16 January 2024
Races & Marathons in Davis County, Utah
by discoverdavis
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Stay on pace and don’t miss a race with this list of upcoming runs, half marathons, and full marathons in northern Utah – and while you’re here, stay awhile! Whether you’re seeking entertainment, adventure or family fun, Discover Davis in the place for amusement the whole family will enjoy. So come for the run, stay for the fun, and make a weekend of discovering Davis.
Utah Races, Half Marathons & Marathons
Sweethearts 5K & Cupid 1K
The Sweethearts 5K is a running race that is held around Valentine’s Day and is a popular event that brings together runners and walkers of all ages and abilities to participate in a 5-kilometer or 3.1-mile race. The race is associated with a Valentine’s Day theme, with participants encouraged to wear red and pink clothing and heart-shaped decorations. Treats are often provided at the finish line. This event is a great way to stay active and have fun while celebrating Valentine’s Day with friends, family, and other members of the community.
When: February 10, 2024 | 9:00 am & 9:45 am
Where: South Davis Recreation Center | Bountiful
Stay for the fun: It’s Valentine’s Day and whether this is your main V-day event with your SO or not, you can check out our other date ideas in Davis County here. Whether you decide to catch a show at the CenterPoint Legacy Theatre (this February they are showing She Loves Me) or visit the art exhibits at the Bountiful Davis Art Center, you’re bound to have a fun Valentine’s Day weekend.
Pre-Season Indoor Triathalon
Unlike outdoor triathlons, which involve swimming, cycling, and running in open water or on roads, pre-season indoor triathlons take place in a more controlled environment inside the South Davis Recreation Center. The format of the pre-season indoor triathlon may vary but typically involves a set amount of time for each leg of the race, rather than a set distance. For example, participants may swim for 10 minutes in a pool, bike for 20 minutes on a stationary bike, and run for 30 minutes on a treadmill. The distances covered in each leg are then recorded and used to calculate the final results. This event serves as a way for triathletes to get in some early-season training and to gauge their fitness level before the start of the outdoor triathlon season.
When: February 24, 2024 | 7:00 pm
Where: South Davis Recreation Center | Bountiful
Stay for the fun: You just did this one indoors, so maybe now you’d like to get out and enjoy the winter weather in Davis. February is a great time to see the Bald Eagles in Davis County. Either before your race or later that weekend, bundle up, bring a thermos of something warm, and your binoculars, and head to Farmington Bay WMA to look for Bald Eagles and other birds. Plus birding is just the kind of low-exertion activity you’ll need after expending all that energy with that triathlon.
Spring Indoor Triathlon
The Spring Indoor Triathlon at the South Davis Recreation Center is an annual indoor triathlon event held in Bountiful, Utah, and is open to participants of all ages and skill levels. The format of the Spring Indoor Triathlon is similar to other indoor triathlons, with participants completing a set amount of time for each leg of the race. The swim leg takes place in the rec center’s indoor pool, the bike leg is completed on stationary bikes, and the run leg is done on treadmills. This is a fun and challenging event that provides participants with an opportunity to test their fitness and endurance in a supportive and friendly environment. It is also a great way to kick off the triathlon season and prepare for outdoor races later in the year.
When: March 16, 2024 | 7:00 pm
Where: South Davis Recreation Center | Bountiful
Stay for the fun: Every October through April, you can catch a live music performance indoors at the Davis Arts Council’s Small Stage on the first and third Friday of every month. Grab a delicious dinner at one of Layton’s nearby restaurants (we’d recommend Weller’s Bistro if that fits within your dietary plan for the impending race) and catch the concert at either 6:00 pm or 8:00 pm. These concerts are free but seating is limited and based on a first-come-first-served basis. Or, if you’re up for it, catch some St. Patty’s Day celebrations at Stockman’s Bar in Layton or Warehouse 22 in Syracuse, or grab a delicious St. Patrick’s Day-inspired meal and cocktails at Plated Dreams in Bountiful.
