The Early Years
2008Established in 2008, the Mountain Goat Half Marathon is now 18 years old. From its first edition in Ketchum, it has evolved into a race that reflects the character of its host region in United States.
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Course & Elevation
Starting in downtown Ketchum, runners ascend through the scenic Wood River Valley with stunning views of Bald Mountain. The course follows rolling terrain through pine forests and mountain meadows, with the turnaround at the summit viewpoint before descending back to downtown. The combination of altitude (starting at 5,850 ft), sustained climbing, and scenic mountain vistas creates a challenging but rewarding experience.
Surface: road Profile: Hilly
Weather
Temperature 18°C
Humidity 45%
Rain Chance 25%
Early summer mountain weather with cool mornings and mild afternoons. Low humidity and excellent visibility typical for this high-altitude venue in central Idaho.
The Race
Ketchum
Race Lore
The Hills That Break You
With 580m of elevation gain, the Mountain Goat Half Marathon is not a course for the faint-hearted. The climbs are where races are won and lost — where the gap between training and undertrained reveals itself without mercy. Locals say the course doesn't beat you; it just waits for you to beat yourself.
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Registration
Registration Opens March
Registration Closes June
Entry Cost $75-$95
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Fun Facts
- ▸ The Mountain Goat Half Marathon starts and finishes in Ketchum, home to the legendary Sun Valley ski resort, creating a unique year-round mountain running destination.
- ▸ At 5,850 feet elevation with 580 meters of climbing, runners experience significant altitude effects despite being a half-marathon distance.
- ▸ The race supports local youth trail running programs, with proceeds funding mountain running camps and scholarships for young athletes in central Idaho.
- ▸ The turnaround point offers 360-degree views of the Sawtooth Mountains, making it a popular photo spot and motivational final push for competitors.
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