Run This Town

Run This Town

Trail and pavement, competitive and recreational, running is rampant in Bend, Oregon!

(last updated March 23, 2023)

Marathon, half marathon, relay and fun run season is almost here. Lucky for us, Bend is home to some of the best mountain town races anywhere. Not only that, but the all-stars at Footzone host training groups and pub runs to get runners of all levels prepared for the best race of their lives.

Get the momentum rolling Saturday, April 16 at the Bend Marathon, Half Marathon, 10k and 5k. These are scenic courses that wind through west Bend neighborhood parks, ponderosa pine forests and spectacular sections along the Deschutes River.

Photo courtesy of Visit Bend and Bend Marathon

Keep the endorphins flowing and run upstream Saturday, April 22 during the 33rd annual Salmon Run. One of Bend’s original races, the Salmon Run offers a 5K, 10K and half marathon courses all meandering along the beautiful Deschutes River.

The Footzone Dirty Half is Central Oregon’s oldest Half Marathon happening Saturday, June 3. This race offers more trail miles than pavement miles which means mountain views for inspiration followed by an unforgettable post-race party with branded gear, prizes, beer, tasty food, music and smiles for miles.

Oregon’s most challenging running relay course, Cascade Lakes Relay, takes place June 23 and 24 this year. The relay starts in the Cascade Mountains at Diamond Lake Resort and travels through the Oregon Outback and rural agricultural country back up to Cascade Lakes Highway around Mt. Bachelor funneling teams back into Bend for a wrap gathering at Riverbend park.

Bend is an incredible place to visit, a sensational area to run in, and while we want to be the leader in sport running, we also need to be leaders in sustainability for the generations of athletes yet to come. Bend Marathon sustainability plans include ways to keep waste to a minimum, reduce our carbon footprints and use more sustainable materials. Read more about their plan HERE, and consider implementing these practices into your own running routine!