Spa Running Festival

The Spa Running Festival presented by Window Mart - Half Marathon, 10K, 5K & Squirt Race

Come Run With Us, November 14th, through beautiful Hot Springs National Park!   The Spa Running Festival is an event for everyone .... kids, beginners to elite runners and those that like a challenge!  The Squirt Race is for kids 2 - 10 years of age. The 5K is a fast and flat course!  The 10K, now celebrating its 45th year, and runners enjoy the beauty of running West Mountain. This will be the 11th running of the Summit2Summit Half Marathon. Do you like a challenge - well you get to -  the course takes you through the scenic National Park going summit to summit on Hot Springs Mountain/North Mountain AND West Mountain! 

Benefits of the Spa Running Festival:
♦The beauty of Historic Downtown and Bathhouse Row
♦ Running through Hot Springs National Park 
♦ Expo on Friday 
♦ A great Long Sleeve Technical Shirt 
♦ An awesome Medal for All Participants (5K, 10K, Half Marathon and Squirt Race)
♦ Fast and Flat Course for 5K
♦ Corral Start's for 5K and 10K
♦ Team Registration 
♦ Finish Line Festival area includes Grilled Burgers, Hot Soup, Pizza, Snacks and Beer Tent
♦ Live Music in the post-race finishing area, performed by Jacob Flores! 
   Recently voted in the 2025 Reader Choice Award - Best Local Performer!

Come enjoy the Expo on Friday at the Hot Springs Convention Center.  Then, after the race, hang around to enjoy great food, the beer tent, picture taking, socializing and bragging rights that you conquered (BOTH) mountains.   

Proceeds from the 2025 race will benefit these non-profit organizations:  Friends of the Parks, Arkansas Spa Pacers Buzz Wilson Scholarship Program, Literacy Council of the Ouachita, Humane Society of Garland County, The CALL in Garland County.                                       

The Spa Running Festival has a race for every family member so Come Run With Us through Hot Springs National Park, Saturday, November 14th, a landmark event in beautiful, historic downtown Hot Springs!

Host Hotels:

We appreciate the Embassy Suites, Hotel Hot Springs and Oaklawn Resort Hotel and Spa partnering with us to offer special rates to those traveling out of town. Special rates are available at the hotels listed below.

10.23.25 Update The Block of Rooms Are Sold Out. Embassy Suites  - 400 Convention Blvd, Hot Springs, AR 71901, Phone: 501-624-9200. Hotel located at the start/finish line.  Rates are $159 for  2 double beds suite or king bed suite.  The dates available are Thursday, November 13 through Sunday, November 16. Special room rates are available until 5 pm CST October 15th. Checkout time 11:00. There is also a $10.00 charge for guest's overnight self-parking. Complimentary parking across the street and behind the property.  

The Block of Rooms are Sold Out as of 10.23.25  Click here to make reservations online. This link is specifically for the Spa Running Festival! If you call to make reservations, please ask for the Spa Running Festival Block Room Rate. www.hotsprings.embassysuites.com. 

Hotel Hot Springs - 305 Malvern Avenue, Hot Springs, AR 71901. Walking distance to the start line. 

Rates: $119 single or $119 double occupancy. Special rates are available until October 31; after that rooms can be reserved for the best available rate, based on availability. Check-in time is 4:00 pm and check-out time is 12:00 pm. Click this link to book your reservations online or call Toll Free - 877-623-6697 or Direct - 501-623-6600 and identify being with the Spa Running Festival.  hotelhotsprings.org

Oaklawn Hot Springs, Arkansas  * Racing * Casino * Resort Hotel and Spa 2705 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901 
Something for everyone, multiple dining venues, entertainment, casino, day spa and much more! 
Rate: $170 Deluxe Double Queen or Deluxe King! To book your reservations click this link enter group code BK13 and password 13748079
Rate is good for Friday and Saturday!
www.oaklawn.com 

Who benefits from the Spa Running Festival?

The Spa Running Festival is run by volunteers from the community so 100% of the proceeds from the event are given to local non-profit organizations. Below are the 5 local, non-profit organizations that have been selected to received donations from the 2025 race proceeds!

  ♦ Hot Springs Friends of the Park – Friends of the Park is a non-profit organization dedicated to development and stewardship of Hot Springs area public parks. Individual and Corporate partnerships are available for projects identified in the Hot Springs Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan. The master plan is a comprehensive guide for future parks, recreation and open space development.

  ♦ Spa Pacers Buzz Wilson Scholarship Program - Proceeds from the Festival also fund numerous Buzz Wilson scholarships awarded to local high school seniors involved in the sport of running and/or fitness and who exemplify the principles identified in the Spa Pacer's mission statement.       Below is a picture of our 2024 Scholarship recipients! 

