Running Races in Austin
Austin has exploded as a running destination. The trails around Lady Bird Lake, the rolling hills of west Austin, and the year round warm weather make it a runner paradise. The city hosts a top tier marathon, dozens of trail races, and a huge social running scene centered around the hike and bike trail. If you like running and tacos, you have found your city.
Best Months
October to April
State
Texas
Top Race
Austin Marathon
Total Races
5+ featured
Major Races in Austin
Austin Marathon
Marathon/HalfHilly, challenging course through downtown and the Hill Country. Great crowd support.
Statesman Capitol 10K
10KThe biggest 10K in Texas. 20,000+ runners through downtown Austin.
Run for the Water
10 MilerFast course along Lady Bird Lake. Beautiful scenery.
Turkey Trot Austin
5 MilerThanksgiving morning tradition. One of the biggest Turkey Trots in the south.
Decker Challenge
Half MarathonOut and back course east of the city. Great December racing weather.
Course Terrain
Flat along Lady Bird Lake and east side. Rolling hills in west Austin and the Hill Country. Trail running is huge with Barton Creek and Walnut Creek greenbelt trails.
Race Day Tips for Austin
Hydrate obsessively. Austin heat and humidity can surprise you even in February.
The Austin Marathon hills are real. Train on hills or walk the west Austin sections.
Parking downtown is tough on race day. Use ride share or park at a nearby hotel.
Post race, walk to a taco spot. The breakfast tacos in Austin are recovery food at its finest.
Running Clubs in Austin
Rogue Running
Austin institution. Group runs, coaching, and race teams.
Trail Roots
Trail running community with weekly group runs in the greenbelt.
November Project Austin
Free outdoor workouts every Wednesday at the Capitol steps.
Turn Your Austin Runs Into a Game
Austin is growing fast and so is the territory to claim. Loop Lady Bird Lake, capture the greenbelt, and build your running empire across ATX.
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MoteraExplore Austin Running Routes
Looking for where to train between races? Check out our full running guide for Austin with top routes, terrain info, and local tips.
Running in Austin GuideFrequently Asked Questions
Is the Austin Marathon hilly?
Yes. The Austin Marathon is one of the hillier major marathon courses in the US. Miles 5 through 12 include significant climbs through west Austin. It levels out for the second half.
What is the biggest race in Austin?
The Statesman Capitol 10K is the largest race in Austin with over 20,000 participants. The Austin Marathon weekend (marathon and half combined) draws about 18,000 runners.
Can you run year round in Austin?
Yes, but summer running (June to September) is brutal with temperatures above 95F and high humidity. Most runners shift to early morning or evening runs in summer. Fall through spring is perfect.
Where is the best place to run in Austin?
The Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail around Lady Bird Lake is the most popular running spot. The 10 mile loop is flat, scenic, and heavily used by runners.
Are there trail races in Austin?
Yes. Barton Creek Greenbelt, Walnut Creek Park, and McKinney Falls State Park all host trail races. Trail Roots running club organizes many of the local trail events.
