The Rock Canyon Half Marathon takes place during the first weekend of December at the Pueblo City Park pavilion in Pueblo, Colorado. The primary event is a 13.1-mile half marathon, complemented by a 5K for those preferring a shorter distance within the same race-day environment. Its history spans four decades, contributing to its high rate of returning participants who view it as more than just a local event.
The half marathon route is a quick course along the Arkansas River, incorporating some dirt trail sections and passing a Nature Center before continuing through open fields where deer are frequently sighted. Aid stations are managed by high-school and club runners, and the participants include everyone from novice half marathoners to experienced trail and road racers. Local running connections are evident in the details, such as reduced entry fees for SoCo and PPRR club members and youth pricing for younger participants.