 ♦ Humane Society of Garland Cnounty - The HSGC makes a difference in the lives of animals in Hot Springs and throughout Arkansas. Our board, staff, volunteers, and supporters are dedicated to building an environment in which human relationships with animals are guided by compassion. As united animal lovers, we are a truly humane society whose members care about animals and show it. They are located at 1321 Hwy 128, Lonsdale, AR (501) 623-5012

 ♦ The  CALL of Galand and Hot Spring Counties -  The CALL in Garland & Hot Spring Counties exists to recruit, train and support families from the Christian community right here in our own county who will care for children in foster care. Keeping those children locally is a win for everybody. The goal when a child comes into foster care is almost always reunification with the original family. Of course, it’s much easier to make that happen when everyone involved is still in the county. The are located at 312 West St. Louis St., Hot Sprnigs, AR 1-501-772-2522
♦ Literacy Council of the Ouachitas - Established in 1983 as an adult educational nonprofit, the Literacy Council of the Ouachitas offers one-on-one and small group tutoring.  We value literacy as a basic human need. We value respect as a tool for fostering growth, increasing accessibility and collaboration to ensure an inclusive learning environment. Our Vision is to remove barriers and provide support in relentless pursuit of a literate community. Supporting individuals by building multi faceted literacy skills is our Mission. They are located 119 Hobson Ave., Hot Springs, AR 501-624-7323

Below is the press release detailing the donations made to the benefactors from the 2024 Race Proceeds:

Spa Running Festival Gives Back to the Community! 

The Spa Running Festival, presented by Window Mart, is excited to announce the awarding of $42,250 from the 2024 race proceeds! 

The Spa Running Festival marked another successful year on November 16, 2024, achieving a sold-out event! Race Director Cindy Baswell stated that the event sold out three and a half months prior to race day and expressed her excitement that the race's increasing popularity indicates runners are eager to participate and enjoy their time in Hot Springs. The Spa Running Festival drew over 2,000 registered runners from across Arkansas and 32 states to compete in various events, including the 13.1-mile Summit2Summit Half Marathon, the Spa 10k, the 5k, and the Squirt race for children aged 2 to 10.

On April 14th, a reception took place at the Fredrick Dierks Nursing Building at NPC. During the event, checks were presented to representatives from local non-profit organizations and to high school students receiving scholarships. The 2024 race's donation program allocated a total of $42,250 and the four local non-profit organizations included were: 

·       $7,000 awarded to Hot Springs of Friends of the Parks. Friends, formed in 1994, is made up of volunteers from the community working to increase or preserve our parks, greenways, trails, bicycle routes, wetlands, and recreational activities in both the city of Hot Springs and Garland County.   

·       $6,000 awarded to Ouachita Children, Youth and Family Services. OCYFS serves our most vulnerable population, Children and Youth throughout Arkansas providing advocacy, safety and skill building activities that empower them to build lifelong success. They also provide a safe, secure emergency shelter and advocacy program for victims of domestic violence and their children through their Ouachita Family Center. 

·       $6,000 awarded to Path Project, a program of Ouachita Behavioral and Wellness.  Path Project helps in transiting the under-served and under-resourced individuals from homelessness, through Community Outreach Diagnostic Screening and Therapeutic Treatment, Case management services and Referrals for substance abuse, primary healthcare, job training, educational opportunities, and housing.

·       $6,000 was awarded to the Project Hope Food Bank – Project Hope is dedicated to serving Central Arkansas by providing access to nutritious foods for seniors, children, and families in need. Established in 2009 by Ted Thompson, the Food Bank serves agencies in seven Arkansas Counties: Garland, Hot Spring, Montgomery, Pike, Pulaski, Saline, and Union.  Their programs are aimed at promoting health and well-being by increasing access to nutritious foods for those facing food insecurity. Through collaboration with various nonprofit organizations, including food pantries, shelters, schools, and community programs, they strive to address the root causes of hunger and support vulnerable populations across our region.

In addition, the Arkansas Spa Pacers Buzz Wilson Scholarship Program received $13,000. This program grants scholarships to high school seniors active in running or fitness who demonstrate the values outlined in the Spa Pacers' mission statement. Applicants submit a formal online application and a letter of recommendation, which the Scholarship Committee, chaired by Lorri Saracini, then reviews. The scholarship recipients and school represented are:

·     Chris Chancellor, Lake Hamilton 

·     Audrey Herrell, Lake Hamilton 

·     Lani Inman, Lake Hamilton

·     Adam Luhasz, Lake Hamilton 

·     Brisonn Johnson, Jessieville 

·     William Lewis, Lakeside 

·     Chay Menzies, Lake Hamilton 

·     Morgan Paul, Lakeside 

·     Darian Rhodes, Lakeside 

·     Annabel Sarver, Lakeside 

·     Henry Simmons, Hot Springs

·     Breanna Townley, Lakeside 

·     Zander Woodward, Lakeside 

Furthermore, in recognition of their support and partnership in ensuring a safe and successful race day, $2,000 was donated to the Hot Springs Police Department. 

Finally, the Spa Running Festival recognized the top three running teams with the highest number of members by awarding them prize money to donate to a local non-profit organization of their choice, in the team's name. The race featured 33 teams comprising a total of 461 registrations. The top three teams and their selected non-profit beneficiaries are listed below:

   1st Place Team $1,000 - Spa Pacers Running Club (81 team members); the non-profit organization selected was Special Olympics.

    2nd Place Team $750 – 501 Fitness (56 team members); the non-profit organization selected was Sunshine Therapeutic Riding Center.

    3rd Place Team $500 – Run for God (54 team members); the non-profit organization selected was Christian Ministries Memorial Playground Fund - CMA PTO. 

Baswell has been involved in the race since 2009 and Race Director for the past 12 years. Since that time, she said, “We have awarded $447,000 to local, non-profit organizations and the scholarship program.  We are so proud that we can give back to the community and allow these amazing organizations to continue their work in helping others in the many different needs and capacities they serve.  They are a true blessing to our community!” 

