10 great 5K runs to build a vacation around
Work in a work out on your next vacation by building a trip around a scenic 5K. Runs through wilderness areas, historic sites and big cities allow participants to combine exercise with sightseeing, says Michael Epstein of MESP, the executive producer of September’s Nautica Malibu Triathlon. While triathlons are demanding, many runs in similarly spectacular areas feature less-daunting five-kilometer (3.1-mile) courses. “They are very doable. You’ve got a lot of people running, or even walking these events,” he says. Epstein shares some favorites with Larry Bleiberg for USA TODAY. But register early because many sell out.
Running with the Balloons
Readington, N.J.
Runners may have difficulty watching the road because of the distractions floating overhead at this event about 50 miles west of New York City. It’s part of the annual QuickChek New Jersey Festival of Ballooning, which features mass ascensions of up to 100 hot air-fueled craft. “The finish line is right in the middle of the festival,” Epstein says. “Balloons decorate the sky and the male and female winners each get a free ride.” Race date: July 31. balloonfestival.com
Freedom’s Run
Shepherdstown, W.-Va.
Runners follow the trail of Civil War soldiers on this Blue Ridge Mountain route, near four national parks and several battlefields. Area sites include Harpers Ferry, where abolitionist John Brown led a slave rebellion, and Antietam, Md., site of a notoriously bloody Civil War battle. Race date: Oct. 1. freedomsrun.org
Run Crazy Horse
Crazy Horse, S.D.
This race, centered on the still-unfinished Crazy Horse Memorial, puts runners in the middle of the Black Hills. “It’s Indian country, it’s spiritual and it’s an incredible part of our nation’s landscape,” Epstein says. And the 5K is all downhill. Race dates: Oct. 8-9. runcrazyhorse.com
Chardonnay Run
San Diego
Although it might seem like an odd pairing, Epstein says it makes perfect sense to finish off a race with a crisp chardonnay, particularly when it’s on scenic Mission Bay. “The slogan is ‘Wine at the Finish Line,’” he says. The race often draws women running in groups, who relish the chance to “get exercise in the outdoors and feel good about celebrating because they’ve basically earned their glass.” Race date: Oct. 30. thechardonnayrun.com
Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas 5K
What better way to experience Sin City than running down the middle of the Strip? “It’s at night and under the lights. And the finish line is right at the volcano at the Mirage. It’s pretty cool,” Epstein says. Past post-race concerts have featured entertainers like Macklemore, the Goo Goo Dolls and Pitbull. Race date: Nov. 12-13. runrocknroll.com
Fort Lauderdale A1A Marathon, 1/2 Marathon, 5K, Kids Race
The oceanside run is conveniently scheduled for February. “It’s not so hot in Florida and it’s freezing everywhere else in the country so it’s a great time to come,” Epstein says. “The course is fast and flat.” The day following the 5K, an affiliated 6K Run for the Pink benefits breast cancer research. Race dates: Feb. 18-19, 2017. a1amarathon.com
Credit Union Cherry Blossom 5K Run/Walk
Washington
Nobody will notice your colorful workout gear when Washington’s cherry blossoms are in full flower. “For a runner this is just incredible. It doesn’t get more beautiful,” Epstein says. The route passes near major monuments and crosses the Potomac River on the Arlington Memorial Bridge. Registration is by lottery. Race date: April 3, 2017. cherryblossom.org
Ham Run Half Marathon and 5K
Grand Marais, Minn.
You might have moose or eagles watching your progress on this run along the Gunflint Trail National Scenic Byway through Superior National Forest. The course passes granite outcroppings and goes by stands of pine, aspen and birch trees. “It’s basically miles from the nearest town, through the wilderness,” Epstein says. Race date: May 2017. cookcountyymca.org/healthyliving/ham-run-half-marathon
Fallen Heroes 5K Run/Walk
New Castle, Del.
Participants run through history on cobblestoned streets through this 17th-century Delaware River city. “It’s an old colonial village, one of the most historic places in America,” Epstein says. The run honors former resident U.S. Air Force Airman Elizabeth Loncki, who was killed in Iraq. Race date: May 2017. oldnewcastlerun.com
Lake of the Woods 5K
Klamath Falls, Ore.
This run in the Cascade Mountains of southern Oregon centers on a natural lake. “It’s crystal clear and you can see right down in the water,” Epstein says. “It’s absolutely beautiful.” The route on paved paths takes runners through the Fremont–Winema National Forest. Race date: June 2017.linkvillelopers.org