12 Best Marathons in Arkansas: Runner’s Guide 2025

From Booneville to Wynne to Cotter to Little Rock to Mount Ida, and more.

Did you know that Arkansas marathon events offer some of the most diverse running experiences in the South? From the towering Ozarks to the flat Delta farmlands, the Natural State’s marathon scene provides both scenic beauty and varied challenges for every type of runner.

Find your next marathon as we explore these unique 26.2-mile adventures that make Arkansas a distinctive running destination.

Looking for a different state? Select one below:

What are the Best Marathons in Arkansas?

Here are the best marathons in Arkansas:

Arkansas Marathon

Booneville | Oct 12, 2024

Course Type: Rolling Hills

Elevation Gain: 1144 feet (348m)

Participants: 20

Price: $96.50

As one of the state’s oldest marathon events, the Arkansas Marathon in Booneville delivers a classic road racing experience through the rural landscapes of western Arkansas. The September race features rolling hills and small-town charm, with the fall timing providing some of the best marathon training weather Arkansas runners can expect. The USATF-certified course offers aid stations every 2 miles and a time limit of 7 hours, making it an excellent choice for runners seeking a traditional marathon challenge outside the state’s larger cities.

Mid-South Races for Hope

Wynne | Nov 2, 2024

Course Type: Flat

Participants: 26

Price: $96.50

Transforming the flat farmland of eastern Arkansas into a lightning-fast marathon course, the Mid-South Races for Hope stands out for its charitable mission and pancake-flat profile. This spring event supports local youth programs, providing runners the opportunity to chase personal records while giving back to the community. With a course time limit of 6 hours and temperatures averaging 48-70°F, the Mid-South Races for Hope is a prime target for marathon qualifying races Arkansas participants.

White River Marathon for Kenya

Cotter | Nov 23, 2024

Course Type: Mostly Flat

Elevation Gain: 482 feet (146m)

Participants: 750

Price: $100

Known as one of the fastest marathon course maps Arkansas has to offer, the White River Marathon delivers stunning scenery along the beautiful White River. Held in November, this Boston qualifying race treats runners to cool fall temperatures ranging from 38-60°F and minimal elevation change, providing the perfect conditions for personal records. Beyond its speed potential, the White River Marathon’s charitable mission to support educational initiatives in Kenya makes it a meaningful choice for runners seeking to make a global impact through their training.

3 Bridges Marathon

Little Rock | Dec 7, 2024

Course Type: Mostly Flat

Elevation Gain: Minimal elevation gain

Participants: 87

Price: $120-$135

The 3 Bridges Marathon leverages December’s perfect marathon training weather Arkansas runners crave (32-54°F) to deliver one of the state’s most scenic urban races. This point-to-point course has become a favorite among marathon qualifying races, featuring crossings of three iconic bridges, including the Big Dam Bridge – North America’s longest pedestrian bridge. The primarily flat course follows the Arkansas River Trail system, combining 85% paved surfaces with brief segments of packed gravel, making it a popular choice for runners seeking Boston qualifying times. With aid stations every two miles and stunning river views throughout, this race perfectly balances speed potential with scenic beauty.

LoVit Trail Marathon

Mount Ida | Dec 7, 2024

Course Type: Very Hilly, Trail

Price: FREE!

For trail running ozarks enthusiasts, the LoVit Trail Marathon stands out as one of the most scenic and challenging marathon events Arkansas has to offer. Taking place in the spring when temperatures are ideal (45-70°F), this single-track course along the Lake Ouachita Vista Trail system features technical terrain, rocky sections, and stunning lakeside vistas. Marathon trail running gear requirements, including hydration packs and emergency supplies, are essential for navigating the LoVit’s remote wilderness areas and creek crossings. Runners are rewarded with breathtaking views and the sense of accomplishment that comes from conquering one of Arkansas’s toughest trail marathons.

Athens Big Fork Marathon

Big Fork | Jan 4, 2025

Course Type: Very Hilly, Trail

Elevation Gain: 2023 feet (616m)

Participants: 200

Price: Free, with a suggested donation of at least $25

Known as the “monster” of ozark mountain marathons, the Athens Big Fork Marathon is not for the faint of heart. Held in January, this event packs over 9,000 feet of elevation gain across eight major mountain crossings, earning it a reputation as one of the most challenging trail marathon difficulty ratings in Arkansas. Runners must be prepared for technical descents, stream crossings, and remote sections requiring self-sufficiency, making prior trail marathon experience a must. Those who conquer the Athens Big Fork can take pride in completing one of the most grueling marathon events Arkansas has to offer.