This year’s Spa Running Festival is scheduled for Saturday, November 15th, 2025.  Online registration opened April 1st and according to Baswell, “registrations are up 72% compared to this time last year, so she predicts the race will sell out again this year and is encouraging everyone that’s going to run in the race to register early at sparunningfest.com because spots are going fast.”

For more information, contact Cindy Baswell, Race Director at (501) 276-8870 or via email cindy@spa10k.com.

 JOIN OR FORM A TEAM WHEN YOU REGISTER! 
1. To form a team, click this link, the team captain selects a name and completes their event registration.  
2. To join a team, a  member will select their event, then scroll down to "Would you like to join a team"; select "yes," then you will be prompted to locate your team name and complete your registration.   
3. Team members DO NOT have to run the same distance, you can choose any of the events: Half Marathon, 10k, 5k, squirt race. 

If the race is NOT sold out (Half, 10k & 5K sold out on 7/29/25), race participants through the Edit Registration tab will be able to:

• View or edit your registration by clicking the Participant Information tab
  
  

• Update your shirt size by clicking the Giveaway tab, click here for how to update your giveaway. All changes must be done by August 1. 
  
  

• Transfer as a gift to another runner by clicking the Transfer to Another Runner tab. Transfers must be done by October 21. click here on how to transfer to another runner.  
  
  

•  Transfer to another event by clicking the Transfer Event tab. All events are sold out so event transfers are no longer an option!  Transfers must be done October 17 if the race is not sold out. click here on how to do event transfer 

Thank you Run Stop Spa City for being our Expo Sponsor!  

The Spa Running Festival Expo is the home of packet pick-up for all pre-registrants, this includes the 5K, 10K and Summit 2 Summit Half Marathon and Squirt Race. 

The Expo kicks off the Spa Running Festival, is free and open to the public, AND is located in the Hot Springs Convention Center.  

WHERE: Hot Springs Convention Center Exhibit Hall B (134 Convention Blvd)

WHEN: Friday, November 13, 2026

HOURS: 12:00 noon – 7:00 p.m.

The Expo features our event sponsors and exhibitors offering Spa Running Festival merchandise and a wide array of products and services geared towards runners, walkers, health-minded consumers to shop for the latest running gear or last-minute race needs. It's going to be a "tailgate" atmosphere so take time to check it out. .  

If you have a service or product that would compliment our race and benefits runners, please contact Steve Adkison at  870-345-8916 to get details for a Expo Vendor Booth or click here.

Note: There will packet pick-up Race Day starting at 6:00 am in the Bank of OZK Lobby Arena (entrance next to Embassy Suites/Laurel St.) 

We're excited to have so many great vendors this year!

2025 Spa Running Festival Expo Vendors:

• RunStop

• Phoebe N Friends

• Dog Treat Lady

• Rexius Nutrition

• Leaf Filter Gutter Protection

• RBS Photos

• Friends of the Park

• Spa Pacers

• Under the Son Visions

• 24/7 SoapStore

• Adrianne Kahn Fine Jewelry & Design

• Andrea's Arts

• Sam's Club

• Restoration Art

• CHI St. Vincent's

• KC Freeze

• US Army Recruiting

• Garden of Love

• EcoView Windows and Doors

• Arkansas Blue Cross/Blue Shield

• Bennett’s Recycling

• AT&T

• Jordan Essentials by Renee

• Black Dog AR

• Rusk and Stone

• PickleStar

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. When?

   All races will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025. 

2. Start times?

   Summit2Summit Half Marathon – 7:00 am

   Spa Running Festival 10K – 7:45 am

   Spa Running Festival 5K  – 8:00 am

   Spa Squirt Race – 11:00 am

3. Where?

   The races will start/finish on Convention Boulevard in front of the Embassy Suites Hotel, address 134 Convention Blvd, Hot Springs, 71901.

4. How far are the races?

   The half marathon is 13.1 miles. This is approximately half of the distance traveled by Pheidippides, a Greek messenger, who was sent from the battlefield of Marathon (get it?) to Athens to announce that the Persians had been defeated. Legend holds that he ran the entire distance without stopping and burst into the assembly, exclaiming "WE HAVE WΟN" before collapsing and dying. Please do not exclaim “WE HAVE WΟN” nor collapse upon crossing the finish line of the half marathon.

   The 10K is obviously 10 kilometers. For the metric system-challenged, that’s a wee bit more than 6.2 miles.

   The 5K is half the distance of the 10K. That’s 5 kilometers – a wee bit more than 3.1 miles.

5. Are the courses certified?

   The 10K course is USAT&F certified, #AR13022DLP, and sanctioned.

   The Summit 2 Summit course is USAT&F Certified, #AR18027WJT and sanctioned.

   The 5K is not certified.

6. Is there a time limit or an age requirement for the half marathon?

   There is a 4 hour time limit (7:00 – 11:00 am) so participants MUST maintain at least an 18:00 minute per mile pace to meet the time limit.  If you have not completed the course within this time, you will be moved to the sidewalk to complete the course. This is for your own safety and security on race day. 

   Also, you must be 13 years old to compete without an accompanying participating adult. 

7. Do you allow race-day registration and packet pick-up?

   There will be race day packet pick-up starting at 6:00 am. If the races are not sold, we do not have race day registrations or any transfers.  
   

8. Do you mail out packets or shirts?

   No, we do not mail out packets before or after the race. Please do not email the Race Director asking if this can be done! 