Antelope Island Buffalo Run
The Antelope Island Buffalo Run is an annual trail running event held on Antelope Island State Park, located in the Great Salt Lake. The event includes several race distances ranging from 25 kilometers to 100 miles. The race takes place in March and offers participants a chance to run through the beautiful and rugged terrain of Antelope Island. The island is home to a large herd of bison, and runners may encounter these majestic animals during the race. The course features steep climbs, rocky terrain, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake. This run is known for its challenging terrain and unpredictable weather conditions, with runners often facing strong winds, snow, and mud. However, the event is also renowned for its beautiful scenery, friendly atmosphere, and supportive volunteers. In addition to the race itself, the Antelope Island Buffalo Run also includes a pre-race dinner and post-race party, with food, drinks, music, and awards for top finishers in each distance. The event is a great opportunity for runners to test their limits and experience the beauty of Utah’s wilderness. *See more about ultra marathons below.
When: March 29, 2024 | 9 am, 8 am, 7am & 6am
Where: Antelope Island State Park | Syracuse
Stay for the fun: This is a big race and you deserve to rest easy after a run like this! Grab some serious R&R at one of our 23 nationally branded hotels in Davis County. Need a little more than a nice place to rest afterward? Get some pampering on those tired feet with a pedicure at M. Vince Spa at Station Park followed by a movie with the family at the Cinemark or some low-key shopping, all located within Station Park.
5K Recycle Run, Walk, or Roll
The 5K Recycle Run at the South Davis Recreation Center is an annual running event held in Bountiful. The event is aimed at promoting environmental awareness and sustainability, with participants encouraged to recycle and reduce waste throughout the race. This run starts and finishes at the SDRC and the course follows a scenic route through residential neighborhoods and local parks and includes both paved and dirt trails. Participants are encouraged to bring their own water bottles and to recycle their cups and other waste throughout the race. There are also recycling stations and compost bins available at the start and finish lines. The 5K Recycle Run is a fun and family-friendly event that promotes healthy living and environmental stewardship. In addition to the race, there are often other activities and exhibits related to sustainability, recycling, and environmental education. The event often raises funds for local environmental initiatives and organizations.
When: April 22, 2023 | 8:00 AM
Where: South Davis Recreation Center | Bountiful
Stay for the fun: Lagoon Amusement Park is open on weekends in April, so get ready for some thrills on famous rides like Cannibal, Wicked and Colossus. Littles will love KiddieLand. Fuel up at Lagoon’s Biergarten, then cozy up for the weekend at Country Inn and Suites in Bountiful. Get the latest hotel deals on our website here, including our night-stay incentive program.
Legacy Duathlon
The Legacy Duathlon is an annual multi-sport event that features both sprint and Olympic distance duathlon races, as well as a relay option for teams. The duathlon consists of a run-bike-run format, with the sprint distance including a 5-kilometer (3.1-mile) run, a 20-kilometer (12.4-mile) bike ride, and another 5-kilometer run. The Olympic distance includes a 10-kilometer (6.2-mile) run, a 40-kilometer (24.9-mile) bike ride, and a final 5-kilometer run. The Legacy Duathlon course follows a scenic route through the Legacy Parkway trail system, which runs alongside the Wasatch Mountains. The course is flat and fast, with a few rolling hills along the bike route. This event is a great way for athletes to test their fitness and endurance in a friendly and supportive environment. The event also includes a post-race party with food, drinks, music, and awards for top finishers in each age group and race distance. Overall, the Legacy Duathlon is a fun and challenging event that provides a unique opportunity for athletes to compete in a run-bike-run format and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Utah’s trails.
When: April 5, 2024 | 9:00 am & 1 pm
Where: North Salt Lake
Stay for the fun: Take the family to the Baby Animal Festival at Cross E Ranch in North Salt Lake and plan on getting lunch or dinner there as well since all their food comes from their own farm. Or, if it’s still a little chilly to be outside, hit up one of Davis County’s indoor amusement centers such as Boondock’s or Bountiful Bowl for some budget-friendly family fun.
