Memorable Runs of 2024
Submitted by the Great Runs Community
There are 80 slides, separated into two sections:
1. Places
2. Achievements
Producer: Kelsey Perrett, Editor-at-Large, Great Runs
Your ‘Run of the Year’ Stories and Photos 2024
Thank you for your contributions to the 2024 ‘Run of the Year’! What a wonderful collection of photos and inspirational stories. Below is a slideshow divided into two sections:
- Special places you’ve run, featuring runs in gorgeous scenery from around the world.
- Achievements, with great photos of the many road races and other special events enjoyed by the GR community.
Mouse over the photo to show the side arrows which allow you to advance forward or backward. Best viewed on a PC! On mobile, they can be viewed in portrait or landscape mode.
Memorable Runs of 2024
Places
Places
Black Balsam & Tennent Mountain, NC
Black Balsam & Tennent Mountain, NC
The views from Black Balsam and Tennent Mountain via the Art Loeb and Graveyard Ridge trails. —Bruce
Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
I've been an avid distance runner since 2008, running 14 marathons and numerous other races. When we're on vacation, I love to explore cities and sights on my runs. While in Bryce Canyon National Park in July of 2024, I was able to run the Rim Trail at sunrise. It was tough because I'm accustomed to the VERY flat Lakefront Trail in Chicago! But, taking in the sun rising over the hoodoos was worth the elevation gain. It was such a special run!
—Ashley N.
Neptune Beach, FL
Neptune Beach, FL
The beaches here feature hard packed sand that make running a pleasure. There on this day I had the whole beach to myself, from Jacksonville Beach through Neptune Beach and up to Atlantic Beach. I took this photo at one of the dune crossings at Neptune Beach.
—Karen B.
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Beautiful sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean.
—Joe L.
Stoos, Switzerland
Stoos, Switzerland
I had heard rumors of this amazing hike near the village of Stoos that straddled a ridge line with awesome views of Lake Lucerne. Man did it ever live up to its reputation! The loop was epic!
—Henry H.
Hakoya Island, Tromso, Norway
Hakoya Island, Tromso, Norway
Stunning unforgettable scenery of Hakoya Island, a community of about 300, 20-minute drive from the town center of Tromso, Norway. An out and back route that starts from Eidkjosen and ends at the Tirpitz Monument on the island, 7.2 miles.
—Jim L.
Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como, Italy
I mean, look at that view! A 7-mile loop starting in Tremezzo up cliffs and through pastures, along lakeside parks and towns and the lake itself. Choosing only one photo was so hard.
—Tess
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh, Scotland
An early morning long run around Arthur's seat before a long work day while traveling. In the heart of the city, but already in Scottish hills. What a great way to start the day!
—Sebastien M.
Peets Hill, Bozeman, MT
Peets Hill, Bozeman, MT
Beautiful sunrise on a cool summer morning, my first time in Bozeman. I was alone on top of the hills until the sun started to come up, then more and more runners were up there, enjoying the beauty, color, and fresh, clear air.
—David F.
San Francisco, CA
San Francisco, CA
I lived in San Francisco area when I was younger, but had not been back in 30 years. It was great to be able to run across the Golden Gate Bridge.
—Kevin D.
Griffith Park, Los Angeles, CA
Griffith Park, Los Angeles, CA
I learned of this route through greatruns.com. I loved the trails and views for a Sunday morning long run in September. This photo showcases some amazing views (LA downtown skyline and Griffith Observatory).
—Paul T.
Pohang, South Korea
Pohang, South Korea
I had little expectations of running in Pahong and had no clue where I was going. I stumbled upon the local fish auction and was welcomed by the local fishermen and fish traders. Before I knew it I was given a fish.
—Lena A., Founder, Go! Running Tours
Djurgården, Stockholm, Sweden
Djurgården, Stockholm, Sweden
Beautiful view of the sea and city of Stockholm, historic sites and run with partly gravel surface and relatively flat.
—Pernille S.
Elgin, IL
Elgin, IL
Xmas day on snowy trails 0 degrees on a blue sky day.
—Hamish M.
Venice, Italy
Venice, Italy
Just a very quick trip with work but had not been there for 40 years.
—Marlie
Belfast, Northern Ireland
Belfast, Northern Ireland
Running through BELFAST! Over the Queens Bridge to the Titanic Museum! EPIC 😁🏃♀️💞😁
—Rebecca S.
