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Haunted 5K, 10K, 13.1M & 26.2M at Des Moines, IA (41)

Haunted 5K, 10K, 13.1M & 26.2M at Des Moines, IA (41)

Des Moines' Haunted races offer a unique blend of spooky fun and serious running.

Race Date

Oct 10, 2026

Location

Des Moines, IA

Quick facts

Date
Saturday, October 10, 2026
Location
Des Moines, Iowa
Distance
Half marathon (13.1 mi)
Course
Out & Back
Terrain
Road
USATF certified
Not listed

Highlights

Good For

PR FriendlyBeginner Friendly

Atmosphere

Party FinishGreat MedalWell Organized

Course

Fast Flat

The Experience

The Haunted races in Des Moines transform the city's paths into a festive, fall-themed running event. Runners can choose from a 5K, 10K, half marathon, or full marathon, all starting at 8:00 AM under typical autumn skies, with average temperatures ranging from 51–70°F.

The courses are primarily out-and-back routes, offering a straightforward path for runners aiming for personal bests. The 5K and 10K utilize a 3.11-mile out-and-back, while the half and full marathons extend this loop for their respective distances. The generous 6-hour time limit ensures that participants of all paces can enjoy the experience.

Beyond the running, the event embraces its 'Haunted' theme with awards for the best costumes, adding a playful element to the competition. Finisher medals and series points are awarded, recognizing the efforts of all participants. This event, organized by US Road Running, provides a well-supported and engaging race day for the Des Moines running community.

Race-provided description

US Road Running Races US Road Running races are built for runners and walkers who like friendly, low-pressure race days with just enough competition to keep things exciting. Our events are local, welcoming, and easy to jump into, whether you are chasing a PR, collecting another themed medal, working toward series points, or just getting outside with good people. Most races are small enough to feel personal but organized enough to feel official. You can expect a clear course, helpful race staff, finisher medals, results, and a relaxed community feel. Bring your fast shoes, your steady walking pace, your favorite running buddy, or your best “I signed up for this on purpose” smile. We will be glad to see you at the start line. A quick race-day note: because many US Road Running events are small local races, we normally have one or two staff members at each race. EMS is not stationed on site, and water stations are limited to the finish area at the end of each lap and at the race finish. Please plan for the weather, bring anything you may want between laps, and check in with race staff if you need help. View Race Course, Results, and Race Information on the US Road Running race page.

Logistics

Race Day

Saturday, October 10, 2026

Start Time

8:00 AM

Start Location

2816 Shoreline Road, Des Moines, IA, 50320

Directions

Course Info

Course Type

Out & Back

Terrain

road

Scenery

Urban

Surface

Paved

Difficulty

Ultra-Flat

Course Map

Quality Score

Methodology
Heritage0/20

first year

Size0/15

no finisher counts yet

Momentum3/5

small race — neutral

Loyalty0/20

needs a few years of results

Course & details2/15

limited extras

National draw0/10

no finisher data yet

Front-pack speed0/5

no winner time yet

Weather5/10

typical high 70°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (Low)

51°

Afternoon (High)

70°

Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish

0.1"

Precipitation

12 mph

Wind

61%

Humidity

Frequently asked

When is the Haunted 5K, 10K, 13.1M & 26.2M at Des Moines, IA (41)?

The Haunted 5K, 10K, 13.1M & 26.2M at Des Moines, IA (41) is held on Saturday, October 10, 2026, starting at 8:00 AM.

Where does the Haunted 5K, 10K, 13.1M & 26.2M at Des Moines, IA (41) take place?

It takes place in Des Moines, Iowa.

What distances does the Haunted 5K, 10K, 13.1M & 26.2M at Des Moines, IA (41) offer?

The half marathon (13.1 miles).

Is the Haunted 5K, 10K, 13.1M & 26.2M at Des Moines, IA (41) course flat and good for a PR?

The Haunted 5K, 10K, 13.1M & 26.2M at Des Moines, IA (41) is a ultra-flat, out & back course.

HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.

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