May the Fourth Race (Half Marathon, 10K & 5K)
The May the Fourth race is an annual running event that is often held on or around May 4th, which is known as “Star Wars Day” among fans of the popular Star Wars franchise. The event is a fun run, which means it is a themed race that celebrates the Star Wars universe and encourages participants to dress up as their favorite characters from the movies. This fun Star Wars-themed race begins at the Legacy Events “Space” Center and races along the Legacy Parkway Trail System. Presented by On Hill Events, you can get a t-shirt and a medal! The course is a flat out-and-back route from the Legacy Events Center. Runners will go under a tunnel and over a bridge. The Half Marathon goes 6.55 miles out and back, the 10K goes 3.1 miles out and back and the 5K is 1.55 miles out and back. The course is well marked with red arrow sticks on the ground as well as signs and volunteers with light-up sabers. The May the Fourth race is a fun and unique way for fans of the Star Wars franchise to celebrate their love for the movies while getting some exercise and enjoying the company of fellow fans.
When: May 4, 2024
Where: Legacy Events Center | Farmington
Stay for the fun: May is a spectacular time in Davis County for birding! Whether you and your family are avid birders or not, you can enjoy avian wildlife at the nearby Farmington Bay and Eccles Wildlife Center for some educational fun and low-exertion outdoor activities. Or, celebrate your accomplishment at Station Park with some shopping, dining, or a movie.
Splash-n-Sprint “SNS” Triathlon
The Splash-n-Sprint Triathlon by South Davis Races is an annual sprint triathlon event held in Bountiful. The event includes a 750-meter swim, a 12-mile bike ride, and a 5-kilometer (3.1-mile) run. The swim leg takes place in an outdoor pool at the South Davis Recreation Center, with participants completing multiple laps to cover the 750-meter distance. The bike leg is a fast and flat 12-mile course that winds through local neighborhoods. The run leg is a 5K course that follows paved and dirt trails through local parks and green spaces. This event is designed for participants of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced triathletes. The event is known for its friendly and supportive atmosphere and features aid stations along the course to provide hydration and nutrition for participants. In addition to the triathlon, the SNS event also includes a pre-race packet pickup and expo, with vendors and exhibitors offering a range of products and services related to triathlon and endurance sports. There is also a post-race party with food, drinks, music, and awards for the top finishers.
When: May 11, 2024 | 7:30 am & 8:45 am
Where: South Davis Recreation Center | Bountiful
Handcart Days Races – Handcart Half, Frontier 5K & Pioneer Pete 1K
The Handcart Days Races in Bountiful is an annual running event that takes place typically on the third Saturday in July as part of the larger Handcart Days celebration. The event includes several different race distances, including a 5K, 10K, and a kids race. The Handcart Days Races are named after the pioneers who settled in Bountiful and the surrounding areas, many of whom used hand-pulled carts to transport their belongings across the country as they migrated westward. The races celebrate that history and are a way for the community to come together and enjoy some healthy competition all while pulling old wagons loaded with your belongings (just kidding about the wagon part!) The course for the Handcart Days Races takes runners through the streets of Bountiful, offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains and the city. The race is open to runners of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced runners, and typically attracts a large crowd of participants.
When: July 20, 2024 | 6:00 am, 7:00 am & 7:45 am
Where: South Davis Recreation Center | Bountiful
Stay for the fun: Beat the heat at Cherry Hill, then celebrate your victory at Bountiful City’s Handcart Days firework show.
Labor Day Triathlon
The Labor Day Triathlon at the South Davis Recreation Center is an annual triathlon event that takes place on Labor Day in Bountiful. The event typically includes a spring distance triathlon, which consists of a 750-meter swim, a 12-mile bike ride, and a 5K run. The race is open to participants of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced triathletes, and offers a challenging but achievable course. The swim portion takes place in the outdoor pool at the South Davis Recreation Center, while the bike and run portions take place on the streets surrounding the center. This is a popular event that typically attracts a large number of participants from the local community and beyond. It’s also a great way for triathletes to end the summer racing season on a high note, and for beginners to try out the sport in a supportive and fun environment.
When: September 2, 2024 | 7:30 am & 8:45 am
Where: South Davis Recreation Center | Bountiful
Stay for the fun: Book a VIP excursion at SeaQuest, Utah’s only interactive aquarium, where the family can snorkel with stingrays, feed and hold a kinkajou, or soothe those tired tootsies with a fish pedicure! Or, hit the greens at one of the 10 golf courses in Davis County.
