Big Sky State Games Road Race
Big Sky State Games Road Race: a flat, fast half along the Yellowstone River.
Race Date
Jul 18, 2026
Location
Laurel, MT
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, July 18, 2026
- Location
- Laurel, Montana
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 3.1 Miles, 6.2 Miles, 13.1 Miles
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 626
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
The Experience
The Big Sky State Games Road Race, hosted in Laurel, Montana, offers a flat and fast half-marathon course that traces the scenic Yellowstone River. With a recent field size of just over 50 runners from five states, this low-key event is as intimate as it is efficient. The 6:30 a.m. start ensures cool conditions before temperatures climb, and the USATF-certified course makes it a qualifying race for the State Games of America, attracting competitors serious about their splits.
The atmosphere is pure community: volunteers staff the aid stations, and the finish line has a small-town feel that rewards persistence with a T-shirt and the satisfaction of a strong time. While the field is small (only about 13% of runners repeat), those who do return appreciate the straightforward logistics and the post-race camaraderie. For runners chasing a PR or a Montana state championship, this is a hidden gem that delivers exactly what it promises: a fair, flat course with river views and minimal fuss.
Race-provided description
This is a fairly flat, fast course on Thiel/River Rd and follows along scenic views of the Yellowstone River and it's wildlife. Big Sky State Games road race competitors can compete in a 5k, 10k or 1/2 marathon. It is a qualifying sport for the State Games of America. All runners must be finished by 10 a.m. NOTE: The 5k, 10k, and 1/2 Marathon are USATF State Championships for Montana Start Times: 1/2 marathon: 6:30 a.m., 10k: 7:30 a.m., 5k: 7:40 a.m. All runners must finish by 9:30 am Early entry fee: 5k and 10k: $35, 1/2 marathon: $40 Late entry fee: 5k and 10k: $40, 1/2 marathon: $45 Day of Packet Pickup entry fee: 5k/10k: $45, 1/2 Marathon: $50 Click to View Course Map
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, July 18, 2026
Start Time
6:30 AM
Giveaway
T-Shirt
Start Location
East Lauralee Lane off Thiel Road (River Road), Laurel, MT, 59044
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Lake River
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Quality Score
Solid Pick464 years running
~54 finishers a year
shrinking
13% returning runners
4 timing sources
runners from 5 states
winner 1:21:51
typical high 90°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
62°
Afternoon (High)
90°
Hot conditions — adjust pace expectations, prioritize hydration
0.0"
Precipitation
11 mph
Wind
41%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 626 finishers actually crossed the line across 12 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
626
Median time
2:03:17
Latest turnout
68
States
25
Turnout by year
2018–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Frequently asked
When is the Big Sky State Games Road Race?
The Big Sky State Games Road Race is held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, starting at 6:30 AM.
Where does the Big Sky State Games Road Race take place?
It takes place in Laurel, Montana.
What distances does the Big Sky State Games Road Race offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 3.1 Miles, 6.2 Miles, 13.1 Miles.
Is the Big Sky State Games Road Race course flat and good for a PR?
The Big Sky State Games Road Race is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
How many people run the Big Sky State Games Road Race?
HalfRuns has finish records for 626 runners who have completed the Big Sky State Games Road Race.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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