Istanbul
Istanbul
An early morning run around the historical peninsula of Istanbul. The sights and sounds of Turkiye early in the morning to running through the Spice Bazaar before the crowds arrived. A very memorable and soul satisfying run.
—Juanne V.
The Tanzania Savanna at Enashiva
The Tanzania Savanna at Enashiva
Enashiva means "happiness" in Masai, and we we truly happy to get an early morning run in on the savanna with the wildebeest, zebra and impala. We even spotted a lone elephant in the far distance. Many thanks Thomson Safari and our guard Harrison! Yes, he carried a rifle, just in case...
—Scott, Kathy, Harrison, and Mark
Svalbard (Spitsbergen), Greenland
Svalbard (Spitsbergen), Norway
Running a marathon in the northernmost town in the world, with reindeer and polar bear guards on the course, and the friendliest people.
—Tony G.
Nymphenburg Palace, Munich, Germany
Nymphenburg Palace, Munich, Germany
A 24km run through Munich led me to the stunning Nymphenburg Palace at sunrise, turning an unplanned detour into an unforgettable moment. What started as a routine half-marathon training run turned into an unexpected adventure. With gates closed at Hartmannshofer Tor, my route in this unfamiliar city had to change. I stumbled upon Nymphenburg Palace, where the sunrise painted the canal in golden hues—the sight energised me more than any pre-run coffee ever could.
The crisp autumn air, the stillness of the park, and that view… reminded me why I run: for moments like these that leave you feeling alive and connected to the world around you. 🌍💫
24km later, this run wasn't just about training but discovery and joy. 🏃♂️✨
—Paul R.
Feldkirch, Austria
Feldkirch, Austria
Three countries in one run! Austria, Lichtenstein and Switzerland!
—Joylin N.
The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Scotland
The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Scotland
My first run in a foreign country.
—Cynthia
Fingal Bay, Port Stephens, Australia
Fingal Bay, Port Stephens, Australia
This was the hardest 6K Trail I've ever done. Either Steep up hill or down hill on sand, over rocks, through the ocean.
—Michelle
Krakow, Poland
Krakow, Poland
A midnight run through one of the oldest cities in European history. Through cobblestone streets and a spectacular view of a castle that was built (started to be built) in 900’s.
—Tedd B.
Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi, Vietnam
It was my first run in Hanoi and I was guided by my colleague Minh who shared all the history, fun stories and anecdotes of Hanoi. Incredible experience.
—Lena A., Founder, Go! Running Tours
Poipu, Kauai
Poipu, Kauai
It was a trip to visit my first grandchild! We always stay in Poipu when we visit family. This time I made sure to look up routes via greatruns.com and I found this one right alongside of the ocean.
—Mike F.
Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City, Mexico
A memorable run with all the vibe of the day of dead, a super special festivity in Mexico City. The old downtown is decorated with pieces of art related to the season. It is simply gorgeous, especially at night.
—Citlaltzin S.
Chamonix, France
Chamonix, France
Whether or not I’m physically in the US, I like observing Independence Day by going for a scenic run, pursuing life/liberty/happiness through time outdoors. Trail-running with a view of Mont Blanc was challenging, stunning, and a gift.
—Sarah W.
Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como, Italy
Spectacular Climb up to the top of Como via Zezio
—Joylin N.
Black Loop, Rotorua, New Zealand
Black Loop, Rotorua, New Zealand
So many beautiful and awesome trails.
—Jim T.
Great Ocean Way, Esperance, Western Australia
Great Ocean Way, Esperance, Western Australia
Such picturesque scenery along the way. The coastline was some of the most beautiful in the world.
—Bree H.
Borjomi, Georgia
Sydney, Australia
Sydney, Australia
I had the privilege of running through and showing off my home city with an amazing couple from the US on their honeymoon!
—Jamie L.
Iceland
Iceland
The place, the wind, the cold, the feeling running far from my routine.
—Pablo M.
Nordkap, Norway
Nordkap, Norway
This was my heartbeat moment 2024 despite all the races I did. Running in the fresh snow at sunset around the Nordkap in Norway. All alone and that light was so overwhelming.
—Dani
Peaks Island, Portland, ME
Peaks Island, Portland, ME
I got a new running buddy this year, so most of my travels have been close to home. However, we've had many beautiful morning runs around the coast of Peaks Island in the off-season. There's nothing like running with a young border collie to make you feel slow!
