23nd Annual Groom Creek Classic: 1/2 Marathon, 10k, 5k Run

Prepare for an exhilarating journey through the scenic Ponderosa Pine forest at the 23rd Annual Groom Creek Classic, set for Saturday, September 19, 2026, in Prescott, Arizona. This highly anticipated event offers a range of distances, including a Half Marathon (13.1M), 10K (6.2M), 5K (3.1M), and a 2M Fun Run, catering to diverse running preferences. The challenging courses are renowned as some of Arizona's most picturesque and demanding, unfolding at an elevation of approximately 5,400 feet amidst the breathtaking woodlands of the Prescott National Forest and Bradshaw Mountains.

Runners in the 5K and 2M distances will navigate smooth pavement with rolling hills, while the 10K and Half Marathon routes promise a varied experience, beginning and ending on pavement but also winding through the forest on wide, smooth dirt roads. The Half Marathon course, for instance, features a gradual uphill start, a significant downhill descent along Upper Wolf Creek, and then mirrors the route in reverse, offering stunning mountain views throughout. Typical race day conditions in mid-September bring pleasant highs around 80-82°F and lows around 51-52°F, with a minimal 5% chance of precipitation, creating ideal running weather in the cooler mountain air.

Committed to environmental responsibility, the Groom Creek Classic operates as a cupless course; all participants receive a reusable, foldable hydration bottle at registration, with water stations available along the routes to refill. Cups are also available at the start and finish lines. This well-organized event, which serves as a fundraiser for the Groom Creek Fire District, is praised by runners for its beautiful scenery and efficient management, including quick packet pickup and free bag check. Race spots are limited, especially for the Half Marathon and 10K, so early registration is highly recommended to secure your place in this exceptional race.