9. Do you allow refunds, defers or transfers?

   We do not allow refunds or defer registrations to future years; however, participants can make changes to certain race information and can transfer to another event or to another runner, if the races are NOT Sold Out, through the Edit Registration tab which you will find on our website – www.sparunningfest.com .

   Through the Edit Registration tab on sparunningfest.com, registered participants will be able to: 

   • View or edit your registration by clicking the Participant Information tab

   • Edit your shirt size by clicking the Giveaway tab. All changes must be done by August 1st.. 

   • Transfer to another runner by clicking the Transfer to Another Runner tab, must be done by October 21st or the race is sold out, whichever occurs first. 

   • If the race (5K, 10K and Half Marathon) is sold out, you can no longer transfer to another event, you can only transfer your registration to another runner. Transfers to another runner MUST be done by October 21st 

   NOTE: In order to protect our participants and insure a safe event, each individual participating in this event must be officially registered under his or her own name with accurate personal information.  Failure to do so will void the registration and prohibit participation.  Registration entries and race numbers cannot be transferred to another person under any circumstances.  Registration fees are non-refundable in all cases regardless of inability to participate or event cancellation.  The race director reserves the right to cancel the event because of weather, natural disaster or other unforeseen circumstances which pose a significant danger to the participants.

10. Will there be an EXPO?

    Yes, we have an Expo at the Hot Springs Convention Center, Exhibit Hall B on Friday from 12:00 - 7:00 pm so allow some extra time to shop for your latest running gear or last minute race needs; plus several of our sponsors will be there. Race packets can also be pickup for all events, the 5K, 10K, and Summit 2 Summit Half Marathon and Squirt Race. 

11. How is the race timed?

    The race will be timed by Start2Finish.  You will have a disposable bib with MYLAPS ThinTag.

12. What is prohibited…….can I wear headphones, bring my dog, roller skate, or push a stroller?

    While for safety reasons we discourage the use of earbuds and headphones, we do not impose a ban on such devices. Always be aware of runners coming up behind you and the inherent danger of running in the presence of vehicular traffic.  

    Animals are not allowed on the course unless they are assisting visually impaired participants.

    To ensure runner safety and to comply with liability insurance requirements, unregistered runners, unauthorized vehicles, bicycles, skateboards, in-line roller skates, baby wraps, baby joggers or strollers are strictly prohibited on the course. Any type of unauthorized support or pacing will not be allowed including, but not limited to from a car/vehicle (fluid bottles, splits, etc.) as such support would be considered an unfair advantage. Breaking these rules will result in ejection/disqualification from the race.   

13. Where is the best place for family and friends to cheer?

    Due to local programming and contractual restrictions, the event will not be televised - so watching from the comfort of your living room is not an option.  The Start/Finish Line (near the Embassy Suites Hotel) or anywhere along the route on Convention Blvd is a good place to watch and cheer all 3 events.

14. Is the 10K course hilly?

    Really?  It goes over a mountain, 2 miles to be exact; but you have recovery stretches between each hill and the last section is 1/2 mile all down hill.

15. Is the half marathon course hilly?

    Yes. It is even more hilly than the 10k. It goes over two mountains, Hot Springs Mountain/North Mountain and West Mountain and you will be going to the Summit on each mountain. View the Course Maps with elevation charts on the Race Info tab of the www.sparunningfestival.com homepage.

16. Do you have a gear check area?

    Yes. It’s called ‘your car’.  Parking is so convenient that a gear check is not needed.

17. What time does the Spa Squirt start?
    The Spa Squirt starts at 11:00 a.m.

    Do the kids run all together in one race? No, the kids will be grouped in the following age groups: 2-4, 5-6, 7-8 & 9-10.  Each  group will run up Convention Blvd towards Malvern and stop at their designated point and then be escorted by volunteers to the sidewalk and walk back to the podium award area. 

    The Spa Squirt starting line is located in front of the Embassy Suites at 400 Convention Blvd.

    Awards are given to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place finishers for both boys and girls in each age group and given at the award area in front of Bank OZK Arena. 

18. Awards and Location of Award Ceremony?

    The Award ceremony is close to the Finish Line area – walk right into Embassy Suites Hotel and Spa and all Award Ceremonies will be on the 1st floor in the Grand Salon Meeting Room. As you enter Embassy Suites, walk straight back through the Atrium and you are at the Grand Salon.  

    * 5K Awards at 9:00 am

    * 10K Awards at 9:45 am 

    * Half Marathon at 10:30 am.

    Awards are given to the top 3 finishers for each gender for the Half Marathon, 10K and 5K Run/Walk for each age group (starting at 1-9, 10-14. 15-19 up to 75-79 and 80+), as well as Overall, Masters (40+), Grand Masters (50+) and Senior (60+) divisions.      There is an exception in 2 Half Marathon age groups and awards are given for 13-19 and 70+ for both genders.

19. Will there be a medical tent?

    Yes, there will be a medical tent at the finish line and LifeNet ambulance will be on call.

20. Where will aid stations be located?

    5K:  Aid Station at approximately 1.5 mile.  

    10K: Aid Stations will be at 1.5, 4.2 and 5 miles.

    Half Marathon: Aid Stations at mile 1.4, 3.4, 4.2, 5.7, 8.6, 11 and 11.8. 

     

21. Is there a sports drink at the aid stations?

    Yes, there will be water and Gatorade for the 10K and Half Marathon Aid Stations.

