Top 25 Races in Arkansas

This marathon in Little Rock, AR has been running for over 20 years, making it a established tradition in the AR running scene. It's a solid choice for runners of all levels looking for a marathon in the Little Rock, AR area.

Run Arkansas's original 100-mile trail race on the remote Ouachita Trail. The Arkansas Traveller 100 is the state's oldest ultramarathon and one of the South's most legendary endurance challenges, offering rugged point-to-point terrain for experienced ultrarunners seeking a true test of perseverance.

Run Arkansas's most popular half marathon at Little Rock Marathon Weekend, joining thousands of runners on the same scenic course as the full marathon through downtown Little Rock. Experience incredible community support and professional race organization that has made this Arkansas's premier running celebration. Perfect for runners seeking a challenging half-distance event within one of the state's biggest running weekends.

Run Northwest Arkansas's signature fall marathon through stunning Ozark scenery. Celebrating nearly 20 years of running tradition, the Hogeye Marathon captures the energy of Fayetteville's college-town atmosphere and finishes at the iconic Downtown Square, offering full marathon, half marathon, and relay options for runners of all levels.

Run under the magical glow of the full moon on one of Arkansas's most iconic peaks. The Full Moon 50K takes ultra runners on an unforgettable nighttime journey through Pinnacle Mountain's rugged trails in the scenic Ozark foothills, creating an atmosphere unlike any other race in the Natural State. This unique night ultra, hosted by the Arkansas Ultra Running Association, offers both 50K and 25K distances for runners seeking adventure after dark.

Experience the thrill of crossing three iconic Arkansas River bridges on this scenic point-to-point marathon through Little Rock's beautiful waterfront. This February race offers cool weather and a small, community-focused atmosphere perfect for runners seeking a memorable race without the crowds.

The Athens Big Fork Trail Marathon takes runners through Arkansas's most remote wilderness along the Ouachita National Forest's most secluded paths. This backcountry marathon offers true solitude for trail runners seeking an escape from crowded courses, with pristine streams and untouched forest scenery. July timing provides long Ozark daylight hours for tackling this challenging remote course with a small, adventure-focused field.

Arkansas's official Backyard Ultra where runners complete one 4.167-mile loop every hour until only the strongest remains. This ultimate test of endurance and willpower awards the winner a coveted spot representing the Natural State at the Big's Backyard Ultra World Championship. Hosted on the technical trails of the Perryville/Little Rock area, it's the race where mental toughness matters more than speed.

Fort Smith Marathon showcases Western Arkansas's premier running event, guiding participants through the scenic Arkansas River valley each spring. As the region's largest marathon, it offers full, half, and relay distances, making it perfect for first-timers and seasoned runners alike. The course captures Fort Smith's charm with riverfront views and a finish-line celebration in the heart of the city.

The Ouachita Trail 50 is a legendary 50-mile ultramarathon that winds through the breathtaking Ouachita National Forest near Mena, Arkansas. As the flagship spring event of the Arkansas Ultra Running Association, this point-to-point wilderness ultra attracts serious trail runners seeking a true backcountry challenge. Runners navigate dense forest, rocky terrain, and remote trails while experiencing some of the most pristine wilderness the Natural State has to offer.

Eight runners unite to tackle 120 miles of rugged Ozark backcountry trails in this legendary team relay adventure. Experience the thrill of running under stars and around campfires as you traverse Arkansas's most stunning wilderness. Ragnar Trail Arkansas isn't just a race—it's a bucket-list journey that transforms strangers into trail family over one unforgettable weekend.

Run to the summit of Arkansas at the Mount Magazine Trail Run, an 18-mile point-to-point adventure across the state's highest peak at 2,753 feet. This rugged Ozark challenge rewards runners with sweeping 360-degree views, dramatic cliffside terrain, and stunning fall foliage through Mount Magazine State Park. Perfect for trail runners seeking to conquer Arkansas's most elevated and scenic footpath.

This 100 mile in Norfork, AR combines competitive racing with scenic views, arkansas's ultimate mountain ultra — 100 miles self-navigated through the ozark lakes country near norfork. It's a solid choice for runners of all levels looking for a 100 mile in the Norfork, AR area.

