The Bryce Canyon Half Marathon celebrates its 15th anniversary
Nearly 1,500 racers are expected to participate in this year’s event
By Brendan Gwynn
What started as a local scouting project 15 years ago has grown into a popular annual activity in Bryce Canyon Country. The Bryce Canyon Half Marathon — which takes place July 14 in Cannonville — was initiated in 2004 with the intentions of bringing visitors to the area. Now the event is expected to have around 1,500 participants, including individuals from foreign countries such as Norway and Colombia.
“Many of our guests are international visitors, which goes to show how special the area really is,” said Lance Syrett, general manager of Ruby’s Inn. “Bryce Canyon Country is definitely one of the world’s most unique and beautiful regions, and we excitedly welcome everyone who travels to spend time with us. Between the sites, activities, and events such as the Bryce Canyon Half Marathon, guests will have plenty to enjoy.”
The Bryce Canyon Half Marathon starts at Ruby’s Inn July 14 at 6 a.m., traveling along Highway 63 and Scenic Byway 12 before finishing in Cannonville. Over the course of the race, runners will drop more than 1,800 feet in elevation. Runners who are unable to complete the half marathon by 9 a.m. will be picked up by a shuttle so that Scenic Byway 12 can open both lanes of traffic. The top five overall male and female runners receive cash prizes divided out from $3,000.
In addition to the 13.1-mile race, the Bryce Canyon Half Marathon includes a 5K and a Color Me Fun Run. The Color Me Fun Run takes place in Cannonville July 13 at 6:30 p.m. while the 5K will be held in Cannonville July 14 at 6:30 a.m.
The fee to register for these races before June 30 is $50 for the half marathon, $30 for the 5K, and $10 for the Color Me Fun Run. After June 30, some registration fees increase. Registration includes a finisher’s medal (awarded at the finish line) and a runner’s shirt designed for this year’s event. Runners will also have access to water stations and portable toilets along the routes as well as bagels, fruit, and chocolate milk in the runner’s corral at the end of the race. Race packets can be picked up July 13 between noon and 10 p.m. at the Grand Staircase National Monument Visitor Center in Cannonville.
In connection with the Bryce Canyon Half Marathon, a spaghetti dinner sponsored by the Bryce Valley Booster Club is being held July 13 from 5 to 7 p.m. near the finish line in Cannonville. The meal includes spaghetti, a dinner roll, salad, and lemonade. The dinner is a separate event from the race and costs $8 for those 13 and older and $5 for those under 12. Funds raised from the dinner will go toward supporting athletics at Bryce Valley High School.
“We are privileged to be such an integral part of the Bryce Canyon Half Marathon,” Syrett said. “The event is perfect for families of all ages and is sure to be memorable for those who attend.”
Aside from the Bryce Canyon Half Marathon and associated activities, Bryce Canyon Country features many other summer adventures that can be enjoyed. These activities include hiking, biking, exploring, swimming, horseback riding, and off-roading. Ruby’s Inn also offers several great activities, which can be found online.
For more information about the event, visit brycecanyonhalfmarathon.com.
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