5K, 10K, Half & Full Marathons

5k races

Name	City	Date	Website
Little Rock Marathon 5K Choose to walk or run the 3.1 miles of this event that takes place on a Saturday morning. The 5K begins at 7:30 a.m. This year runners (and walkers) will be treated to a new course with a new start and finish location. Finishers get a snazzy medal and Â race shirt. Those who sign up even get access to a free online training program to help them prepare prior to race day. hide details see more details	Little Rock	3 March 2018	Little Rock Marathon
The Rescue Run 5K This race aims to raise awareness for mental health issues including depression and suicide. Participants are encouraged to don superhero costumes for the 3.1 mile event. The race begins at 9:00 a.m. and the race fee is $25.00. hide details see more details	Searcy	17 March 2018	Run Signup
Spring Fling 5K Already training for a Spring race? Why not consider the Spring Fling 5K. The race has been around since 1996 and features a USATF certified course. Runners get to finish in style at the Cabot High School track. The 5K race begins at 8:00 a.m. Pre-register and it will cost you $20. hide details see more details	Cabot	24 March 2018	Run Signup
Cow Paddy 5K Choose from a 5K or 1K that support The Spark Foundation non-profit, which supports health and fitness initiatives in the community. A fun event for anyone looking for a Spring race to crush that time goal or check another 5K off the list. hide details see more details	Fayetteville	30 March 2018	Cow Paddy Run
Downtown Dash The 5th edition of the Downtown Dash is taking place in April 2018. The event's 5K begins at 8:30 a.m. but the race also features a Kids' Fun Run (1K). Each youngster who participates in the event will get a cool superhero cape! The race is family friendly and supports the Junior League of Little Rock. hide details see more details	Little Rock	7 April 2018	jllr.org
Miles for Mutts 5K Want to race but don't want to leave your pup at home? Participate in the Miles for Mutts 5K race! Put on by the Sebastian County Humane Society, runners can run with their furry BFFs towards the finish line. The family event is open to runners and walkers and begins at 8:00 a.m. The event is timed and participants who place in the top three in their category receive prizes. hide details see more details	Fort Smith	28 April 2018	Event Brite
Panther Prowl 5K Beginning at 8:00 a.m. this 5K is open to runners, walkers, and wheelchair entrants. Proceeds go towards a local high school's PTSA. The race fees goes up at the end of March, so sign up now to get close to a $10 discount on your registration. hide details see more details	Little Rock	28 April 2018	Run Signup
Crawdad Days 5K Not just a plain old 5K, this event takes place during the Crawdad Days music festival. The 5K event takes place on the Saturday during the weekend festival. The race is timed and participants can choose to run or walk the course. Pre-registration costs just $20. hide details see more details	Harrison	19 May 2018	Crawdad Days
5K Run/Walk for Mental Health Get to the start in time for the race that begins at 9:00 a.m. The event aims to raise awareness for mental health issues. Pre-registration costs either $20 or $25 depending on how early you sign-up. Run or walk the course and get there beforehand (starting at 7:00 a.m.) to pick up your race packet! hide details see more details	Little Rock	27 May 2018	Race Roster
Ice Cream Social 5K Mmmm... ice cream. Who doesn't love ice cream on a summer day? The Ice Cream Social 5K is a family event that takes place yearly in Berryville. The event begins at 8:00 a.m. and the course winds through the lovely town so runners or walkers can enjoy a stroll through the friendly neighborhood. hide details see more details	Berryville	10 June 2018	Run Signup

About 5k races

A 5k is the shortest of the common running event distances researched on Runnerclick, consisting of 3.1 miles (5 kilometers). These events can either be competitive or social, depending on the particular one you are looking into. They are the most popular of road running events because of their relatively short distance which allows not only the seasoned runners to run, but novice runners, joggers and new-comers as well.

How did we choose the best 5k events in Arkansas?

What are the best 5Ks in Little Rock?

