Painted Hills Half
The Painted Hills Half offers a stunning desert landscape run in Oregon.
Race Date
Sep 5, 2026
Location
Mitchell, OR
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, September 5, 2026
- Location
- Mitchell, Oregon
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 10K, 5K run
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 35
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Painted Hills Half Marathon winds through the dramatic, colorful badlands of Oregon's John Day Fossil Beds National Monument.
This race is a true immersion in a unique desert landscape, with painted hills providing a vibrant backdrop. Runners can expect a fast, flat course that is ideal for achieving personal bests. The race typically sees steady participation, drawing runners from around three states, and is a testament to the allure of its spectacular setting.
First run in 2022, this event offers a compelling destination experience for those seeking a unique half marathon in a truly memorable location.
Race-provided description
Run the Painted Hills Half Marathon, 10K or 5K. Register today! September 2nd, Mitchell, Oregon
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Desert
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Quality Score
2 years running
~17.5 finishers a year
small race — neutral
7% returning runners
3 timing sources · 3 photos
runners from 3 states
winner 1:50:49
typical high 85°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
57°
Afternoon (High)
85°
Hot conditions — adjust pace expectations, prioritize hydration
0.0"
Precipitation
9 mph
Wind
40%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 35 finishers actually crossed the line across 2 years.
Most recent
2024
Total finishers
35
Median time
2:28:28
Latest turnout
14
States
5
Turnout by year
2022–2024
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Painted Hills Half?
The Painted Hills Half is held on Saturday, September 5, 2026.
Where does the Painted Hills Half take place?
It takes place in Mitchell, Oregon.
What distances does the Painted Hills Half offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 10K, 5K run.
Is the Painted Hills Half course flat and good for a PR?
The Painted Hills Half is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
How many people run the Painted Hills Half?
HalfRuns has finish records for 35 runners who have completed the Painted Hills Half.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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