2026 Valley of Fire Marathon Half Marathon
Valley of Fire's trail half marathon winds through stunning desert sandstone.
Race Date
Nov 21, 2026
Location
Overton, NV
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, November 21, 2026
- Location
- Overton, Nevada
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Trail
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
The Experience
The Valley of Fire Marathon Half Marathon is a small but mighty trail running festival held in Nevada's stunning Valley of Fire State Park. With a median field of just 70 finishers and drawing runners from about 16 states, this event offers an intimate experience amid the Mojave Desert's fiery red-rock landscapes. The course loops through ancient sandstone formations and past petroglyphs, with aid stations and hot food provided to keep runners fueled.
Now in its 17th edition (as of 2022), the race is part of a larger ultra festival that includes distances from 1 mile to 100 miles. Participants can camp on-site and enjoy outdoor movies, live music, and karaoke, creating a festive, community atmosphere. While the half marathon field is small, the desert setting and post-race party make it a memorable destination race for those seeking something off the beaten path.
Race-provided description
The Fire Fest Ultra is a trail running festival held in the Mojave Desert's Valley of Fire State Park, featuring distances from 1 mile to 100 miles, including marathon and half marathon options. The course loops through stunning sandstone formations and past ancient petroglyphs, with aid stations and hot food provided. Participants can camp on site and enjoy outdoor movies, music, and karaoke.
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
trail
Scenery
Desert, Park
Surface
Dirt Trail
Difficulty
Rolling Hills
Quality Score
Solid Pick5317 years running
~70 finishers a year
shrinking
4% returning runners
limited extras
runners from 16 states
winner 1:44:34
typical high 64°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
45°
Afternoon (High)
64°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.0"
Precipitation
10 mph
Wind
49%
Humidity
Frequently asked
When is the 2026 Valley of Fire Marathon Half Marathon?
The 2026 Valley of Fire Marathon Half Marathon is held on Saturday, November 21, 2026.
Where does the 2026 Valley of Fire Marathon Half Marathon take place?
It takes place in Overton, Nevada.
What distances does the 2026 Valley of Fire Marathon Half Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2026 Valley of Fire Marathon Half Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The 2026 Valley of Fire Marathon Half Marathon is a rolling hills, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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