Sonoma County Marathons

If you’re fleet of foot with a sense of adventure and perhaps a competitive streak, Sonoma County’s lineup of marathons in gorgeous scenery is calling you.

There are plenty of half-marathons and a few smaller races here, too, that allow more folks to join the fun, fitness, and festivities that come from completing their race.

Here’s a look at Sonoma County’s marathon and half-marathon events:

April 

Annadel Half Marathon, 10K & 5K: This event happens in Sana Rosa in the beautiful Trione-Annadel State Park. The challenging half marathon features a hilly course with a more than 1,500-foot elevation gain. There’s also a 10K and an easy-going, out-and-back 5K. A post-race meal is provided to all contestants. The Annadel 5K raises money to build new trails in Taylor Mountain Regional Park.

May 

Windsor Run & Wine Half Marathon: Take your pick from a 13.1-mile half marathon for runners only, or a 6.2-mile and 3.1-mile race where walkers are welcome. All events start and finish at the Town Green in Windsor.

July 

Napa to Sonoma Half Marathon: Selected as a top half-marathon finish by Runners World, which described it as a “life experience,” this popular race starts at Cuvaison Carneros Winery, winds through picturesque wine regions, and finishes in the historic town of Sonoma. Often, the event spans the weekend, offering a 5K on Saturday and the half marathon on Sunday. Runners can pair the two events to receive a special gift and enjoy fun activities all weekend.

August

Santa Rosa Marathon & Half Marathon: This race includes a 5K and 10K on Saturday, and a half marathon and marathon on Sunday. The full and half marathons take you through Santa Rosa and the lovely surrounding countryside. Both are certified courses, and the full marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifying race. There is a fun after-party on both days in Santa Rosa’s Courthouse Square.

September

Petaluma Clo-Cow Half Marathon, 10K & 5K: Check out these beautiful courses through bucolic farm country and rolling hills dotted with cows. The course starts and ends in historic downtown Petaluma. All finishers receive a unique medal. More cowbell, anyone?

October

Cloverdale Vineyard Races Marathon: Wind through the beautiful Alexander Valley, starting in Cloverdale. Run on paved country roads and groomed dirt or gravel among vineyards resplendent in fall colors, with views of the Russian River valley.

Hallowine Run: This end-of-wine-harvest- and Halloween-themed race usually includes a spirited cast of characters. The scenic half marathon course starts at the Francis Ford Coppola Winery in Geyserville. The 10K starts at Martorana Family Winery in beautiful Healdsburg. Both finish at the Warm Springs Recreation Area with festivities, wine, a costume contest, and awards.

For more races, check out Biggest Running Events and Marathons in Sonoma County.

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Written by Sonoma Insider Suzie Rodriguez