Runtastic NEBO
Utah's NEBO race offers a fast, net-downhill course through Payson Canyon, ideal for Boston Marathon qualifiers.
Race Date
Aug 29, 2026
Location
Payson, UT
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, August 29, 2026
- Location
- Payson, Utah
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 26.2 Miles, 6.2 Miles, 3.1 Miles
- Course
- Point to Point
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Yes
- Finishers on record
- 12,286
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Runtastic NEBO series, held in Payson, Utah, is renowned for its fast, net-downhill courses, making it a prime spot for runners aiming to qualify for the Boston Marathon. The marathon boasts a significant 4,561-foot drop, while the half marathon, 10K, and 5K also leverage elevation for speed.
Runners descend the Mt. Nebo Loop, a scenic path through Payson Canyon. The course is lined with pine trees, features sweeping curves, and offers expansive views of Utah Valley and Utah Lake. This point-to-point design, with a substantial 47.11m/km net drop and 69% start/finish separation, is engineered for fast times.
With 15 editions on record since 2011, the NEBO races typically see around 1710 finishers, drawing participants from approximately 21 states. A notable 27% of runners return in subsequent years, underscoring the event's loyalty. Participants receive a NEBO Race Shirt, and the event is celebrated as Utah's last fast downhill race for Boston Marathon qualification.
Race-provided description
Utah’s Last Fast Downhill Race to Qualify for the 2027 Boston Marathon
You’ll race down Payson Canyon on the Mt. Nebo Loop, surrounded by pine-lined roads, sweeping curves, and views of Mount Nebo, Utah Valley, and Utah Lake far below. Whether you’re taking on the Marathon with its massive 4,561-foot drop, flying through the Half, or pushing for a PR in the 10K or 5K, every course at NEBO comes with speed, elevation, and a challenge worth showing up for. This is where you run hard, dig deep, and let gravity do its job. You bring the grit — the canyon brings the drop.
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, August 29, 2026
Start Time
6:30 AM
Giveaway
NEBO Race Shirt
Start Location
250 South Main St., Payson, UT, 84651
Course Info
USATF CertifiedCourse Type
Point to Point
Terrain
road
Scenery
Forest, Mountain
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Rolling Hills
Net Drop/km
+47.11 m
Separation
69.1%
Also Offers
USATF Certified Course
UT17007TJD · Mt. Nebo Half Marathon
Net downhill course — fast finishing times are common. Point-to-point course layout.
Quality Score
Standout7615 years running
~1,710 finishers a year
shrinking
27% returning runners
USATF certified · 5 timing sources
runners from 21 states
winner 1:05:02
typical high 87°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
61°
Afternoon (High)
87°
Hot conditions — adjust pace expectations, prioritize hydration
0.0"
Precipitation
9 mph
Wind
34%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 12,286 finishers actually crossed the line across 15 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
12,286
Median time
2:02:40
Latest turnout
861
States
41
Turnout by year
2018–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Runtastic NEBO?
The Runtastic NEBO is held on Saturday, August 29, 2026, starting at 6:30 AM.
Where does the Runtastic NEBO take place?
It takes place in Payson, Utah.
What distances does the Runtastic NEBO offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 26.2 Miles, 6.2 Miles, 3.1 Miles.
Is the Runtastic NEBO course flat and good for a PR?
The Runtastic NEBO is a rolling hills, point to point course. The course is USATF-certified, so finish times can be used for qualifying.
How many people run the Runtastic NEBO?
HalfRuns has finish records for 12,286 runners who have completed the Runtastic NEBO.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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