Pioneertown Half Marathon

Event Overview

The Pioneertown Half Marathon is part of the John Wayne Grit Series and takes place on March 21, 2026. It is held in Pioneertown, California, near Joshua Tree National Park, at an elevation of 4,400 feet. The event benefits the John Wayne Cancer Foundation, with proceeds supporting cancer research and programs.

Distances and Schedule

The event offers two timed distances: a half marathon and a 10K.

• The half marathon starts at 8:30 AM.
• The 10K starts at 9:30 AM.

Packet pickup occurs the day before the event and on race morning at The Sound Stage (The Barn) on Mane Street in Pioneertown.

Course and Logistics

The course is described as rugged, featuring hills with views of the high desert and Sawtooth Mountains in the Pioneertown Mountains Preserve. The half marathon has a 5-hour cutoff time, and the 10K has a 4-hour cutoff. It is a cup-less event; participants must bring their own hydration to refill at aid stations. There are 4 water stations on the half marathon course and 2 on the 10K course.

Free parking is available at locations including The OK Corral. Spectators are welcome.

Participant Information

All participants receive a John Wayne Grit Series shirt and a finisher mug. A digital photo booth, photographers, and videographers will be present. Special bibs reading "I run for..." are provided for runners to write the name of a honoree. Cancer survivors receive a complimentary yellow bandana at packet pickup (while supplies last). The event includes podium prizes for the top three male and female finishers in each distance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.