—Kelsey P., Great Runs
Paris, France
Paris, France
I was running along the Seine in Paris and another runner yelled out “New York, New York!” and said he recognized me from running along the Hudson River Park. He was French but lives in NY. He remembered I used to run with a baby years ago. It was touching and made it feel like such a small global running community.
—Kassie H.
Fiesole to Florence Trail Run
Fiesole to Florence Trail Run
I have this tour in my catalog (Go! Running Tours Florence) since some years but the run with Richard was special. He's an enthusiast of trail running and was very happy of discovering the carvers path. Richard was so friendly and joyfull that I keep such a nice memory of this run. Last but not least Richard has a great senso of humor, because the title of his review was "Lapo the great!" and who knows me knows that this is hilarious.
—Lapo
Cap Fréhel, Brittany
Cap Fréhel, Brittany
Gorgeous run atop coastal bluff. One of many memorable hike, bike rides,
and runs on a two-week trip in Brittany and Normandy.
—Mark L. (Chief Running Officer at GreatRuns)
Achievements
Achievements
West Byfleet to London
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen, Denmark
I have been raising funds for the Childhood Cancer and Leukemia Group and it was my first of six races I have to do in the Europe Super Halfs.
—Miguel G.
Hennepin 100: Sterling to Colona, IL
Hennepin 100: Sterling to Colona, IL
The joy of the journey to the 100 mile finish line. —Laura R.
Picton, Ontario, Canada
Picton, Ontario, Canada
My partner and I hadn't done a half marathon in more than 15 years and we both placed 1st in our age categories. Our friend placed 2nd in his age category. We've registered for two more in 2025.
—Lydia B.
Abu Dhabi
Inverness, FL
Inverness, FL
This was taken February 2024, after finishing my first 6 hour timed race. It took a lot for this 66 year old guy to even get to the starting line! Both physically and emotionally. A big victory for me! 🙂
—Sandy
Athens Marathon
Athens Marathon
Was my first marathon after 5 years of running and at the same place where I was overweight!
—James
Slovenia, Julian Alps
Dubai
Urataka (Aruba) Run
Rehoboth Beach, DE
Rehoboth Beach, DE
The sun was rising and it was a nice crisp morning. The run was part of a triathlon.
—Kristan T.
Florence, Italy
Florence, Italy
I did the Mensola Parkrun on my 70th birthday, and they sang happy birthday in Italian! It was their Halloween run and there were people from around the world.
—Jo-Anne B.
Moab, UT
Moab, UT
Behind the Rocks Road 15K. This was a very special run for me 🎈 A 60th birthday 15K trail run with my daughter in Moab! Fantastic memories! Love the red dirt, arches and fantastic people!
—Lorrie V.
Joshua Tree National Park Traverse
Joshua Tree National Park Traverse
Finishing up 37 miles across Joshua Tree National Park near Palm Springs, CA. First ultra run after tearing both quadriceps in June of 2023. This run took place on June 7, 2024.
—Tim N.
New York
New York
It was finishing the 6 stars in New York (and was also announced same day that the 7th star was officially received from the Age Grade Championships run in Sydney in September).
—David H.
Lyon to St. Etienne Return
Lyon to St. Etienne Return
The 70th Anniversary event was run on a beautiful bright weekend. The route out from Lyon in the day through the hills west of the city was in bright clear sunny weather with spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and the Alps in the distance. The return leg from St. Etienne was atmospheric at night with thousands of head torches lighting the way. As the runners descends to Lyon they were greeted with a beautiful sunrise and a warm welcome from supporters.
—Martin I.
Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee, WI
Because was my 13.1 miles run after 8 years that did no run those miles only 10 kilometers (6.21 miles).
—Alberto M.
GBK stadium, Jakarta, Indonesia
GBK stadium, Jakarta, Indonesia
The best race event that I've done in 2024
—Mas W.
Tulsa, OK
Tulsa, OK
My daughter and I ran our first marathon together. The picture is us right before the finish line with my brother on the sidelines cheering us on.
—Robbie W.
Education City, Doha, Qatar
Dwarsvlei Farm, Middelburg, Karoo, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Dwarsvlei Farm, Middelburg, Karoo, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Run the Karoo was our first night race as a couple in the magnificent Karoo. First run with headlamps which resulted in a mouth full of insects. Very special.
—Neil F.
Livermore, CA
Livermore, CA
Not only my first half marathon ever but also the first run my husband was there to cheer me on at the start AND at the finish line. The views along the wine vineyards and rural trail was absolutely gorgeous.
