St. George Marathon 2024

St. George Marathon 2024: A Celebration of Endurance and Community

The St. George Marathon, now in its 48th year, is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of community, endurance, and breathtaking scenery. Known for its fast, beautiful course and exceptional organization, this event draws runners from around the world to experience Southern Utah's iconic red rock landscapes. As one of the most beloved marathons in the U.S., it consistently attracts over 7,000 runners from 48 states and 14 countries. 

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St. George Marathon 2024: Run, Explore, and Celebrate!

The Main Event: St. George Marathon 

On Saturday, October 5th, nearly 8,000 runners will descend from the Pine Valley Mountains to the heart of St. George, covering 26.2 miles of stunning terrain. The race begins at 7 a.m., with athletes tackling a route that drops nearly 2,600 feet in elevation, making it one of the fastest courses in the country. The race has built a reputation for being a top 10 scenic and fastest marathon in the U.S., recognized by Runner’s World as one of the best marathons to “build a vacation around.” 

More Than a Marathon: Events for All Ages 

Not just for marathon runners, the St. George Marathon weekend includes events for everyone: 

• St. George 5K (October 4th at 5:30 PM): Held along the scenic Virgin River, this race allows participants to experience the excitement of marathon weekend without running the full 26.2 miles. Runners who complete both the 5K and Half Marathon earn the coveted Desert Double Medal. 

• Fun Run Walk N’ Roll (October 4th at 6:30 PM): A perfect event for kids (ages 2-18) and individuals with disabilities, this event offers 1-mile and 200-meter distances. Whether you walk, run, or roll, this inclusive event makes sure everyone can participate. 

• Mayor’s Walk (October 5th at 7 AM): Join Mayor Michele Randall for the annual Mayor’s Walk, a 1-mile course from the Washington County School District office to the marathon finish line at Vernon Worthen Park. Participants can enjoy a post-walk scone breakfast, included with registration. 

The Community Spirit of St. George 

What makes the St. George Marathon truly special is the community that surrounds it. From the volunteers who man aid stations and cheer along the route, to the spectators who line the streets, the energy is infectious. Volunteers ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for runners and visitors alike. 

Race Day Expo and Vendor Show 

Leading up to race day, the Marathon Expo on Friday, October 4th, from 11 AM to 8 PM at the Dixie Convention Center gives participants the chance to pick up their race packets and explore a variety of race-related vendors. This is the perfect opportunity to grab last-minute gear or official St. George Marathon souvenirs. 

Traffic Impact and Road Closures for St. George Marathon 

The St. George Marathon will cause several road closures and traffic delays on Saturday, October 5th, 2024. To help you plan ahead, here are the key traffic details and road closures affecting St. George and surrounding areas: 

St. George 

• Main Street: Closed between Tabernacle and 300 South from 6:00 AM to 2:00 PM for the marathon finish line at Vernon Worthen Park. 

• Tabernacle Street: Closed between Main Street and 700 East starting at 6:00 AM. This is part of the Mayor’s Walk and Marathon route. 

• Bluff Street: Expect intermittent closures and delays as runners cross between Snow Canyon Parkway and 100 South. 

• 300 South: Will be closed from Main Street to 700 East for the race finish area. 

Snow Canyon Parkway 

• Partial Closures: Starting at 6:00 AM, the parkway will have closures as runners descend from the mountains. Be prepared for limited access along this scenic route, particularly between Bluff Street and Dixie Drive. 

SR-18 (State Route 18) 

• Major Closure: SR-18 from Pine Valley to Snow Canyon Parkway will be completely closed from 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM to accommodate marathon runners. This is the starting point of the marathon, and all traffic will be diverted to alternate routes. 

Alternate Routes and Recommendations 

• For St. George Residents: If you live near the marathon route or finish line, consider moving your vehicle to an accessible location the night before the race to avoid being blocked in by road closures. 

• For Commuters: Use Old Highway 91 as an alternate route to bypass closures on SR-18. Traffic in other areas may experience delays, so please plan ahead. 

Spectator Parking and Access 

• Designated spectator areas will be set up near Vernon Worthen Park and along Snow Canyon Parkway. Parking will be available near these areas, but space may be limited, so early arrival is recommended. 

For more details on road closures, detours, and traffic impacts, visit the St. George Marathon official website or stay tuned to local traffic updates on race day. Thank you for your cooperation in making this event a success! 

Ready to Join the Fun? 

Whether you’re a marathon runner, a 5K participant, or just someone who enjoys supporting endurance events, the St. George Marathon offers something for everyone. Come out and be part of one of Southern Utah’s biggest and most exciting weekends! 

Want to make St. George your home? If you're inspired by the beauty and vibrant community spirit of Southern Utah, consider making this area your permanent home or vacation getaway. Contact us today to explore available homes in St. George, Hurricane, and the surrounding areas!