5 Races You Haven’t Heard Of To Run This Summer
Nat Runs Far recommends five US races to sign up for this summer!
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Can it really be the first of June already? The year is nearly half over and the summer season is here in full force. Who’s ready to rock their training and run some really great races this summer? Here are five fun races that are a little off the radar. One thing’s for sure–they are in stunning locations and you are sure to have a blast!
The Glacier Challenge in Whitefish, MT
If you haven’t ventured to the western, wild, great state of Montana, definitely put this on your bucket list. They don’t call it “Big Sky Country” for nothing. Gorgeous, clear blue skies, incredible mountains, rivers, wildflowers and so much more. Wait, there’s a moose!
The Glacier Challenge offers athletes the choice of running a 5-kilometer, 10K or 8-mile race. You can also race a triathlon, but it’s not just any tri–this one consists of mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking and more. The fun part is that you can take part as an individual or as part of a team. After the race, grab a local beer and check out Glacier National Park. Note: bring bear spray!
When: Saturday, June 24
Vermont 100on100 Relay
Looking for a real summer adventure? Check out the Vermont 100on100 Relay. Arguably one of the most beautiful states in the US, August is a perfect time of year to experience this beautiful green mountain state.
Runner, triathlete and mom of two Sandra Laflamme, author of the blog Organic Runner Mom, gives her stamp of approval: “I love the scenic Vermont 100on100 Relay that runs along gorgeous Route 100 from Stowe to Okemo, Vt.!”
When: Saturday, August 12
Zooma Annapolis Women’s Race
Looking for a race this weekend? Look no further! Zooma puts on a fantastic race and Annapolis, Md. is beautiful in early June. Sue Tate, a runner, mom of two and author of This Mama Runs For Cupcakes, enthusiastically endorses the race and says it offers a great pre- and post-race party as well. Sign us up!
When: Saturday, June 3
Cherry Mile in Traverse City, MI
Hey there, midwesterners and vacationers looking to experience summer life on Lake Michigan! Traverse City is a quaint town with lots to do during the summer months. Summer is the perfect time to tune up on speed, so cruise on over and run a 1-mile race. After you run your heart out, reward your efforts by sitting back and eating a big bowl of cherries. This race is part of the 91st annual National Cherry Festival, taking place July 1–8 in Traverse City.
When: Thursday, July 6
Twilight 5K Run/Walk in Bend, OR
Doesn’t Bend sound like the most idyllic place to run? Imagine green vistas, craft beer and runners everywhere. Vacation there for the week and then jump into the 7 p.m. 5K–sounds pretty easy, breezy to us! Bonus: Bend is home to the Picky Bars HQ and Lauren Fleshman.
When: Thursday, August 10
Happy (almost) summer, and happy racing!