There are many to choose from here as Little Rock is host to many 5k races throughout it's many communities. Some of these are charity events for fundraising, some fun runs and others racing events but it all comes down to the runners. Some of the notable 5k running events include the Panther Prowl 5K, the Downtown Dash, and the Little Rock Marathon 5K.

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10k races

Name	City	Date	Website
Little Rock Marathon 10K Choose to walk or run the 6.2 miles of this event that takes place on a Saturday morning. The 10K begins at 7:30 a.m. This year runners (and walkers) will be treated to a new course with a new start and finish location. Finishers get a snazzy medal and a race shirt. Those who sign up even get access to a free online training program to help them prepare prior to race day. hide details see more details	Little Rock	3 March 2018	Little Rock Marathon
Victorian Classic 10K If you're looking to challenge your legs with a hilly course, the Victorian Classic 10K is your race. The race benefits an organization called Samaritan's Feet. Enjoy a certified course and chip timing with your entry. Awards will go to overall and second place winners for men and women and age group winners, as well. hide details see more details	Eureka Springs	24 March 2018	Eureka Springs
Downtown Dash The 5th edition of the Downtown Dash is taking place in April 2018. The event's 10K begins at 8:30 a.m. but the race also features a Kids' Fun Run (1K). Each youngster who participates in the event will get a cool superhero cape! The race is family friendly and supports the Junior League of Little Rock. hide details see more details	Little Rock	7 April 2018	jllr.org
Miles for Mutts 10K Want to race but don't want to leave your pup at home? Participate in the Miles for Mutts 10K race! Put on by the Sebastian County Humane Society, runners can run with their furry BFFs towards the finish line. The family event is open to runners and walkers and begins at 8:00 a.m. The event is timed and participants who place in the top three in their category receive prizes. hide details see more details	Fort Smith	28 April 2018	Event Brite
The Heather Ridley Fleeman Battle for Hope This 10K run is memorial run for Heather Ridley-Fleeman who passed away in 2014 of colon cancer at the age of 28. Race proceeds go towards Hope Cancer Resources which supports cancer education and patient aid initiatives in the area. The 10K race begins at 7:30 a.m and features chip timing. hide details see more details	Springdale	5 May 2018	Heathers Race for Hope
Cancer Challenge 10K A challenge for all ages, the 10K run is chip timed and begins at 7:30 a.m. There's also a 5K and 1K event that start at the same time, so if you're looking for a PR, best to line up at the front of the pack. When you register, you'll get a t-shirt, hat, and a bag full of goodies. The freebies are limited, so make sure to sign up early. At the finish, runners and walkers will get a snack and can get something to drink after a tough run. hide details see more details	Bentonville	16 June 2018	Cancer Challenge
St. Jude Fayetteville 10K/5K Choose from either a 5K or 10K for this event. The 10K begins 15 minutes before the 5K at 7:00 a.m. The course is a loop that takes place on paved trail. The proceeds go towards St. Jude Hospital. Run or walk the 10K (or 5K). Online registration is $30 (plus a $2.5 fee). Price increases mid August, so register now if you want to save some pennies! hide details see more details	Fayetteville	25 August 2018	Run Signup
Kendra’s Voice Race to Be Heard A 10K event that costs $25 and begins at 9:00 a.m. Looking for a September race to fill your calendar? You can run or walk the 5K or look towards a 10K PR for this September race that takes place in Ozark, AR. hide details see more details	Ozark	9 September 2018	Run Signup
Sparks Stampede A timed 10K run that begins at 8:00 a.m. Register before September 5th to avoid the price increase. The course is certified and takes place in Van Buren, AR. Not sure about making it 6.2 miles? The event also features a 5K run/walk that takes place at the same time! hide details see more details	Van Buren	6 October 2018	Run Signup
Great Duck Race Quack quack! That's right, this race has duck in the name and features duck themed race goodies. Sign up and you'll be running on a fast flat course with two aids stations to help you stay hydration for 6.2 miles. Participants will be chip timed and get a shirt to bring home. Before October 30th, you'll be shelling out $25 for this race. Prices increase by $5.00 after that day, which doesn't seem like much but if you wait you might not get your hands on a Duck Race t-shirt and it's made of tech fabric! The race starts at 8:00 a.m. hide details see more details	Stuttgart	24 November 2018	Run Signup

