HalfRuns
Run the River

Run the River

Run the River offers a fast, scenic half-marathon along the Columbia River in Washington.

Race Date

Apr 16, 2027

Location

Kennewick, WA

Standout72

Quick facts

Date
Friday, April 16, 2027
Location
Kennewick, Washington
Distance
Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 26.2 Miles, 3.1 Miles, 1.2 Miles
Course
Loop Course
Terrain
Road
USATF certified
Yes
Finishers on record
773

Highlights

Good For

PR FriendlyBeginner FriendlyDestination Worthy

Atmosphere

Local CommunityGreat SwagWell Organized

Course

Fast FlatScenic Route

The Experience

The Run the River half-marathon unfolds along the scenic banks of the Columbia River, tracing paved paths and roadways through Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco. This USATF-certified course is designed for speed, with a minimal net elevation change and cool spring weather conducive to personal bests. Runners will enjoy picturesque views of three landscaped parks and the majestic Columbia River, with the rugged surrounding mountains providing a dramatic backdrop.

Now in its 5th year, this event typically draws around 350 finishers, with approximately 18% returning year after year, indicating a loyal following. Runners hail from about 10 states, making it a draw for those seeking a well-organized race in a beautiful setting. The flat terrain and the promise of a fast finish time make it an attractive option for both competitive runners and those looking for a pleasant day out, with the course also welcoming walkers.

Race-provided description

Come join us for the 5th annual Run the River Marathon and Relay, starting at Columbia Park in Kennewick, WA.   This road race features a scenic course that travels through the towns of Kennewick, Richland, and Pasco all while staying next to the mighty Columbia River.  This classic road marathon follows paved paths and roadways the entire time and offers participants with great views of 3 beautifully landscaped parks, the meandering Columbia River, as well as the rugged surrounding mountains.  The flat course and cool spring weather will provide runners with a prime opportunity for a fast finish time if that is their goal.  Likewise, the course lends itself well to runners of all abilities as well as walkers... which tend to have the best time out there!

Course Info

USATF Certified

Course Type

Loop Course

Terrain

road

Scenery

Lake River, Mountain

Surface

Paved

Difficulty

Ultra-Flat

Net Drop/km

0 m (Flat)

Separation

0.0%

Also Offers

26.2 Miles3.1 Miles1.2 Miles

USATF Certified Course

WA24010RMB · Run the River Half Marathon

Relatively flat with minimal net elevation change. Loop course — start and finish are close together.

Quality Score

Standout72
Methodology
Heritage6/20

3 years running

Size12/15

~276 finishers a year

Momentum5/5

growing or steady

Loyalty17/20

17% returning runners

Course & details15/15

USATF certified · 6 timing sources · 4 photos

National draw6/10

runners from 10 states

Front-pack speed3/5

winner 1:24:42

Weather8/10

typical high 65°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (Low)

41°

Afternoon (High)

65°

Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish

0.0"

Precipitation

11 mph

Wind

42%

Humidity

Historical Finish Times

How 773 finishers actually crossed the line across 3 years.

Most recent

2026

Total finishers

773

Median time

2:15:35

Latest turnout

338

States

19

10%
25%
75%
90%
1:10p50 median ≈ 2:154:45

Turnout by year

20242026

'24'25'26
See full results

Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.

Race Photos

Frequently asked

When is the Run the River?

The Run the River is held on Friday, April 16, 2027, starting at 8:30 AM.

Where does the Run the River take place?

It takes place in Kennewick, Washington.

What distances does the Run the River offer?

The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 26.2 Miles, 3.1 Miles, 1.2 Miles.

Is the Run the River course flat and good for a PR?

The Run the River is a ultra-flat, loop course course. The course is USATF-certified, so finish times can be used for qualifying.

How many people run the Run the River?

HalfRuns has finish records for 773 runners who have completed the Run the River.

HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.

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