Hook Mountain Half Marathon & Rockland Lake 10K

The Hook is a long-standing community half-marathon known for its challenging hill climb in the last few miles. This year’s Half will again start and finish at the Rockland Lakes North Parking Lot (Field #1) by the Pavilion. This year for the first time in the Hook Half history we will have pacers!
We are also incorporating a 10K race, as there are not many local 10K races. Like the Half, it will start and finish at the North parking lot. Unlike the half, this will be a fairly flat course with two loops around Rockland Lake.

This race benefits Meals on Wheels a local organization that been improving the quality of life for aging Rockland County residents for over four decades. Everyday they provide fresh and nutritious meals to older adults, while the daily visits provide a vital safety check and friendly conversation that reduces loneliness and isolation.
Achilles International is a global organization that endeavors to transform the lives of people with disabilities through athletic programs and social connection. Their main program focuses on running, where they bring hope, inspiration and the joys of achievement to all. They empower the disability community by breaking down barrier to race start lines, and all the way to crossing the finish line.

• 8:00 AM Half Marathon Race Start
• 8:10 AM Kids Fun Run
• 8:30 AM 10K Race Start

The Hook Half Marathon and 10K in an inclusive event for all runners, regardless of race, religion, sex, gender, or sexual orientation. All are welcome to participate, and we look forward to seeing you on 12th April! 

The Half Marathon starts at the Rockland Lake North parking lot and follows the inner lake path clockwise for almost a complete loop. At 2.75 miles, runners make a 180 degree turn onto Rockland Lake Road. We proceed along the road through rolling hills south to Landing Road and then down (and we mean down) to the footpath along the river where we turn and head south toward Nyack Beach.  Runners proceed through the parking lot, up the hill and around the toll booth. Runners retrace their steps north along the river then up the big hill to Landing road and back along Rockland Lake Road where they rejoin the inner path at the South Parking lot.  The final 1.5 miles is counterclockwise around the lake path to finish in front to the North Pavilion.  View the route on Strava here.

The 10K Run / Walk is a family friendly run that comprises two loops around the lake.  The bike path is flat and for speedsters a great place to set a personal best, and for family and friends of all ages a scenic trip around the lake. 

The Kids Run Fun is a couple hundred yards out and back along the footpath, finishing under the Rockland Road Runners arch. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I walk the course?

Walking the 10K will be no problem.  You will have 3 hours to complete the two loops of the lake. 

Walking the Half Marathon is challenging, but not impossible. You need to maintain about 16 minute miles (4 mph).  The course closes at 11:30 (3 1/2  hours after the start), and the finish clock will be taken down at that time. The aid stations might no longer be staffed.   But, it’s perfectly safe to walk along Rockland Lake Road, and we will check on the last finishers

Can I pick up my shirt and number on race morning?

Yes, if you don't live locally, you can pick up your shirt and number at the North Pavilion on race morning.  Please arrive at least 1 hour before your event starts so our volunteers are not overwhelemed by a last minute rush.  If you can, it's much better to go to the packet pickup at Meals on Wheels on Saturday so you arrive ready to go and no fumbling with safety pins. 

Where do I Find the Course Map?

The course description is at the bottom of the main race page.  Here is a diagram of the route. You can also view the Half Marathon and 10K routes on Strava. 

Will there be Fluid Stations on the course?

Yes, at miles 1.5, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 11.5 of the Half Marathon course (and every 1.5 miles on the 10K).  The water stop at miles 6 and 10 will also have Gatorade. 

My plans changed, can I get a refund?

Unfortunately, no.  Like all charity races, our expenses are committed in advance and any refunds take away from the money that goes to the beneficiaries of the race.  If you have truly extenuating circumstances, contact the race director and ask for a deferral or a transfer to another Rockland Road Runner event. 

Sunday 29th March

Get your race questions answered by the people who know the course the best! 

Join our guest bartenders from Rockland Road Runners, Meals on Wheels and Achilles International at Gentle Giant Brewing Company in Pearl River. Enjoy a premium craft beer selection from over 12 fresh taps, and maybe some grub too. All beer is brewed on the premises.
Cash tips go to the 2026 Hook Half and 10K at Rockland Lake in April.

Bartender Schedule:
3:00 Joe Sorbanelli (Achilles) and Niels Dua (RRR)
3:45 Kevin Hardy (MOW) and guest
4:30 Joe Schorn and Bruce Meyer (RRR)
5:15. JC Santa Teresa (Race Director) and Michael Dua