22. Where can I park on the day of the race?
    There is ample parking in the Convention Center parking lots which are across the street (Convention Blvd.) from the Embassy Suites. You can also park behind the Convention Center and walk down Laurel Street (between Convention Center and Embassy Suites) and you are right at the entrance of the Bank of the Ozarks Arena. 

23. Directions to the event?
    From 1-30: Coming from the northeast – exit 1-30 onto US 70W (exit 111). Take US 70 (E Grand Ave.) – 20 miles into Hot Springs and turn right onto Convention Blvd. The parking lots will be on the right. 

    Coming from the southwest: exit 1-30 onto US 270 (exit 98B). Take US 270 (Malvern Ave.) – 18 miles into Hot Springs and turn right onto Convention Blvd. 

    NOTE:  Convention Blvd. will be closed after 6:00 am so go past Convention Blvd. and turn right on Spring Street; then turn right on Palm Street. This will bring you to the 2 parking lots across from Embassy Suites.     

24. Where can I park for packet pickup?
    There is ample parking in the Convention Center parking lots which are across the street (Convention Blvd.) from the Embassy Suites. You can also park behind the Convention Center and walk down Laurel Street (between Convention Center and Embassy Suites) and you are right at the entrance of the Bank of OZK Arena 

25. Is there a host hotel?
    We have 3 host hotels, Embassy Suites, Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort and Hotel Hot Springs – for more information go to  sparunningfest.com and click on the hotel tab to view information.   

26. Landmarks? 

    You’ll be running thru the middle of a National Park – of course there are landmarks. The 10k course goes down Central Avenue in front of Bathhouse Row. It takes you by the famed Arlington Hotel.  Around Whittington Park.  Up and over West Mountain where you can enjoy the fall foliage.  The course also goes into the historic district of the city.  You will be on the same ground where legends have walked …. President Roosevelt, Babe Ruth, Bugsy Malone, Dick Gladden.

    Half – add a trip up to the summit of West Mountain where you can see the duck (wink, wink for the older Hot Springs generation).  And then you get to go back up to the summit of West Mountain for a second look.

27. What is the average weather on race day?
    Does it really matter?  Just walk outside the morning of the race.  If it’s warm, wear short sleeves.  If it’s cold, wear gloves.  If it’s raining – well, you’ll get wet. Avg. High: 62°F Avg. Low: 40°F Record High: 77°F Record Low: 23°F 

28. What other things are there to do in Hot Springs over race weekend?
    If you think the race events aren’t enough, you can learn about other events by contacting the Convention and Visitors Bureau of Hot Springs (1-800-SPA-CITY) or visit their website hotsprings.org.

Summit 2 Summit Half Marathon participants - Invite your friends to join you at the Spa Running Festival. If you refer 3 friends to sign up for the Summit 2 Summit Half Marathon, you will receive a refund of $15.00 as our Thank You! When you register, you will receive a special referral link to send to your friends. Hurry though, the offer ends October 15th so hurry and invite your friends! 

If you are interested in hearing more about how your business or organization can be a part of the Spa Running Festival as a sponsor, please reach out to us by emailing cindy@spa10k.com. Together we can discuss the various sponsorship levels available and the benefits that come with each.

As a sponsor, you will have a unique opportunity to increase awareness and exposure for your products and services to not only the local running community, but to the hundreds of visitors who make their way to Hot Springs for the Festival weekend.

We will promote our sponsors through email messaging, web presence at sparunningfest.com, marketing coverage across social media, as well as in Spa Running Festival materials. We hope you will join in supporting our efforts to build collaboration in our efforts to promote both your organization and the Spa Running Festival.

RACE DAY SCHEDULE (NOVEMBER 14th)

(This information is subject to change should any changes be made prior to race day.)

Packet Pickup Starts at 6:00 am At
Hot Springs Convention Center Bank OZK Arena Lobby
398 Convention Blvd, Hot Springs, AR 71901

START/FINISH LINE: 

SUMMIT 2 SUMMIT HALF MARATHON: 
6:00 - 6:45 am:  Pre-registered packet pick-up at Hot Springs Convention Center Bank OZK Arena Lobby
6:45 am:            Line-up (no corral starts), invocation, National Anthem     
7:00 am:            Race starts

• All Half Marathon participants should have a Green color bib.

• Due to the course being certified, the Start Line is further down on Convention Blvd. Look for the Spa Running Festival Inflatable Archway Start Line.
  

• No corral starts.

• We have chip timing at the start of the race, as well as, the finish so your race time begins when you cross the mat at the start line.

• There will be timing mats at the top of North Mountain Summit and West Mountain Summit. BE SURE YOU CROSS BOTH TIMING MATS. 

• All aide stations will have water and Lemon-Lime Gatorade. You should bring any gels you want to use.

• Portable toilets will be at the aide stations on Whittington, West Mountain Triangle and Quapaw.  The National Park's rest room will be open on Hot Springs Mountain. It's on the right just before you reached the Mountain Tower/Overlook. 

• When runners move onto Central Avenue going north outbound, you should transition to the left lane. The right lane next to the sidewalk will be open for emergency vehicles. 

• For the course map click this link 
  
  

SPA 10K:
6:00 -7:40 am   Pre-registered packet pick-up at Hot Springs Convention Center Bank OZK Arena Lobby 
7:30 a.m.          Line-up corral starts by pace, invocation, National Anthem 
7:45 a.m.          Race starts  

• 10K participants should have a Red color bib.

