The 3 Best Run/Walk Races Around Utah County

Provo’s running scene thrives on more than just pavement and pacers—it’s a celebration of community, scenery and personal bests. In Utah Valley, races blend desert vistas with mountain backdrops, drawing seasoned marathoners and first-time fun runners alike. In fact, participation in local run/walk events has surged by nearly 20 percent over the last five years as more Utahns seek active ways to socialize and support good causes. Whether you’re chasing a PR or just crossing the line with friends, there’s a course for every pace.

Temple To Temple

Bridging two of Provo’s most iconic landmarks, Temple To Temple offers a 6K run/walk that winds from the BYU campus temple up to the Provo City Center Temple. Since its inception, this race has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for juvenile diabetes research through the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. The out-and-back course hugs foothill vistas, rewarding participants with sweeping valley panoramas as they gain nearly 600 feet of elevation. Runners praise the supportive volunteers and family-friendly atmosphere—kids can even join in the Youth Dash—making Temple To Temple as much about community spirit as it is about speed.

Utah Valley Marathon – Half Marathon & 10K

Known for its fast, mostly downhill profile, the Utah Valley Marathon’s half marathon and 10K courses draw athletes chasing Boston qualifiers and casual joggers alike. Beginning at Dry Canyon Park, the route carves through Utah County’s rolling terrain before finishing in the heart of Provo on Center Street. Race organizers emphasize small-field management—caps keep numbers below 2,000—so everyone feels like a front-runner. Postrace festivities feature a live DJ, food trucks and recovery yoga, ensuring muscles and moods stay limber long after the medals are handed out.

Freedom Run – America’s Freedom Festival

Tied to Provo’s Fourth of July freedom festivities, the Freedom Run offers a patriotic 5K/10K and kids’ mile that kicks off celebrations on the courthouse lawn. Participants don red, white and blue while enjoying fanfare from local marching bands and cheering spectators. All finishers receive an Americana-themed medal, and proceeds help fund community youth programs throughout Utah Valley. Beyond the timing chips and race clocks, Freedom Run doubles as a street fair—walkers can peruse vendor booths, snag funnel cake and join postrace lawn games, making it the most festive way to earn sneakers-and-stripes bragging rights.

Thanks, ChatGPT.