Joshua Tree Half Marathon

The Joshua Tree Half Marathon stands apart as a rare night race through the rugged Mojave Desert. Starting and finishing at Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground, the race takes place entirely after dark, illuminated by headlamps, reflective gear, and a glowing desert sky. Runners follow a challenging loop on sandy dirt roads, with stretches of soft and deep sand making trail shoes essential. While the course skirts, rather than enters, Joshua Tree National Park, the high desert scenery—marked by twisted Joshua trees and clear, star-filled skies—creates a striking visual backdrop. This race is part of the Vacation Races series and closes out the season with an adventurous, community-driven atmosphere, complete with a glowing finish line celebration.