• Corral starts will be available starting with 6:00 min/mile, 7:00 min/mile up to 12:00 min/mile. Please line up in the corral that best matches your usual pace.   

• We have chip timing at the start of the race, as well as, the finish so your race time begins when you cross the mat at the start line.

• When runners move onto Central Avenue going north outbound, you should transition to the left lane. The right lane next to the sidewalk will be open for emergency vehicles. 
  

• Portable toilets will be at the aide stations on Whittington, West Mountain Triangle and Quapaw. 

• For the course map click this link
  

5K RUN:
6:00 -7:45 am Pre-registered packet pick-up at Hot Springs Convention Center Bank OZK Arena Lobby 
7:45 a.m.        Line-up corral starts 
8:00 a.m.        Race starts  

• All 5K Run participants should have a Blue color bib.

• Corral starts will be available starting with 6:00 min/mile, 7:00 min/mile up to 12:00 min/mile corral. Please line up in the corral that bests matches your usual pace. 

• We have chip timing at the start of the race, as well as, the finish so your race time begins when you cross the mat at the start line.
  

• When runners move onto Central Avenue going north outbound, you should transition to the left lane. The right lane next to the sidewalk will be open for emergency vehicles. You should do the same on the return, using the left lane so the right lane can be open for emergency vehicles.  

   

• For the course map click this link

SQUIRT 1K: 
6:00 am - 8:30 am   Pre-registered packet pick-up in the Hot Springs Convention Bank OZK Arena Lobby
8:30 am - 10:45 am - Outside at Bank OZK Arena Lobby Entrance off Laurel Street
10:45 am            Line up corral starts (age groups: 2-4, 5-6 , 7-8 run, 9-10) on Convention Blvd. (in front of Embassy Suites)
11:00 am            Race starts at the Spa Running Festival Start/Finish Line, in front of Embassy Suites.  

• Each age will run up Convention Blvd. towards Malvern Ave.

• Awards will be given at the finish line for each age group

• For more details click this link.
  

*AWARDS CEREMONY FOR 5K, 10K and Half Marathon:

Location:  EMBASSY SUITES GRAND SALON (FIRST FLOOR - 400 Convention Blvd, Hot Springs, AR 71901) 

9:00 am -    5K Awards 
9:45 am -   10K Awards
10:30 am -  Summit 2 Summit Half Marathon

For award categories click here to review in Q&A 

PARKING:

From I-30, Coming from the northeast: exit I-30 onto US-70 W (exit 111). Take US-70 ( E Grand Ave ) – approx. 2 miles into Hot Springs and turn right onto Convention Blvd. The parking lots will be on the right. Convention Blvd from East Grand will be closed at 6:30 am 

Coming from the southwest: exit I-30 onto US-270 (exit 98B). Take US-270 ( Malvern Ave ) - 18 miles into Hot Springs and turn right onto Convention Blvd.  Note: Convention Blvd from Malvern Avenue will be closed at 5:00 am so go past Convention Blvd and turn right on Spring Street, turn right on Palm Street, this brings you to the 2 parking lots across from Embassy Suites. 

There is plenty of free parking surrounding the convention center with the preferred location being the large parking lot on Convention Blvd between Laurel Street and Beech Street – across the street from the Embassy Suites and behind the Convention Center off Malvern Ave./Church Street. 

Street Closings:

Convention Blvd. will be closed starting at 6:00 am until 12:00.
Gulpha Street and Vines Street from 6:00 – 7:30 am for the Half Marathon

POST FINISHING AREA - FOOD, SNACKS AND BEER:

• Live Entertainment by Jacob Flores

• Grilled Beef Burgers and Grill Cheese Sandwiches 

• Hot Soup provided by Capo's Tacos

• Chili by Purple Cow of Hot Springs

• Little Caesars Pizza

• Snacks compliments of Sam's Club

• Chocolate Milk by Hiland Dairy Farms 

• Body Armor Sport Drink by Coca Cola Bottling Company of Hot Springs    

• Michelob Ultra Beer - provided by Arkansas Beverage – MUST BE 21 TO GET A WRISTBAND (SO BRING PHOTO ID) AND A BEER TICKET. 

  
  

Timing Tag and Race Results - Race results are provided by Start2Finish. Click this link to see official race results, which will be posted online after the race at runsignup.com Please report any timing issues to Start2Finish before leaving the race.  

Your bib will have a disposable MYLAPS ThinTag attached to the back that will record your time.  We have 2 timing mats so your time starts when you step on the start mat at the start of the race and then the finishing mat at the end. 

Official Race Photographer -  RBS Pics will be on the course taking photos of all 3 races and capture your moment crossing the finish line. Thanks to our sponsor, Visit Hot Springs, ALL Race Photos will be FREE to race participants. An email will be sent to all finishers after the race to view your free photos.  Their website is:  www.rbspics.com

Race Rules and Regulations:

• We want you to have fun and enjoy the race, but we do have some basic rules that will ensure that things run smoothly.

• No baby joggers or strollers are allowed.

• No pets (dogs), roller blades, skateboards, bikes, etc. are allowed in any of the races.

• Race numbers must be worn on the front outer most layer of clothing and must be visible at all times.

• Each individual participating in this event must be officially registered under his or her own name with accurate personal information. Failure to do so will void the registration and prohibit participation.  Registration entries and race numbers cannot be transferred to another person under any circumstances. 