The Arkansas Marathon in Booneville offers an authentic small-town racing experience through the scenic countryside of Logan County. This spring marathon captures the genuine spirit of rural Arkansas with community-focused support and traditional countryside running. Perfect for runners seeking a personal, uncrowded race experience away from big-city marathons.

The Next Loop at Pinnacle Mountain is Central Arkansas's premier trail endurance event, offering distances from 5K to 50K across two seasonal editions each year. Whether you're a first-time trail runner or a seasoned ultramarathoner, this Flint Creek Endurance classic showcases the region's most breathtaking singletrack, rolling ridgelines, and panoramic summit views that make every mile unforgettable. The multi-distance format allows runners to progressively build endurance or test their limits on the challenging 50K while enjoying spring blooms or crisp fall foliage along Pinnacle's legendary trails.

Run through the heart of Arkansas's largest college town with the City of Colleges Half Marathon. This unique spring race takes you past three campuses — Hendrix College, UCA, and University of Central Arkansas — in one unforgettable tour. Whether you're a competitive runner seeking a PR or a weekend warrior looking for scenic college-town vibes, this well-organized event delivers an experience that combines athletic challenge with collegiate energy.

Tackle 200 miles of pure Ozark adventure on this legendary team relay through Arkansas's most breathtaking backroads and spectacular fall scenery. Teams of 2-12 runners journey from start to finish in the eccentric Victorian town of Eureka Springs, creating memories that last a lifetime. Perfect for experienced relay teams seeking a bucket-list challenge through America's most stunning backcountry.

Run the Fayetteville Half Marathon through stunning Ozark backroads surrounding Arkansas's most progressive city. This smaller-field fall race captures the vibrant college-town energy of Fayetteville while showcasing the natural beauty that makes Northwest Arkansas a hidden running gem. Perfect for runners seeking a less crowded alternative with authentic local charm.

Experience rural Arkansas at its finest on the White River Marathon, where runners trace the stunning Cotter valley corridor along one of the Ozarks' most picturesque waterways. This intimate spring marathon draws athletes seeking uncrowded roads, breathtaking scenery, and that rare small-town race atmosphere where volunteers know your name. From the historic Cotter bridge to serene river overlooks, every mile showcases why this hidden gem has become a bucket-list destination for runners craving authentic back-country racing.

The Grit and Guts Trail Race is the Arkansas River Valley's signature 20-mile trail running event through the beautiful but demanding Ozark Mountains near Dardanelle, Arkansas. This April race offers both 20-mile and half marathon options, making it perfect for experienced trail runners seeking a challenge and newcomers eager to experience authentic Ozark terrain. Runners rave about the perfect balance of difficulty and runnability, with stunning scenery that makes every mile worth the effort.

Bubba's Backyard Ultra in Conway, Arkansas is the original backyard ultra that started Arkansas's love affair with the last-runner-standing format. Runners tackle a 4.167-mile loop every hour on the hour until only the strongest remain, making this a true test of endurance, strategy, and mental fortitude. This isn't just a race—it's a battle of wills where every finisher earns the ultimate bragging rights.

The Scorchin' Squirrel Trail Run is Central Arkansas's premier fall trail race, offering 20-mile, 15-mile, 11-mile, and 10K distances across Pinnacle Mountain's best singletrack trails. Runners tackle challenging terrain through stunning autumn Ozark foliage while enjoying the Natural State's most scenic wilderness. Whether you're an experienced ultramarathoner or trail running newcomer, this event delivers unforgettable fall scenery and genuine Southern hospitality.

Experience the Ozarks like never before at the Mission Run in the Ozarks marathon in Mountain View, Arkansas. Run through the state's beloved folk music capital where live tunes echo through the finish line, making every mile a celebration of Ozark culture. This spring race captures authentic small-town Arkansas at its finest, perfect for runners seeking scenic mountain views and genuine Southern hospitality.

This 10k in Hot Springs, AR showcases AR's trail running scene, with a hot springs' signature trail. It's well-suited for runners looking to explore Alabama's trail networks while pushing their limits. The course offers memorable scenery throughout.

Run through one of America's most culturally vibrant small towns with the Run Bentonville Half Marathon. This scenic 13.1-mile course weaves past world-class public art installations and winding trails, finishing near the stunning Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Perfect for runners seeking a fast, beautiful course with small-town charm and big-city culture in Northwest Arkansas.