AM
Giveaway
Event Shirt - Long sleeve
Start Location
Poudre Canyon, Fort Collins, CO, 08524
Course Info
USATF CertifiedCourse Type
Point to Point
Terrain
road
Scenery
Lake River, Mountain
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Rolling Hills
Net Drop/km
+11.71 m
Separation
68.1%
Also Offers
USATF Certified Course
CO25009MWC · Fall Equinox Half Marathon
Net downhill course — fast finishing times are common. Point-to-point course layout.
Course Map
Quality Score
Runner Favorite8614 years running
~1,761 finishers a year
shrinking
23% returning runners
USATF certified · 5 timing sources · 8 photos
runners from 36 states
winner 1:06:58
typical high 77°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
49°
Afternoon (High)
77°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.1"
Precipitation
12 mph
Wind
51%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 9,711 finishers actually crossed the line across 14 years.
Most recent
2026
Total finishers
9,711
Median time
2:12:55
Latest turnout
839
States
49
Turnout by year
2018–2026
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Fall Equinox?
The Fall Equinox was held on Sunday, September 20, 2026, starting at 8:00 AM.
Where does the Fall Equinox take place?
It takes place in Fort Collins, Colorado.
What distances does the Fall Equinox offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 5 Miles, 13.1 Miles.
Is the Fall Equinox course flat and good for a PR?
The Fall Equinox is a rolling hills, point to point course. The course is USATF-certified, so finish times can be used for qualifying.
How many people run the Fall Equinox?
HalfRuns has finish records for 9,711 runners who have completed the Fall Equinox.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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