Papa Loco Marathon

Conway | Jan 25, 2025

Course Type: Mostly Flat

Elevation Gain: 445 feet (135m)

Participants: 34

Price: $45

Offering one of the more forgiving marathon elevation profiles in central Arkansas, the Papa Loco Marathon in Conway delivers a community-focused running experience. The loop course design makes it easy for spectators to cheer on participants, while the spring race timing (45-65°F) provides ideal marathon training weather Arkansas runners prefer. Known for its festive atmosphere and local food vendors, the Papa Loco Marathon combines a fast, flat route with a celebration of Conway’s vibrant culture, creating a memorable experience for runners of all abilities.

Little Rock Marathon

Little Rock | Mar 2, 2025

Course Type: Rolling Hills

Elevation Gain: 1009 feet (307m)

Participants: 12,000

Price: $95-$150

The crown jewel of the Arkansas running calendar 2024, the Little Rock Marathon has earned its reputation through its legendary 2.5-pound finisher medals and thoughtfully designed course. This March race draws thousands for its tour of the capital city, featuring strategically placed marathon aid stations Arkansas runners appreciate every mile. The course combines urban exploration with park pathways, offering enough hills to be challenging without being overwhelming, especially during miles 8-13. With temperatures typically ranging from 45-62°F and experienced marathon pace groups Arkansas available from 3:30 to 6:00 finish times, it’s an ideal choice for both first-timers and seasoned marathoners looking to experience Southern hospitality at its finest.

Mission Run in the Ozarks

Mountain View | Mar 29, 2025

Course Type: Hilly

Participants: 20

Price: $90

Blending the natural beauty of the Ozark Mountains with the small-town charm of “The Folk Music Capital of the World,” the Mission Run in the Ozarks offers a truly unique marathon experience. The point-to-point course features challenging switchback climbs between miles 14-18. Runners are rewarded with stunning Ozark vistas and a lively post-race celebration that captures the essence of the local community.

Fort Smith Marathon

Fort Smith | Mar 30, 2025

Course Type: Rolling Hills

Elevation Gain: 1337 feet (407m)

Participants: 23

Price: $85.80-$105.80

Combining the historical significance of Arkansas’s second-largest city with a well-designed marathon course, the Fort Smith Marathon offers both urban scenery and riverside beauty. The February event takes runners through the city’s charming downtown, past iconic landmarks, and along the scenic Arkansas River. The marathon elevation profiles Arkansas runners receive show a rolling first half, transitioning to flatter riverside sections perfect for making up time. Situated in the winter months, the Fort Smith marathon route provides ideal marathon training weather Arkansas runners seek, with temperatures averaging 35-55°F and hydration stations positioned every 1.5 miles.

Hogeye Marathon

Fayetteville | Apr 12, 2025

Course Type: Rolling Hills

Participants: 2,600

Price: $75.20

Showcasing the rolling terrain and vibrant spring scenery of Northwest Arkansas, the Hogeye Marathon in Fayetteville offers a challenging yet scenic 26.2-mile adventure. The April race features 1,900 feet of elevation gain, including some steep climbs between miles 18-21 that put runners’ training to the test. While the Ozark Mountain views and enthusiastic small-town atmosphere provide ample motivation, the Hogeye Marathon is no easy feat, requiring experienced marathon training Arkansas runners to be well-prepared for the technical course. Those who conquer this race can take pride in earning their finisher medals amidst the region’s beautiful spring blooms.

Mainly Marathons Riverboat Series Day 2

Lake Village | Apr 15, 2025

Course Type: Flat

Elevation Gain: 43 feet (13 meters)

Price: $120

Part of a multi-state marathon series, the Mainly Marathons Riverboat Series Day 2 in Lake Village provides runners the rare opportunity to complete multiple 26.2-mile races on consecutive days. The flat, looped course along the Mississippi River features less than 100 feet of elevation change, making it an excellent choice for marathon pace strategy practice and split timing. With aid stations available every loop, this race caters to runners focused on optimizing their marathon performance.

Conclusion

Arkansas’s diverse marathon scene truly offers something for every runner – from Boston-qualifying opportunities to challenging trail adventures. Each race brings its own unique character, whether you’re conquering the hills of the Ozarks or speeding through the flat farmlands of the Delta. By choosing from these top-rated events, you’re not just entering a race; you’re becoming part of Arkansas’s vibrant running community. Ready to lace up your shoes and experience these incredible marathons? Pick your perfect race, start training, and I’ll see you at the finish line!

Row Brown

Row Brown is the founder of Refresh Row. He is a keen marathon runner, his favorite being the London Marathon. He’s now set himself the mission of Running the Entire Length of Spain, which is scheduled for late 2024.