About 10k races

A 10k is one of the most common running event distances, consisting of 6.2 miles (10 kilometers). These events can either be competitive or more for fun, depending on the particular one you are looking into. They are twice the distance of the 5k and still relatively short in distance. Less runners tend to participate then the 5k, but these events still get a lot of not only seasoned runners, but novice runners and joggers in attendance.

How did we choose the best 10k events in Arkansas?

What are the best 10Ks in Arkansas?

There are many to choose from here as Arkansas is host to many 10k races throughout it's many cities and communities. Some of these are charity events for fundraising, some fun runs and others racing events but it all comes down to the runners. Some of the notable 10k running events include the Great Duck Race, the Sparks Stampede, and the Cancer Challenge 10K.

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Half marathons

Name	City	Date	Website
Little Rock Half Marathon Choose to walk or run the 13.1 miles of this event that takes place on a Sunday morning. The Half Marathon begins at 7:00 a.m. This year runners (and walkers) will be treated to a new course with a new start and finish location. Finishers get a snazzy medal and a race shirt. Those who sign up even get access to a free online training program to help them prepare prior to race day. hide details see more details	Little Rock	4 March 2018	Little Rock Marathon
Talimena Half Marathon Run & Relay This Half-Marathon begins at 8:30 a.m. and has a time limit of four hours, so walkers are welcome. Aid stations are fairly far apart (a little over 5K) so it might be wise to carry a water bottle. Runners can choose to participate in a 4 or 13-person relay instead of going solo. The course is point to point and there is transportation available to bring finishers back to the start at Janssen Park. hide details see more details	Mena	10 March 2018	Talimena Run and Relay
Run Bentonville Half Marathon This Half-Marathon event features a loop course. It's a small town race that's organized to a tee. The race begins at 7:00 a.m. and features chip timing. About every 2 miles, runners will encounter an aid station where they can hydrate. If you want to run with a friend and are looking for a team challenge, you can sign up for the event's 2-person relay. hide details see more details	Bentonville	7 April 2018	Run Bentonville
Doc Rock & Run Half Marathon Proceeds for this race go towards the Neonatal ICU at St. Bernards hospital in Arkansas. The race features a cash prize for top 5 winners in the male and female categories. Participants get a comfy hoodie and each finisher gets a medal. The race starts at 7:30 a.m. hide details see more details	Jonesboro	14 April 2018	Doc Rock and Run
RussVegas Half Marathon Proceeds for this race go towards the Arkansas Children's Hospital. The course features fun cheer stations with spectators and musical entertainment. The Half begins at 7:30 a.m. but there's an early start at 6:30 a.m. for walkers or slower runners. The RussVegas is a Half-Marathon with plenty of encouragement and fun along the course. There is a relay option and a post-race party! hide details see more details	Russelville	21 April 2018	Russ Vegas Half
Arkansas Half Marathon One of the oldest long-distance races in the Southern United States, the Arkansas Half takes place during the October Daze festival. The Half-Marathon costs $45 (until the price increases). In addition, the route is a point to point course. hide details see more details	Booneville	13 October 2018	Arkansas Marathon
Hero Half Marathon This Half-Marathon benefits local organizations and takes place during Fire Safety Week. The race start is at 8:00 a.m. and the winding route is quite beautiful. Racers will have to have some hill training to finish strong close to the end on Never Quit Hill. Post-race participants can expect food and refreshments and a fun atmosphere as they arrive at the Fire Station finish. hide details see more details	Fayetteville	14 October 2018	Hero Half Marathon
Fayetteville Half Marathon Looking for a fall race to fill up your calendar? Need a motivating race goal to train for this summer? The Fayetteville Half Marathon takes place in November and is a great option for a running vacay. The race begins at 8:00 a.m. and is sponsored by Lipton Tea. hide details see more details	Fayetteville	3 November 2018	Fayetteville Half Marathon
White River Half Marathon Enjoy a pre-race pasta dinner and a delicious post-race meal at the White River Half Marathon. The event has a participant cap so make sure to register if you want to make this a goal race. The course is really flat, so it's a great race to look towards a PR. The gorgeous course features plenty of racer support. Lots of port-a-potties, aid stations every few miles, and snacks and hydration options to help runners along their way to the finish line. hide details see more details	Cotter	17 November 2018	White River Marathon