Brineman Triathlon
The Brineman Triathlon is an annual triathlon event that starts at Still Water Lakes Resort in Syracuse. Still Water is private property, do not try and attempt to swim in the lake prior to race day. The Sprint course consists of a single 750m loop, while the Olympic course consists of a single 0.9-mile loop. The long course swim is a 1.2-mile swim consisting of a small 0.2-mile loop, followed by a full 1-mile loop around the perimeter of the lake. Still Water is 8′ deep and about 60′ wide. In the event that you need to get out, it’s easy to get to the side of this lake. Water safety patrol on kayaks and SUPs will be monitoring the water portion of the event. The bike course is still being determined. You will finish at the Jensen Nature Park in Syracuse.
When: September 6, 2024 | 9:00 am
Where: Jensen Nature Park | Syracuse
Stay for the fun: Camp at Antelope Island State Park and spend a leisurely morning kayaking on the Great Salt Lake or take an Antelope eBike tour for a powered boost that will give your legs a bit of a rest. If you’d rather leave the island, head over to The Rush Funplex, Utah’s largest indoor amusement center in Syracuse nearby the island.
Antelope Island Marathon
The Antelope Island Marathon has four distances: Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K. All the distances are on Antelope Island, which is home to 600 bison and is the largest island on Great Salt Lake. This course, presented by On Hill Events, is a true marathon in that it is not all downhill like many. There are several rollers for the runners. Enjoy views of Great Salt Lake to the east and mountains to the west as you race your course.
When: October 11, 2024 | 7:00 am & 1:00 pm
Where: Antelope Island State Park | Syracuse
Stay for the fun: From fall festivals and hay mazes to spooky skeletons and Halloween activities, there are plenty of ways to celebrate fall in Davis. Visit Lagoon’s famous Frightmares, Scary Hill at Cherry Hill, or check out the annual fall festivals at Black Island Farms and Cross E Ranch. Fuel up for the race with comforting breakfast classics like Granny Annie’s famous scones, and then celebrate your victory at locally-owned gems like Hug-Hes Cafe and Weller’s Bistro.
Thanksgiving Day Races – Turkey 10K, Family 5K & Gobbler 1K
Gobble, gobble! Work that turkey dinner off ahead of time and bring the whole family down for one of Discover Davis’ most loved Thanksgiving Day traditions. The Thanksgiving 10K, 5K, and 1K is a great community event and there’s a race distance for everyone. The main race of the Thanksgiving Day Races is the 5K run/walk, which starts and finishes at the South Davis Rec Center. The course takes runners through the residential streets of Bountiful. In addition to the 5K, the event also includes a 1K kids’ race and a 10K race for more experienced runners. The event is family-friendly, and many participants enjoy dressing up in holiday-themed costumes and running with their families and friends. This is a very fun and festive event that brings together the community to celebrate the holiday and promote fitness and wellness. It’s a great way to start off the day with some exercise and to give thanks for health, family, and friends.
When: November 21, 2024 | 8:00 am & 9:00 am
Where: South Davis Recreation Center | Bountiful
Stay for the fun: Christmas light displays start popping up this time of year, check here for info on lighting ceremonies and locations. Santa has also arrived at Station Park by this time which is a fun family activity.
Winter Indoor Triathalon
The Winter Indoor Triathlon at the South Davis Recreation Center is an annual event that takes place during the winter months in Bountiful and is designed to provide a unique and challenging indoor triathlon experience for participants of all skill levels. This triathlon consists of three separate events: a 10-minute swim, a 30-minute bike ride, and a 20-minute run. Participants compete in each event consecutively, with a five-minute transition period between each event. The swim takes place in the South Davis Rec Center’s indoor pool, while the bike and run events take place on stationary bikes and treadmills in the center’s fitness area. Participants are given a score based on their distance covered in each event, and the scores are tallied at the end to determine the winners in each category. The Winter Indoor Triathlon at the SDRC is a great way to challenge yourself and stay active during the winter months when outdoor training and racing may be difficult. It’s also a fun and supportive community event, with participants encouraging and cheering each other on throughout the competition.
