Deseret News Marathon

Utah’s capital city, and the only one with an international airport, emanates a small-town feel. Downtown is easy to get around and – outside of entertainment enclaves – come evening it’s fairly quiet. You’d never know 1.2 million people live in the metro area. Yes, this is the Mormon equivalent of Vatican City, and the LDS owns a lot of land, but less than half the town’s population are church members – the university and the great-outdoors-at-your-doorstep vibe have attracted a wide range of residents. A liberal spirit is evident everywhere from the coffeehouses to the yoga classes, where elaborate tattoos are the norm. Foodies will find much to love among the multitude of international and organic dining options (think Himalayan and East African). And when the trail beckons, you’re a scant 45 minutes from the Wasatch Mountains’ brilliant hiking and skiing. Friendly people, great food and outdoor adventure – what could be better? 

With that being said, the Deseret News Marathon is the place to be.

First run in 1970, the Deseret News Marathon is the oldest road race in Utah and the 4th oldest marathon west of the continental divide. The marathon follows the path the Utah pioneers traveled when they first entered the valley. This event is truly a part of Utah’s heritage!

The Marathon starts at 5:30 am at the top of Big Mountain, above Emigration Canyon. The course continues down the canyon with a 3,200 foot total elevation drop and finishes along the Days of 47 Parade route where runners will be greeted by over 100,000 cheering Utahns! The marathon course is USATF Certified and a Boston qualifier.