About Half marathons

A Half Marathon event consists of running 13 miles (21 kilometers) and as the label suggests, is half of a standard Marathon which is a total of 26 miles. The popularity, participants of the half marathon distance and its events have significantly grown since the early 2000's and they continue to do so, with massive events popping up all over the states. The growth rate of participants for the half distance is currently higher than that of the full.

How did we choose the best Half Marathon events in Arkansas?

What are the best Half Marathons in Arkansas?

There are many to choose from here as Arkansas is host to many Half Marathon races throughout it's many cities and communities. Some of these are charity events for fundraising, some fun runs and others racing events but it all comes down to the runners. Some of the notable Half Marathon running events include the White River Half Marathon, the Hero Half Marathon, and the Arkansas Half Marathon, among many others.

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Marathons

Name	City	Date	Website
16th Annual Little Rock Marathon Choose to walk or run the 26.2 miles of this event that takes place on a Saturday morning. The Marathon begins at 7:00 a.m. This year runners (and walkers) will be treated to a new course with a new start and finish location. Finishers get a snazzy medal and Â race shirt. Those who sign up even get access to a free online training program to help them prepare prior to race day. hide details see more details	Little Rock	4 March 2018	Little Rock Marathon
Mission Run in the Ozarks The Marathon begins at 8:00 a.m. and costs $70 (prices increase mid-March). This year is the sixth edition of the Arkansas race. The course is hilly but enjoyable and features plenty of water stations for athletes to re-hydrate. Everyone who pre-registers before February 16th will be sure to get their hands on a t-shirt. hide details see more details	Mountain View	31 March 2018	Run Signup
The Hogeye Marathon Oink oink! Get ready for the 42nd edition of the Hogeye Marathon. This year the race features a new route that passes by parks, and even includes a little bit of trail running (don't worry, just a little jaunt!). The loop course features several port-a-potty stops, and plenty of aid stations where runners can quench their thirst. Finishers who want to pony up an extra $11 will get very nice finisher's jackets. hide details see more details	Springdale	14 April 2018	Hogeye Marathon
Arkansas Marathon One of the oldest long-distance races in the Southern United States, the Arkansas Marathon takes place during the October Daze festival. The full Marathon costs $60 (until the price increases). In addition, the route is a point to point course. hide details see more details	Booneville	13 October 2018	Arkansas Marathon
White River Marathon Enjoy a pre-race pasta dinner and a delicious post-race meal at the White River Marathon. The event has a participant cap so make sure to register if you want to make this a goal race. The course is really flat, so it's a great race to look towards a PR. The gorgeous course features plenty of racer support. Lots of port-a-potties, aid stations every few miles, and snacks and hydration options to help runners along their way to the finish line. It's a Boston Qualifier race, too, so for those eyeing Boston, make sure to mark this race on your calendar. hide details see more details	Cotter	17 November 2018	White River Marathon
Jacob Wells 3 Bridges Marathon The 3 Bridges Marathon begins at 7:00 a.m. and follows a route along the Arkansas River Trail. The cost is $85 and includes a technical race shirt. Runners have a 6-hour time limit but there is an early start for runners expecting to take longer. The race is put on in memory of Jacob Wells a well-known runner in the community who passed away tragically after collapsing during a race during a cardiac arrest. Wells was the original organizer of the 3 Bridges Marathon and the race continues to this day in his memory. hide details see more details	Little Rock	15 December 2018	3 Bridges Marathon

About Marathons

Marathon events consist of 26 miles (42 kilometers) and the courses are typically laid out through roads. Starting in the Olympics in the early 1900's, marathons have quickly picked up in popularity and most long distance runners subscribe to this distance. In 2017 there are currently more than 800 running events being held, and that number is consistently growing.

