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2026 Lakeside Marathon & Nevada Half Marathon

The Nevada Half Marathon climbs from Lake Tahoe's shore to Spooner Summit, descending to Nevada.

Race Date

Oct 16, 2026

Location

South Lake Tahoe, NV

Solid Pick45

Quick facts

Date
Friday, October 16, 2026
Location
South Lake Tahoe, Nevada
Distance
Half marathon (13.1 mi)
Course
Point to Point
Terrain
Road
USATF certified
Not listed

Highlights

Good For

Destination WorthyHidden Gem

Atmosphere

Low KeyGreat SwagWell Supported

Course

Scenic Route

The Experience

Starting on the California shore of Lake Tahoe, the Nevada Half Marathon climbs to Spooner Summit at 7,000 feet before descending into Incline Village, Nevada. This point-to-point course on paved roads and bike paths offers runners stunning views of the alpine lake and surrounding mountains. With a small field averaging around 210 finishers, the race maintains an intimate, low-key atmosphere. Aid stations are spaced every few miles, and the finish line welcomes runners with medals, long-sleeve shirts, and license plate holders.

The course is a challenging one, with a significant climb in the first half, but the downhill second half rewards efforts with fast splits. The event has been held since at least 2011, with six editions on record. Though it draws runners from only a handful of states, the scenic beauty of Lake Tahoe makes it a worthy destination for those seeking a smaller, community-driven half marathon. The race also counts toward 50-state marathon quests, adding a layer of appeal for collectors.

Race-provided description

The Lakeside Marathon is a point-to-point course starting at Lakeside Beach in California at 6230' elevation, climbing to 7000' at Spooner Summit, then descending to finish in Incline Village, Nevada. The Nevada Half Marathon joins the marathon near Spooner Summit and ends at the same finish line. Supported by at least six aid stations, the race is run on road shoulders or bike paths and counts toward 50-state marathon quests. Each finisher receives a medal, license plate holder, and long-sleeve shirt.

Logistics

Race Day

Friday, October 16, 2026

Start Time

TBA

Start Location

South Lake Tahoe, NV

Directions

Course Info

Course Type

Point to Point

Terrain

road

Scenery

Lake River, Mountain

Difficulty

Hilly

Quality Score

Solid Pick45
Methodology
Heritage12/20

6 years running

Size12/15

~210 finishers a year

Momentum0/5

shrinking

Loyalty5/20

5% returning runners

Course & details0/15

limited extras

National draw4/10

runners from 4 states

Front-pack speed3/5

winner 1:18:38

Weather10/10

typical high 59°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (Low)

41°

Afternoon (High)

59°

Ideal racing weather — cool and comfortable

0.0"

Precipitation

8 mph

Wind

56%

Humidity

Frequently asked

When is the 2026 Lakeside Marathon & Nevada Half Marathon?

The 2026 Lakeside Marathon & Nevada Half Marathon is held on Friday, October 16, 2026.

Where does the 2026 Lakeside Marathon & Nevada Half Marathon take place?

It takes place in South Lake Tahoe, Nevada.

What distances does the 2026 Lakeside Marathon & Nevada Half Marathon offer?

The half marathon (13.1 miles).

Is the 2026 Lakeside Marathon & Nevada Half Marathon course flat and good for a PR?

The 2026 Lakeside Marathon & Nevada Half Marathon is a hilly, point to point course.

HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.

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