Ultimate Guide to 5K Runs, Walks & Challenges in Greater Palm Springs (2019-2020 Season)
Lace up your running shoes—it's 5K season in Greater Palm Springs! Enjoy ideal weather while joining these popular 5K runs and walks. Advance your fitness goals, support vital causes, and take in the stunning views of this desert oasis.
Y Be Fit Palm Desert Challenge | October 6, 2019
Test your endurance in this 'Reverse Triathlon' at Palm Desert Civic Center Park. Open to all levels, it features a 5K run, 10-mile bike ride, and 300-meter swim. Enhance your well-being while benefiting the Family YMCA of the Desert. Bring your family and get fit for a worthy cause!
Paint El Paseo Pink | October 12, 2019
Join the Desert Cancer Foundation for the 13th annual Paint El Paseo Pink 5K walk along The Gardens on El Paseo in Palm Desert. Support breast cancer screening, diagnostics, and treatment for local residents. Enjoy a sunny day with live music, DJs, merchant shops, and fun activities. Register individually or as a team and receive a pink t-shirt.
Desert AIDS Walk | October 19, 2019
Walk with the community to support health and wellness through the Desert AIDS Project's 32nd Annual Desert AIDS Walk. Help raise funds for medical, dental, housing, and transportation services for those in need in Greater Palm Springs.
34th Annual Tram Road Challenge | October 26, 2019
Tackle this iconic 6K challenge hosted by the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Starting at 400 feet elevation and climbing to 2,600 feet, it's suitable for all ages with over 1,500 participants in past years. Enjoy refreshments, vendors, prizes, and panoramic oasis views at the summit.
7th Annual Run with Los Muertos and Block Party | November 2, 2019
Celebrate Día de los Muertos in Old Town Coachella with music, art, culture, and wellness at this block party. Don sugar skull makeup and run to fund Raices Cultura's community arts, education, and health programs. Honor loved ones while supporting a local cause.
Joshua Tree Half Marathon | November 2, 2019
Experience the stunning Joshua Tree desert landscape in this evening half-marathon, starting just 20 minutes from Joshua Tree National Park. Watch the sunset over mountains and nature for an unforgettable run.
Patriot 5K | November 10, 2019
Photo courtesy of Palm Springs Marathon Runners
Honor veterans in this annual Patriot 5K benefiting Team Red, White and Blue, SOS Rides, American Legion Palm Springs, and Armed Services YMCA. Runner-, walker-, stroller-, and dog-friendly, it starts and ends at Ruth Hardy Park in Palm Springs. Enjoy gifts, awards, and patriotic festivities.
Coachella Valley Heart Walk 5K | November 16, 2019
Become a 'Heart Walk Hero' at Palm Desert Civic Center Park, supporting the American Heart Association. Join walkers to aid those affected by heart disease and stroke. Register with a donation toward the $160,000 goal for lifesaving research, education, and prevention.
Wild Turkey Trot 5K | November 28, 2019
Work up an appetite for Thanksgiving at the Wild Turkey Trot in Downtown Palm Springs. Run through scenic neighborhoods—family- and pet-friendly. Wear festive costumes and contribute to Mizell Senior Center's Meals on Wheels program.
13th Annual Martha's Village & Kitchen Thanksgiving Day 5K | November 28, 2019
Make room for turkey while helping Martha's Village & Kitchen feed the less fortunate. This 8 a.m. race on El Paseo and San Pablo Avenue in Palm Desert includes complimentary gifts, bib numbers, Kids Zone with face painting and crafts, and a Beer Garden (21+). A family-friendly holiday tradition!
Ironman 70.3 | December 8, 2019
Conquer one of Greater Palm Springs' premier triathlons in Indian Wells and La Quinta. Swim at Lake Cahuilla, bike through palm farms, and run loops via Indian Wells Tennis Garden and Indian Wells Golf Resort. Breathtaking views await this rewarding challenge.
Santa Paws 5K | December 21, 2019
Dog lovers rejoice! Join this festive 5K benefiting Guide Dogs of the Desert, complete with a 5-piece Santa costume. Kids enjoy the 200m Elf Dash with hat and Ben & Jerry's gift certificate. Or support as a 'Scrooge'—pure holiday cheer!
PSIFF 2020 Red Carpet Run 5K & 10K | January 11, 2020
Gear up for the Palm Springs International Film Festival with this movie-themed run. Pass celebrity homes, pose for paparazzi, and sign 'autographs.' Dress in red carpet glam (prom attire welcome) or get a tutu and tiara with registration.
New Balance Palm Desert Half Marathon & 5K | February 9, 2020
Greater Palm Springs' longest-running half marathon starts at Palm Desert Civic Center Park. Run or walk scenic routes, or join a 2-3 person relay. Includes t-shirt, goodies, beer garden, 1K kids fun run (ages 4-13), and awards.
Discover more ways to stay active with Greater Palm Springs fitness activities.
