By Tasia Potasinski
Running and traveling are two of my favorite things, so I jump at the chance to pack both into one. Many people travel around the world to “destination races,” whether they’re at the Great Wall of China or in the streets of New York City. Living in the Bay Area, we’re lucky enough to have many such destination races right in our backyard.
These four destination races in the Bay Area will whet your appetite for wanderlust.
1. Rock Tahoe Half Marathon
When: June 18, 2016
Test your luck in the casino and on the race course. As you might expect, the Rock Tahoe Half Marathon runs parallel to the stunning blue waters of South Lake Tahoe and ends at the Hard Rock Casino. At the finish, you’ll find live music, beer and food to refuel.
Pros: Run along crystal-clear blue waters — and if you’re up for it, jump in to cool off afterward.
Cons: There’s an open lane of traffic adjacent to the race course. While the track is certainly safe, the cars can be a bit of a distraction.
2. The Napa-to-Sonoma Wine Country Half Marathon
When: July 17, 2016
If you aren’t drunk off the scenery from this 13.1-mile race, with its soft, rolling hills cloaked by picturesque woods, you will be from the post-race wine. All it takes after running a good, hard race is a glass or two (I’m speaking from experience here); and runners typically get vouchers for wine simply by registering. You can also experience wine in a whole-new way after the race by participating in grape-stomping activities.
Pros: Compared to the sharp, steep hills of Russian Hill and Nob Hill, this course is a walk in Golden Gate Park.
Cons: This race is popular — too popular. Registration fills up within 30 minutes of race bibs going on sale. But don’t fret just yet! They often set aside a few tickets for a ticket lottery.
3. The Yosemite Half Marathon
When: October 8, 2016
This mostly downhill half marathon is the perfect excuse to visit Yosemite. If you’re like me, you’ll find yourself pondering your existence and the meaning of life, feeling dwarfed while running among Sequoia trees, the giants of the forest.
Pros: You get to be immersed in the majestic embrace of the Yosemite Valley.
Cons: The course has stretches of uneven footing, which the official race site describes as “rough trail terrain,” so practice trail-running beforehand, and watch your step through the start of the race.
4. Big Sur Half Marathon (on Monterey Bay)
When: November 13, 2016
Does the Big Sur Half Marathon start in Big Sur? No. Does it end in Big Sur? No. Still, the Big Sur Half Marathon, which actually takes place in Monterey Bay, brings out a great crowd of locals with coffees in hand and Bernese mountain dogs on leash. Oh, and the long stretches of ocean views aren’t bad either.
Pros: You can dream-house-shop while running along parts of the 17-mile scenic drive.
Cons: It can be shockingly chilly at the race start; this year it was around 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