The Spa Running Festival presented by Window Mart - Half Marathon, 10K, 5K & 1K Squirt Race

Come Run With Us, November 14th, through beautiful Hot Springs National Park!   The Spa Running Festival is an event for everyone .... kids, beginners to elite runners and those that like a challenge!  The Squirt Race is for kids 2 - 10 years of age. The 5K is a fast and flat course. The 10K, now celebrating its 45th year, and runners enjoy the beauty of running West Mountain. This will be the 11th running of the Summit2Summit Half Marathon. Do you like a challenge - well you get to -  the course takes you through scenic Hot Springs National Park going summit to summit on Hot Springs Mountain/North Mountain AND West Mountain! 

Benefits of the Spa Running Festival:
♦The beauty of Historic Downtown and Bathhouse Row
♦ Running through the National Park 
♦ Expo on Friday 
♦ A great Long Sleeve Technical Shirt
♦ An awesome Finisher Medal for All Participants (5K, 10K, Half Marathon and Squirt Race) 
♦ Fast and Flat Course for 5K
♦ Corral Start's for 5K and 10K
♦ Team Registration 
♦ Finish Line Festival area includes Grilled Burgers, Hot Soup, Pizza, Snacks and a Beer Tent
♦ Live Music in the post-race finishing area, performed by Jacob Flores! 
   Recently voted in the 2025 Reader Choice Award - Best Local Performer! 

Come enjoy the Expo on Friday at the Hot Springs Convention Center, Exhibit Hall B from 12:00 - 7:00 pm. Runners can pickup their race packets but the Expo also features our event sponsors and exhibitors offering Spa Running Festival merchandise and a wide array of products and services geared towards runners, walkers, health-minded consumers to shop for the latest running gear or last-minute race needs. Then, after the race, hang around in the Food Court Area to enjoy great food, the beer tent, picture taking, socializing and bragging rights that some of you conquered (BOTH) mountains.   

Proceeds from the 2025 race will benefit these non-profit organizations:  Friends of the Parks, Arkansas Spa Pacers Buzz Wilson Scholarship Program, Literacy Council of the Ouachita, Humane Society of Garland County, The CALL in Garland County.

                                     

The Spa Running Festival has a race for every family member so Come Run With Us through the National Park, Saturday, November 14th, a landmark event in beautiful, historic downtown Hot Springs!

The 10K RACE SOLD OUT 3 months before race day last year

and is going to sell out again this year so register early!

Click here for 10k Medal Reveal 

The medal spins - front and back view!

This will be the 45th running of the Spa 10K, which started this festival in 1982.   The Spa 10k has been a part of the Arkansas Grand Prix Series since 1983. The course USATF Certificate Code is #AR13022DLP.

We have a cap of 675 race participants for the 10K race. 

• Participants should maintain a 19.21 pace per mile to complete the 10K course in 2 hours.  Our race has a start line mat and finish line mat so your race time starts when you step on the start line mat.

• All participants will receive a Long Sleeve Technical Shirt and Finisher's medal.  Once the design has been completed, we will post a graphic here. 

• Registrations are non-refundable and cannot be carried forward to the next year; however, we do allow a transfer to another event or person;, provides the races are not sold out; follow instructions on the "edit registration" tab at sparunningfest.com..
  
  The race starts on Convention Blvd and takes you through beautiful downtown Hot Springs with its majestic bathhouse row complete with the spas and rich history. Next, the route takes you over West Mountain for 2 miles where the winding road meanders through pines and mixed hardwoods. Down the other side, you are met with the electric homes of the Quapaw Historic District and then finish back on Convention.  The course is run on paved roads!

10K turn-by-turn course description:

• Beginning on Convention Blvd (Palm and Convention) east bound lanes proceed to Malvern Ave.
• Right on Malvern Ave to Spring St.
• Left on Spring St. to Central Ave.
• Right on Central Ave. to Whittington Ave.
• Left on Whittington Ave.  Proceed around Whittington Ave. loop park & back to West Mountain Dr.
• Right on West Mountain Drive to Prospect Ave.
• Right on Prospect Ave to Pecan St.
• Straight on Pecan St. to Flint St.
• Left on Flint St. to Quapaw Ave.
• Left on Quapaw Ave. to Market St.
• Right on Market St., crossing Ouachita and Central Ave. to Broadway
• Left on Broadway, under bank and crossing Malvern Ave. to Convention Blvd.
• Thru to Convention Blvd.
• Finish on Convention Blvd prior to Palm St.

Click on the PDF icon below to view the 10K course map.

The 5K Race SOLD OUT 3 months before the race last year so register early!  

Click here for 5K medal reveal

The Spa Running Festival 5K is a flat course that is an out and back that takes you through downtown bathhouse row on Central Avenue to the beginning of Whittington Park.

• Participants MUST maintain a 24.08 pace per mile to complete the 5K course in 1 hr 15 minutes Our race has a start line mat and finish line mat. Your race time will start when you step on the finish line mat.

• All participants receive a Long Sleeve Technical Shirt and Finisher's medal. Once the design have been completed, we will post a graphic on this page. 

• Registrations are non-refundable and cannot be carried forward to the next year; however, we do allow a transfer to another event or person, provided the races are not sold out; refer to the  "edit registration" tab at sparunningfest.com..  

5K turn-by-turn course description. 