How did we choose the best Marathon events in Arkansas?

We checked what events runners looked for the most and we compared statistics on how many runners held interest in any given event. Feedback left by runners who participated in the course was also considered. Other factors included how long the course has been around, the bling and medals, what runners thought of them and how scenic the course is. Many runners also expressed interest in the "goodies" and sponsorship gifts at the finishline. This can vary from running shoes to resistance bands, headphones and much more.

What are the best Marathons in Arkansas?

There are many to choose from here as Arkansas is host to many Marathon races throughout it's many cities and communities. Some of these are charity events for fundraising, some fun runs and others racing events but it all comes down to the runners. Some of the notable Marathon running events include the Arkansas Marathon, the Hogeye Marathon, and the Mission Run in the Ozarks.

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Ultra Races

Name	City	Date	Website
LOViT Ultra Looking for a real challenge? Choose between 100 miles or 100 K and enjoy a scenic route filled with vistas, rolling hills and beautiful landscapes. The 100K takes place on Saturday at 6:00 a.m. and the 100 miler begins at 5:00 p.m. on Friday. Finishers will receive a medal (100K) or a belt bucker (100 mile). The 100K features a 21 hour time cut-off and the 100 miler has a 34 hour cut-off. hide details see more details	Ouachita National Forest	23 February 2018	Run Lovit
3 Days of Syllamo Looking for an ultra challenge but want to kick things up a notch? Take part in this three day stage race that takes place on the trails. You'll be covering more than 150 K of mountain trails. Day one includes a 50K run. Day two is a bit more challenging at 50 miles. On the third day you'll have to run a 20K distance which will likely seem to pale in comparison to the previous two days. The race limits entries to 200 participants. hide details see more details	Ozark Mountains	16 March 2018	Syllamo.org
Ouachita Trail 50 This ultra includes two distances: 50K and 50 mile. The ultra course features a climb up Pinnacle Mountain where runners can enjoy a gorgeous view. The scenic course takes place on trails and finishers can expect to be red post-race and provided with a medal, a symbol of their accomplishment. hide details see more details	Little Rock	21 April 2018	Run Arkansas
Full Moon 50K & 25K After running 50K, you might be so exhausted you find yourself howling at the moon! A great beginner ultra for those new to the sport, the Full Moon 50K begins at 7:00 p.m. so you'll be running, literally, by the moon. There are plenty of aid stations and volunteers on hand to keep tabs on runners and ensure everyone is participating safely. In addition to various course point cut-off times, finishers must be done by 4:00 a.m. latest. hide details see more details	Ouachita National Forest	21 July 2018	Full Moon 50K
6/12/24 Hour Endurance Challenge Try your hand at a timed ultra challenge to see how mentally tough you really are. Choose from a 6 hour, 12 hour or 24 hour event. Run until you can't anymore! Walk when you need to and have fun. The race takes place at Sunset Lake and is free, though donations are accepted. Run around the 1-mile paved loop as many times as you can during the allotted time. Everyone is a finisher, no matter the distance run. hide details see more details	Benton	23 November 2018	Saline County Striders

