2026 Santa Fe Thunder Half Marathon and 5K
Santa Fe Thunder: a scenic half marathon with a small, loyal field.
Expected Race Date
~Sep 2026
Date not yet announced — this is when the race usually runs.
Location
Santa Fe, NM
Quick facts
- Date
- around September 2026 (expected)
- Location
- Santa Fe, New Mexico
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Point to Point
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
With a median field of just 198 runners, the Santa Fe Thunder Half Marathon is an intimate affair that draws a loyal following—about 5% of entrants return year after year. Now in its 13th edition (most recently in 2025), this point-to-point race starts at La Tienda Plaza Eldorado and winds along Old Las Vegas Highway before finishing at the Railyard in downtown Santa Fe.
The course is described as scenic, offering stunning views along the way. Typical race-day conditions are near-perfect: temperatures in the 50s and 70s with low humidity and little chance of rain. The small field means less congestion and a more personal experience, with a typical winning time around 1:13:12.
While not the fastest or most famous, the Santa Fe Thunder delivers a sense of community and a genuine taste of New Mexico's high desert beauty. The finish at the historic Railyard is a fitting end to a race that prizes quality over quantity.
Race-provided description
Welcome to the 5th annual Santa Fe International Half Marathon!From September 18 to 20, 2026, experience a weekend of culture, connection, and community. Capitol Ford presents the fifth annual Santa Fe International Half Marathon. This event welcomes runners of all ages and abilities, whether you're looking for a personal best, trying out a new challenge, or bringing your family for a fun day. It's also an opportunity for community members, health enthusiasts, and visitors to get together, learn about Santa Fe's vibrant culture, and make a difference. This year, we are proud to run for water in collaboration with the Kitany Water Project to help bring clean, sustainable water to underserved communities. Get more information about our water project. https://www.wefta.net/priority-projects/kitany-water-project/ Race Options: Half Marathon: A scenic 13.1-mile race starting at La Tienda Plaza Eldorado point-to-point through Old Las Vegas Highway and finishing at the Railyard, offering stunning views …
Course Info
Course Type
Point to Point
Terrain
road
Scenery
Urban
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Rolling Hills
Quality Score
Solid Pick4813 years running
~198 finishers a year
shrinking
5% returning runners
limited extras
runners from 1 state
winner 1:13:12
typical high 73°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
52°
Afternoon (High)
75°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.0"
Precipitation
15 mph
Wind
41%
Humidity
Frequently asked
When is the 2026 Santa Fe Thunder Half Marathon and 5K?
The 2026 Santa Fe Thunder Half Marathon and 5K hasn't announced its next date yet, but it typically takes place around September 2026 (expected).
Where does the 2026 Santa Fe Thunder Half Marathon and 5K take place?
It takes place in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
What distances does the 2026 Santa Fe Thunder Half Marathon and 5K offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2026 Santa Fe Thunder Half Marathon and 5K course flat and good for a PR?
The 2026 Santa Fe Thunder Half Marathon and 5K is a rolling hills, point to point course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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