When: December 7, 2024 | 7:00 pm
Where: South Davis Recreation Center | Bountiful
Utah Ultra-Marathons
There are so many things that make Davis a unique destination – 6 amusement centers, Antelope Island State Park, and our proximity to some of the best ski resorts in the world, just to name a few. But another unique characteristic of Davis has emerged over the last several years: ultra-marathons. Thanks to beautiful landscapes and over 500 miles of trails, Davis has quickly become a hotspot for Utah ultra-marathon training and races.
Ultra-marathons are long-distance races that are longer than the traditional marathon length of 26.2 miles. Common ultra-marathon distances include 50 kilometers (31 miles), 50 miles, and 100 miles. Dedicated trail running athletes have long been using Davis trails to train for these impressive feats and as the sport has gained popularity, there are now several annual ultra-marathons hosted in Davis! Davis not only has breathless landscape views, but the impressive elevation gain found across our trails will also leave you breathless. Below, explore all of the Utah ultra-marathons held annually in Davis.
Elephant Rock Trail Run
The Elephant Rock 50K is one gnarly, stunning point-to-point course connecting major Davis trails such as Holbrook Canyon Trail, The Great Western, Sessions Pass, Mill Creek, Kenney Creek, Mueller Park Trailhead, Cave Peak, Rudy’s Flat, and Elephant Rock. Now, the challenging and popular Elephant Rock consists of four races: the 7-miler, the 13.8-miler, the 26.8-miler and the 50-kilometer throughout the Mueller Park area in Bountiful.
Wasatch 100
The Wasatch Front 100 Mile Endurance Run is held the first Friday and Saturday after Labor Day each year. The run stretches from East Mountain Wilderness Park in Davis to Soldier Hollow and covers some of the most beautiful scenery the Wasatch Mountains have to offer. This is a premier run that will test the endurance of any runner.
The course begins in Davis at East Mountain Wilderness Park, running south to the mouth of Bair Canyon at the foot of Francis Peak. The trail then turns south and follows the crest of the Wasatch range past Francis Peak, through Farmington Flats and Arthur’s Fork, along Sessiosn Ridge, over City Creek Pass, and continues on along the Wasatch Mountains.
DC Peaks 50
The DC Peaks 50 is a brand new point-to-point ultra-marathon that will have you breathing heavy through a big smile. The race begins at East Mountain Wilderness Park in Kaysville and takes you on an adventure of trails, service roads and 2.5 miles of paved road. You’ll hit a sweet climb on the Great Western Trail, go through some of the most popular hiking trails in Mueller Park, and end at Tunnel Springs Park in North Salt Lake. It’s a tough course with 12,000 feet of vertical gain. This race was designed by ultra-runners who felt Davis needed its own ultra-marathon so you know it’s a good one!
“It’s a tough course with approx 11,000’ of vertical gain and 10,000’ of descent – it’s designed to take you along trails with the best views in the area. The start line has an elevation of 4,888’. The average elevation of this race is 6,604’.”
Where: East Mountain Wilderness Park | Kaysville
Antelope Island Fall Classic 50K
The Antelope Island Fall Classic is a 50-kilometer ultra-running race in Utah that takes place annually each November. This race is organized by the same group that hosts the Buffalo Run each spring. This route differs slightly from the Buffalo Run 50K but still takes runners across iconic Antelope Island trails like White Rock Bay, Elephant Head, and Sentry Trail. The total elevation gain is 3,500 feet. Antelope Island is the largest island in the Great Salt Lake and is sure to offer spectacular views throughout the length of the race. You may also catch a glimpse of wildlife like bison, pronghorn antelope, deer, coyotes, and countless bird species.
Buffalo Run
The Buffalo Run is an annual series of races held at Antelope Island State Park in the early spring. All race distances guide you through many of the most popular trails at Antelope Island such as White Rock Bay, Elephant Head, Mountain View Trail, and more with a total elevation gain of 2,000 or 3,800 feet (depending on distance). This race is hosted at Antelope Island State Park which is home to 600 bison and is the largest island on the Great Salt Lake. Training runs are often held monthly during the wintertime.
Race details are always subject to change, so please make sure to check with individual race organizers for the correct prices, times, and dates.
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