Heatwave Half Marathon - Des Moines
Des Moines' Heatwave Half Marathon offers a hot summer challenge with custom swag and cool treats.
Race Date
Jul 26, 2026
Location
Des Moines, IA
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, July 26, 2026
- Location
- Des Moines, Iowa
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 50m, 1 Miles, 5K, 10K, 13.1 Miles, Volunteer Then Run, Virtual Race
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Heatwave Half Marathon in Des Moines promises a true summer running experience. This established event, first run in 2002 and now in its 20th year, draws runners from across the country for a 13.1-mile challenge. The course is a fast, flat loop, making it a prime candidate for personal bests.
Expect a lively atmosphere under the summer sun, with temperatures typically ranging from 70-88°F. Runners receive a designer tank top and a custom finisher medal, with free ice cream at the finish line to help cool down. The event also includes 5K and 10K options, making it a family-friendly affair. A steady field trend suggests a loyal following, with many participants returning year after year.
Race-provided description
Join us for the Heatwave Half Marathon, 10K, & 5K! A sun-soaked summer challenge that’s perfect for the whole family. The fun includes – Great Swag – designer shirt & custom medalChip-timing with live results and awardsFree photosFREE ice cream at the finish to help you cool offPlenty of hot fun in the summer sun!
Grab your friends and family—you won’t want to miss this one! Can’t make the race? No problem! We offer a virtual race option where you can run anywhere, at any time, and still earn the fun swag! Youth-based pricing is available: ages 12 & under are only $17! Half Marathon/10K/5K registration includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal! 1 Mile registration is untimed and includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal! Kid’s Dash is a fun, untimed dash for ages 10 and under. Registration includes a mini bib, youth-sized shirt, and a specially crafted medal for our youngest runners! (If your child wants to run the kid’s dash without swag, they’re welcome to run free on race day!) Register by midnight on Thursday, two Thursdays before race day, to guarantee your shirt!
Logistics
Race Day
Sunday, July 26, 2026
Start Time
7:00 AM
Giveaway
Tank Top
Start Location
Trestle Trail, Des Moines, IA, 50310
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Course Map
Quality Score
first year
no finisher counts yet
small race — neutral
needs a few years of results
3 timing sources · 7 photos
no finisher data yet
no winner time yet
typical high 88°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
70°
Afternoon (High)
88°
Hot conditions — adjust pace expectations, prioritize hydration
0.1"
Precipitation
11 mph
Wind
72%
Humidity
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Heatwave Half Marathon - Des Moines?
The Heatwave Half Marathon - Des Moines is held on Sunday, July 26, 2026, starting at 7:00 AM.
Where does the Heatwave Half Marathon - Des Moines take place?
It takes place in Des Moines, Iowa.
What distances does the Heatwave Half Marathon - Des Moines offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 50m, 1 Miles, 5K, 10K, 13.1 Miles, Volunteer Then Run, Virtual Race.
Is the Heatwave Half Marathon - Des Moines course flat and good for a PR?
The Heatwave Half Marathon - Des Moines is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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