Running is a great exercise that strengthens not just your body but also your mind. However, simply running for the sake of running can become boring. If you are into competing and happen to be in Idaho, we have prepared a list of our favorite races in Idaho to spice things up.
Serious Races
These are proper competitive runs with everything this entails, including possible further marathon opportunities, stat tracking, rewards, and more. Whether you are a serious competitor or just want to dip your toes into competitive running, these are the races for you.
1. Boise Marathon
If you are looking for running events in Boise, Idaho, you cannot go wrong with the Boise Marathon. This race includes 5K, 10K, half marathon, and marathon tracks, all starting in the same spot in downtown Boise.
This marathon is a great stepping stone for newcomers due to the overall organization. However, the real value of this race is that it can qualify you for the Boston Marathon—the world’s oldest annual marathon.
2. Idaho Trail Ultra Series
No list of Idaho running races would be complete without mentioning the Idaho Trail Ultra Series. This body-disintegrating series includes various races starting from 10 miles all the way up to 100 miles. So it caters to the most stubborn and seasoned runners willing to push their bodies to their limits.
You must complete at least 4 of the 11 presented races to get the prizes, but you are encouraged to complete more just for kicks.
Fun Races
These marathons are best suited for those looking for a fun time with friends and family. Don’t take these marathons too seriously; just relax and enjoy the course while engaging in additional planned activities.
3. Blast & Dash
Looking for fun 5K races in Idaho? Look no further. The Blast & Dash in Meridian, ID, is one of the best family runs in this category. You get the benefits of running a 5K and the fun of blasting your friends and family with water guns while you are at it.
If you have no water gun at home, there is no need to worry—a water gun will be provided by race organizers, along with a water bottle and a shirt to remember the run.
4. Indian Creek Wine Run
Want to add just a touch of spice into your regular 5K run? The Indian Creek Wine Run has you covered! This fun little Idaho 5K will see you running around Indian Creek Winery, witnessing its splendid views, and enjoying a glass of wine after the race. You also get a shatterproof, collapsible, portable wine glass for participating in the run.
As the organizers themselves said—it’s not just a race; it’s an experience.
5. YMCA Famous Idaho Potato Marathon
If you are looking for fun, family-friendly Idaho marathons, you can’t go wrong with YMCA Famous Idaho Potato Marathon. This race includes a 5K, 10K, marathon, and half marathon in Boise. Run along the Boise River and the Greenbelt, taking in their magnificent nature.
6. Silver Mountain Trail Run
If you happen to be on vacation at Silver Mountain Resort, you might want to consider going on the Silver Mountain Trail Run. Or you might want to stay longer and spend some time near the magnificent Saint Joe Mountains. Regardless, these 6K, 9K, and 18K races will not leave you dissatisfied!
Charity Races
If you want your physical efforts to bring positive change, consider charity runs. Most of the proceeds from these events go to charities, so you can run with pride knowing you did something to improve the world.
7. The C4: Community Cross Country Challenge
The C4: Community Cross Country Challenge is great if you want a change of pace. As the name suggests, this race is cross country, meaning there will be no roads—just you, the surrounding nature, and the sound of hundreds of feet gently patting on the grass.
Moreover, this race is less about showing off and more about running for the sake of running. There is no “swag” in this run—instead, all the proceeds will be donated to fund local cross-country teams.
8. Oakley Goose Creek Run-off
Run next to the majestic Lower Goose Creek Reservoir and through the streets of Oakley in the Oakley Goose Creek Run-off. If you are a local of Oakley or just looking for an opportunity to help your neighbors, this 5K and 10K race will be a perfect opportunity for you.
All the proceeds from the run will go to the Oakley Recreation District, a non-profit entity that maintains and manages most recreational activities in Oakley Village.
9. Boise Front Trail Run
Boise Front Trail Run is a magnificent 5-mile and 10-mile race around the Bogus Basin. The run sends all of its proceeds to Ridge to Rivers, a government organization that creates and maintains trails in Bogus Basin and all the Boise foothills.
Commemorative Runs
Some runs are established to soothe those who still grieve and allow people to remember who or what they lost. These commemorative runs serve as both a reminder and a support group.
10. David’s Hope Pink and Blue Fun Run and Walk
Losing a child is a devastating event for anybody it happens to. So David’s Hope Pink and Blue Fun Run and Walk is dedicated to those who have lost their children. This run will particularly fit you if you are Christian, as a local ministry organizes the marathon.
11. Idaho Running Day
The community decided to launch Idaho Running Day to commemorate Mike Shuman and the Idaho Running Company. This race includes 5K, 10K, and full and half marathons in Idaho.
Conclusion
Running is a great way to reconnect with your inner self, build strength, increase endurance, and improve health. Participating in marathons can also be a great way of socializing and bringing positive change to the world.
If you want to get healthier and find new friends by running in ID, use our list of the best running races to find an event near you.
