Cedar City Half Marathon Draws 700 Runners For Scenic Canyon Descent

Some 700 runners made their way to Wood Ranch early Saturday morning to run the canyon in the 17^th annual Cedar City Half Marathon to experience one of Southern Utah’s most scenic—and unusual—road races. The 13.1-mile event takes participants from the upper reaches of Cedar Canyon down into Cedar City, with the canyon closed to vehicle traffic while the race is underway.

Racers were bussed to the start line from the parking structure at the Heritage Center. When they arrived at Wood Ranch, there were warming stations to help keep them warm, along with a DJ playing music to keep the crowd excited. Just before the race started, the city put on an aerial drone show with a nod to the America 250 celebration.

Runners Leaving Wood Ranch Saturday morning / Dr. T

The race began at 7:00AM.

Runners Descend Almost 3,000 Feet Over The Race Course.

Wood Ranch is at an elevation of approximately 8,408 feet. From there, runners descend through Cedar Canyon, following SR-14 alongside Coal Creek before eventually leaving the highway and transitioning onto Cedar City’s trail system. The final portion of the race follows trails through areas including Canyon Park and the Veterans Ball Fields before finishing at the Bicentennial Soccer Complex. The total descent is roughly 2,800 feet, making the Cedar City Half both a scenic race and an attractive high-altitude training opportunity for runners preparing for longer races.

Runners Were Treated To A Drone Show Before Starting The Race / Dr. T

This year the event included an Adventure 5K for those who aren't quite ready—or simply aren't interested in—running 13.1 miles. The 5K started farther down Cedar Canyon, not far from Ruty's Ranch House. It followed the same general concept of combining canyon scenery with Cedar City’s trail system. 5K racers began at 7:30AM.

Bicentennial Park Hosts Celebration At Finish Line / Chris Holmes

The city had a huge celebration waiting for the runners at Bicentennial Park, including live music from 90's cover band Empire Records along with award ceremonies.

Runner Crosses Finish Line At Bicentennial Park / Chris Holmes

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Race organizers emphasized the runner experience, with aid stations positioned along the course and volunteers, music and spectators helping keep participants moving toward the finish. There is also something rather appealing about running down a canyon without having to share the road with automobiles.