Thirsty 13 Half Marathon
A point to point that gives back about 1,400 feet from Hesperus through Wildcat Canyon, finishing at a Durango brewery with the beer already poured.
Every link above goes to the race, its timing provider, or an official registration partner. Last checked July 28, 2026.
Quick facts
- Point to point with roughly 1,400 feet of net elevation loss, which makes it a common personal best target.
- Starts near 8,000 feet in Hesperus and finishes at Ska Brewing in Durango.
- Two entry tiers, race only or race plus a San Juan Brewfest ticket.
- Recent fields have run roughly 400 to 500 half marathon finishers.
2026 Thirsty 13 Half Marathon registration
Registration for the 2026 Thirsty 13 Half Marathon runs through the official registration page at runsignup.com.
About the Thirsty 13 Half Marathon
This is the biggest half marathon in the Durango area, pulling 400 to 500 finishers to a course built for fast times. Entry comes two ways, race only or race plus a San Juan Brewfest ticket, and the finish area at Ska Brewing turns into the party either way. It draws a lot of runners attempting a first half or a personal best on the descent.
Course
The race starts at Hesperus Church near 8,000 feet, runs south on the La Plata Highway, then picks up County Road 125 for roughly four miles of steady downhill. From there it turns into Wildcat Canyon and runs past Lake Nighthorse on the way into town, losing about 1,400 feet overall. A short climb known as Ska hill in the final mile is the one place the course pushes back.
Race-day weather
Late August mornings in the La Plata Valley start cool, often in the 50s at the high point of the course. The descent runs into warmer air and strong high altitude sun, so the closing miles usually feel hotter and brighter than the start line did.
Past Thirsty 13 Half Marathon dates and results
| Year | Date | Status | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Saturday, August 29, 2026 | Upcoming | — |
Thirsty 13 Half Marathon FAQ
When is the Thirsty 13 Half Marathon?
The 2026 Thirsty 13 Half Marathon is on Saturday, August 29, 2026.
How do I register for the Thirsty 13 Half Marathon?
Register for the Thirsty 13 Half Marathon through the official registration link: marathonscout.com/go/thirsty-13-half-marathon/register. It opens the race registration page at runsignup.com.
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