Escape the lingering chill of winter and embrace the warmth of Southern Utah at the Sun Marathon on January 24, 2026, in Santa Clara, UT. Offering a full marathon (26.2M), half marathon (13.1M), 10K, and 5K, this event caters to a spectrum of runners seeking a challenging yet picturesque experience. Typical race day conditions are delightfully mild, with highs around 55°F and lows near 29°F, alongside a low 7% chance of precipitation, ensuring a comfortable climate to test your limits.

The Sun Marathon is celebrated for its breathtakingly scenic and predominantly downhill courses. The full marathon embarks from the Veyo Fairgrounds, guiding runners along a distinctive route down Gunlock Road, past the tranquil Gunlock Reservoir, and traversing the ancestral lands of the Shivwits Paiutes Tribe. While the marathon boasts a significant net descent of approximately 2,600 feet, strategic climbs are interspersed to maintain an engaging rhythm. Participants are treated to awe-inspiring vistas of towering crimson cliffs, the verdant Virgin River corridor, and stunning red rock formations. The half marathon commences just beyond Gunlock Reservoir, joining the full marathon course for an equally magnificent journey to the finish. For shorter distances, the 10K and 5K are out-and-back routes, starting and finishing at Gubler Park in Santa Clara, offering charming residential views complemented by glimpses of Red Mountain.

Recognized as a Boston Marathon Qualifier, the Sun Marathon stands out as one of Utah's fastest courses, with a notable percentage of finishers achieving qualifying times. Runners can expect excellent support with aid stations every two miles along the marathon and half marathon courses, providing water, Powerade, and at select locations, GU Gels or fruit, along with essential first-aid supplies. Buses efficiently transport full and half marathoners to their respective starting points, ensuring a seamless start before converging at the jubilant finish line in Gubler Park. While some older feedback mentioned traffic, more recent reviews indicate that drivers are generally courteous, and the race continues to garner praise for its stunning scenery and dedicated volunteers.