There’s something about women’s-focused running events that hit a bit differently. In my experience, they often have a noticeable focus on community and camaraderie, and excel at creating an environment where you can safely show up as you are—and be celebrated for it.
Running is—and should be—for everyone but if you’re just getting started with the sport and looking for a supportive race to begin, or are looking for an event where you can meaningful connection with other women (or reconnect with friends by logging miles together), here are 11 races in the U.S. dedicated to celebrating women runners.
Every Women’s Marathon | Savannah, GA
The Every Women’s Marathon gathered input from some of the sport’s most iconic athletes like Kathrine Switzer, Des Linden and Alison Mariella Désir to design a marathon that support women runners from the beginning of training until the finish line. Not only do race organizers provide free training and nutrition guides tailored to women, but race weekend also kicks off with a variety of events from cooking classes to yoga sessions to shakeout runs. On marathon day, porta-potties are stocked with tampons, pads, liners and other female products, and every mile has spirt squads and music to keep you going.
Race day is typically in November.
USA USA Women’s Marathon & Half Marathon | Palm Desert, CA
Enjoy cool desert breezes and one of the flattest and fastest courses during this women’s marathon and half marathon in Palm Desert, California. Before the race, you’ll be treated to massages and yoga sessions while at the finish line, you’ll receive a sterling sliver custom pendant necklace (apparently presented to you by men in tuxedos), a custom tote bag with more swag, breakfast and mimosas.
Race day is typically in January.
Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend | Orlando, FL
If you’ve been curious about what it’s like running through Walt Disney World in Florida in the very wee hours of the morning, check out the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend. Despite the name, this event offers a variety of festivities from a 5K to a 10K to a half marathon to yoga to a challenge where if you complete both the 10K and half marathon, you get three medals. Keep in mind the 10K and marathon are on consecutive days. 🙂
Costumes and tutus are encouraged, and yes, the half marathon course at Walt runs through Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park between miles five and six.
Race day is typically in February, but registration opens about seven months in advance (usually in July) and sells out super fast, so if this is on your bucket list, mark your calendars now. If you’re a Club runDisney Gold or Platinum member, registration may open for you a little earlier than to the general public.
Thelma & Louise 50K, Marathon, Half Marathon & 15K | Moab, UT
Get into some series trail running in the Moab desert at this race, which traverses slick rock, dirt roads and some sandy washes. Runners can choose to ave “Thelma” or “Louise” printed on their bib, and will also receive a custom Thelma and Louise shot glass, unique belt buckle finisher medal, delicious post race goodies at the finish line.
For an extra rugged experience, you can camp in the free designated spots at the start/finish line (or staying in Moab which has a lot of options, including the Red Cliffs Lodge along the Colorado River.
Race day is typically in April.
This was the first women’s event I participated in and the energy among runners, and all the spectators, was unbelievable. The course runs primarily through Central Park and it’s named after a key symbol of women’s liberation, the miniskirt.
Race day is typically in June.
National Women’s Half & 8K | Washington DC
Run along the Potomac River and some of Washington D.C’s most historic sights like the Thomas Jefferson Memorial during the National Women’s Half and 8K. Strollers are permitted.
Race day is typically in May.
Women Run the Cities 10 Miler, 10K & 5K | Minneapolis, MN
Join other women in a 5K, 10K or 10-miler along the Mississippi River in the Twin Cities. For that extra dose of inspiration, each course will have volunteers at the back of the pack, providing high fives, camaraderie and energy to everyone around. Strollers are permitted in the 5K and brunch, mimosas and beer await you at the finish line.
Race day is typically in May.
Queen B Half Marathon & 4-Miler | Cincinnati, OH
Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the Queen Beer Half Marathon aims to “promote the fun of fitness while raising support and funds for local chaities that focus on women.” Regardless of which distance you choose—the race offers a 4-miler or a half marathon—runners are treated to chocolates, massages and a Queen Bee medal at the finish line. Strollers are permitted on the 4-mile course.
Race day is typically in October.
Trail Sisters Women’s Half Marathon & 10K | Buena Vista, CO
If trail running is more your thing, check out the Trail Sisters Women’s Half Marathon and 10K which offers runners a course through ponderosa pines with views of the Collegiate Peaks in Colorado.
Race day is typically in September.
Detroit Women’s Half Marathon, 10K & 5K | Detroit, MI
With a course exclusively on Belle Isle State Park in Michigan, this race offers plenty of water views and a supportive atmosphere for runners of all levels. In addition to free race photos, plenty of swag, and a post-race breakfast, this Detroit event also offers two unique family-awards divisions: mother & child + three generations of women, so lace up your sneakers and grab your mom, daughter, son, grandmother or granddaughter for this fall run in Michigan.
Race day is typically in September.
She Runs Grand Rapids Half Marathon, 10K & 5K | Grand Rapids, MI
She Runs Grand Rapids offers a range of distances to support every runner, and provides free training plans along with free training events to get you ready to toe the start line.
Race day is typically in September.
Marathon Magic 