—Mari
Medford, OR
Medford, OR
My favorite run every year is the Pear Blossom, a true 10-mile run each April. In 2024 it was special because I'd just returned from Ireland and wore not only an Ireland jersey, but also green Brooks "Ghost" shoes with the Shamrock design purchased just days before in Dublin.
—Phil H.
Hof Carmel, Israel
Greenfield, MN
Greenfield, MN
Chilly Morning Race Around Lake Rebecca, MN: A 12 km Challenge” In the early morning hours of April 20, 2024, Minneapolis was blanketed in light snow. By race time, the skies had cleared, and the freezing 31°F (-0.6°C) air made the 12 km journey around Lake Rebecca both challenging and invigorating. It all ended with a race medal in hand and a silly smile on my face—completely worth it!
—Isi
Tempe, AZ
Tempe, AZ
The last run of 2024 and the first run of 2025 at Startline Racing’s annual Midnight Madness Run!
—Rick and Mary G.
Leadville, CO
Leadville, CO
I read Born to Run in 2000 at 285 pounds and at the start of my fitness journey. Entered the lottery for 2024 and got in. Ended up running and completing the race in 29 hours.
—Chris B.
Boston, MA
Boston, MA
It was my first time running the Boston Marathon, after 12 years trying to qualify! This was around Mile 22. It was hot and I was suffering, and then I saw some friends who gave me life!
—Tia P.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles, CA
This was a Halloween film location run in Pasadena, where the original "Halloween" was made. We stopped at 7 different locations in a 5k distance. Lots of fun photo ops and local love as a group of over 50 ran through the streets of Pasadena. The run club does this often and I highly suggest them!
—Sean
The Big Run, London 2024
The Big Run, London 2024
It was a fabulous day, very hot and running was challenging but we did it! So happy with my wonderful friends Carolyn and Genna.
—Blanche M.
Vienna, Austria
Wolfs Fang, Antarctica
Wolfs Fang, Antarctica
I got to realize my dream of running 7 marathons in 7 continents in 7 days during the Great World Race. At the 1st one in Wolfs Fang, Antarctica (you can see the Wolf’s Fang mountain in the back).
—Angie W.
Brooklyn, NY
Brooklyn, NY
Racing with friends from school and childhood. Having fun all day long and getting a personal best.
—Krist N.
Rockfest Half Marathon, Hampton Beach, NH
Rockfest Half Marathon, Hampton Beach, NH
*My first half marathon since before the pandemic
*Beautiful course, right along the Atlantic coastline
*Perfect fall weather and big crowd of runners
*Had a great run physically and mentally and beat my target time easily.
—Andy E., pictured with Mark Lowenstein, Great Runs
St. George, UT
St. George, UT
The beautiful red rock, incredible view, and the giant American Flag hanging between the canyons.
—Jill M.
City2Surf, Sydney, Australia
City2Surf, Sydney, Australia
Running with the kids that train with me 😍
—Charlie C.
Ofakim, Israel
Harpoon 5 Miler, Boston, MA
Harpoon 5 Miler, Boston, MA
My little sister in the background celebrating me finishing the finish line of my first race.
—Danielle E.
Lugano
Lugano
The 10km race I participated in during 2024 in Lugano was particularly memorable due to the stunning landscapes along the course. The route, certified and homologated by Swiss Athletics, offered a fast and straightforward experience, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned runners seeking a new personal best.  Running through Lugano’s picturesque streets, I was captivated by the blend of urban charm and natural beauty. The course took us along the serene lakeside, providing breathtaking views of Lake Lugano, and through the vibrant city center, where the energy of the cheering crowds was palpable. The combination of challenging inclines and flat stretches, all set against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains, made the race not only a test of endurance but also a feast for the eyes. The event was well-organized, with clear signage and ample support stations, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish. The camaraderie among participants and the enthusiastic support from spectators added to the overall enjoyment, making this 10km race in Lugano an unforgettable experience.
—Eugenio
Hello Great Runs Users! A few quick notes:
- ROUTE MAPS are now on the route page! Scroll down to below the route description to see the route map. More details on new layout HERE
- Sign up for our free newsletter for the latest additions to GR, fun compilations, running tips, & more!
- If you prefer an ad-free experience, we have modest monthly & annual subscription options. SIGN UP
- If you’ve signed up for ad-free, you need to be signed into your account.