• Beginning on Convention Blvd (Beech and Convention) east bound lanes proceed to Malvern Ave.
• Right onto Malvern Ave to Spring St.
• Left onto Spring St. to Central Ave.
• Right onto Central Ave. to Whittington Ave.
• Left onto Whittington Ave. (West bound)  
• Left on Water Street
• Left on Ozark Street
• Right on Whittington Ave. (Eastbound) to Central Ave. 
• Right Turn on Central Ave. to Market St.
• Left on Market St. to Broadway St.
• Left on Broadway St. to Convention Blvd.  
• Right on Convention Blvd . 
• Finish on Convention Blvd adjacent to Beech St.

Click on the PDF icon below to view the 5k course map.

THE SQUIRT RACE HAS SOLD THE LAST 2 YEARS SO BE SURE TO GET YOUR KIDS REGISTERED.

                             
                                                             
The Squirt Race starts at 11:00 am at the Spa Running Festival Start/Finish Line on Convention Blvd. (across from Embassy Suites). The kids will run towards Malvern Ave. There will be 2 distances - a short distance (.25 mile) for the 2-4 and 5-6 group and a longer one (.50 mile) for the 7-8 and 9-10 age groups. 

The age groups are:

Ages 2 - 4*

Ages 5 - 6

Ages 7 - 8

Ages 9 - 10

*Parents are allowed to run/walk with the younger kids.

Immediately after each age group race, the awards will given to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers for each age group, both girls and boys!

Questions, contact Megan Greeson, Squirt Race Director at 501-690-6099

Thank you to these sponsors for supporting the 2025 Spa Squirt Race: 

Powered by:                                                           Bib Sponsor: 

     Blue Sponsors:

• Bennett's Plumbing LLC           

Shirt Sponsor:

The Half Marathon sold out 4 months before race day in 2025 so register early! 

Click here to see the Summit 2 Summit Half Marathon Medal Reveal
The medal spins and light up! 

This will be the 11th running of the Half Marathon (thanks to COVID, we didn't have the half marathon in 2020).  The Summit2Summit Half Marathon takes you over both Hot Springs Mountain/North Mountain Summit AND West Mountain Summit!  And the course is run on paved roads! USATF/RRTC Certification #AR18027WJT

• We have a cap of 675 runners for the November 14, 2026 race. 
  
  
• Participants MUST maintain at least a 18:18 pace per mile to meet the 4 hour time limit (7:00 am to 11:00 am) of completing the course. There will also be a course cut-off time of 9:50 at the10K Summit on West Mountain. If you can't meet this time requirement, please select another event.
  
  
• You must be 13 years old to compete without an accompanying participating adult.
  
  
• Registrations are non-refundable and cannot be carried forward to the next year; however, you will be able to transfer to another event or person if the races are not sold out. Follow instructions on the "edit registration" tab at sparunningfest.com. 
  

• Summit 2 Summit Half Marathon turn-by-turn course description:
  Note:  Each mountain has approximately 500 feet elevation gain so for both mountains that would be a total of 1,000 feet of gain.
  

• Start (Palm/Convention) on Convention Blvd (east bound lanes) proceed to Malvern Ave.
• Left onto Broadway St. to Market St.
• Right onto Market St. to Central Ave.
• Right onto Central Ave. to Fountain Street
• Right onto Fountain Street to Hot Springs (North) Mountain Drive.
• Continue to Hot Springs (North) Mountain Drive to Hot Springs (North) Mountain Loop and complete loop.
• From loop take right on Hot Springs Mountain Drive to go down Fountain Street.
• Right onto Central Ave. to Whittington Ave.
• Left onto Whittington looping Whittington Park to West Mountain Drive
• Right onto West Mountain Drive to Summit Drive
• Right onto Summit Drive making the loop at the top of the summit
• Return to West Mountain Drive
• Follow West Mountain Drive to Prospect Ave.
• Right onto Prospect Ave to Pecan St.
• Straight on Pecan St. to Flint St.
• Left onto Flint St. to Quapaw Ave.
• Left onto Quapaw Ave. to Market St.
• Right onto Market St., crossing Ouachita and Central Ave. to Broadway
• Left onto Broadway, under Region’s bank and crossing Malvern Ave. to Convention Blvd.
• Thru to Convention Blvd.
• Finish on Convention Blvd near Palm St.

You may also click on the PDF icon below to view the course map.

Race Information:

Start times:  All races start and finish on Convention Blvd. in front of Embassy Suites (Embassy’s address is 400 Convention Blvd.) and are run on paved roads.

The Half Marathon starts at 7:00 am (about 1/4 mile further down Convention Blvd); the Spa 10K  at 7:45 am and the 5K Run/Walk at 8:00 am. The Squirt Race starts at 11:00 am - also on Convention Blvd under the Main Finish line area.  

Course Safety: While for safety reasons we discourage the use of earbuds and headphones, we do not impose a ban on such devices. But if you’re wearing headphones, how will you hear the crowd cheering at the finish line? Animals are not allowed on the course unless they are assisting visually impaired participants. Because the safety of all participants is a priority, wearing roller skates or pushing strollers of any kind are not allowed in any of the events for the race.

Packet-up Options:  Packets can be picked up for pre-registrants, this includes the 5K, 10K and Summit 2 Summit Half Marathon and Squirt Race, on Friday, November 13th at Hot Springs Convention Center, Exhibit Hall B (134 Convention Blvd) from Noon - 7:00 pm and on Saturday, Race Day at Hot Springs Convention Center Bank OZK Arena Lobby (398 Convention Blvd) starting at 6:00 am.