Other Races to Consider

Name	City	Date	Website
EHS 2018 Doggie-Dash Love to run but hate leaving your pooch at home? Sign up with your doggo for this short 5K event. It begins at 8:00 a.m. so you'll have to convince Fido to get out of bed (or maybe he'll have to rouse you up from your slumber first). Participants can run or walk, and don't have to have a dog to participate. Don't have a furry friend to run with? There will be dogs there on race day waiting to be adopted and each little fur monster would be honored to run along side you! hide details see more details	El Dorado	10 March 2018	Run Signup
Beer & Bagel Run A strange combination, no? Beer and bagels. That's a whole lot of carbs. But hey, when you're running about 4 miles, you deserve beer AND bagels! The event is more of a party than a race. Run 4-ish miles to the finish to enjoy bagels and homemade food along with beer, music, and fun games. Runners also get a funny t-shirt. hide details see more details	Fayetteville	24 March 2018	Beer and Bagel
Iron Pig Duathlon Not into the whole swimming thing? The Iron Pig Duathlon has you covered. Choose to include a bike ride (5K run, 18 mile bike, 5K run) or just run or walk the 5K course. The bike course is an out-and-back and the race course is nice and flat. The event also includes a bike time trial for those interested in racing against the clock. hide details see more details	Fayetteville	31 March 2018	Iron Pig Duathlon
Hoof It For Heifer 20K Trail Run A 20K trail run whose proceeds benefit Heifer International. The race takes place in Petit Jean State Park and is not for beginners. Expect a challenging 20K course. The race starts at 8:00 a.m. and features a 6-hour time limit. Everyone who runs the race gets a t-shirt and yummy food will be available at the finish for runners. hide details see more details	Petit Jean State Park	14 April 2018	Heifer Trail Run
Buffalo National River Biathlon You don't need a bike for this event. It's a trail run and kayak biathlon! The run portion of the race takes place on beautiful trails for 6.8 miles. When you get to the creek? Time to hop into a canoe or kayak and race for the final 4.6 miles. Participants don't need to bring a canoe or kayak. Rentals are available for those without a vessel. Proceeds go towards the North Central Arkansas Master Naturalists. hide details see more details	Harriet / Yellville	28 April 2018	Pirate Perry Events
Mount Magazine Trail Run Another trail race to consider. This challenging race consists of about 18 mile in Mount Magazine State Park. The race starts at 8:00 a.m. Racers will head to the top of the mountain for beautiful views of the park. The event is free and not timed, so it's a great choice for trail runners (who are comfortable going the distance) who don't want to focus on finish times or worry about the clock. hide details see more details	Paris	12 May 2018	Run Arkansas
Catsmacker & Kitty Tickler Fun Run A 22 mile fun run sounds like a bit of a misnomer, but if you're a hardcore trail runner, every trail is fun! Runners will start off on the hilly course at 7:00 a.m. There's also a 12 mile option for those who prefer a shorter event. Food will be available at the end of the run. hide details see more details	Camp Ouachita	19 May 2018	Run Arkansas
Bubble Run Tired of a plain old color run? Get wacky with some bubbles! This event is a great way to mix things up in training and infuse a little fun into an otherwise tough training season. Proceeds for the Bubble Run go towards the Children's Project. hide details see more details	Little Rock	26 May 2018	Bubble Run
Great Obstacle Runaround Looking for a fun event for your kids? This event is an obstacle race especially created for kids between the ages of 5 and 12. A great way to introduce kids to a fun fitness oriented event. The course includes at least 10 obstacles and each child who participates gets a fun sweat band. Younger kids start earlier at 9:00 a.m. and older kids begin a half hour later. The cost is $20 until the beginning of May when prices start to increase. hide details see more details	Springdale	9 June 2018	The Jones Centre
White River Roadrunners 4-Mile Classic Not quite into the 5K distance and don't like slogging through a 10K? How about a 4 miler? This Championship event begins at 7:30 a.m. and costs $15 for adults ($20 on race day). The event includes a free kids fun run, too. Pre-registered runners get a t-shirt and there's a $150 prize up for grabs for the runner who can beat the course record (male or female). Participants will be chip timed. hide details see more details	Batesville	4 August 2018	WR Road Runners