Sunday, September 21, 2025
The Palisades Half returned this year, with the addition of our inaugural 8K mixed-terrain run! Half marathoners sped through a stunning 13.1 mile paved run with over 1000 ft of elevation change along the Palisades ridge, and trail runners experienced the rugged cliffs with a shorter 8 kilometer mixed-terrain run along the shore trail, the Long Path, and the rocky cliff climbs in between.
The race was one of the Conservancy's biggest events yet with a combined turnout of approximately 1,000 people including runners, spectators, and volunteers. Our runners ranged from 7 to 85 years old, from 15 states, and four countries including Japan, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic.
After the race, runners and their supporters enjoyed the first beautiful day of Fall at the Ross Dock Finish Festival, enjoying bagels and fruit from In Thyme Catering, sandwiches from Jersey Mikes, chilled beers from Athletic Brewing Co., and delightful music from Fat Boi's Brass Band.
Photos: Patrick Leiphart, Sawyer Alcazar-Hagen
All proceeds benefit the Palisades Parks Conservancy and the network of 29 parks and historic sites stretching from the GW Bridge to the Shawangunk Ridge and the Catskill Mountains.
Reach out to race@palisadesparks.org with any questions.
2025 COURSE MAPS
COURSE ADVISORIES
8K TRAIL RUN
The 8K Trail Run is new this year, and we are excited for you to pilot this beautiful course! Keep in mind that this is a mixed-terrain course and there are sections that are moderately technical. Runners will encounter steep and uneven stone steps, rocky switchbacks, stretches of pavement, grass, gravel, and pathways alongside steep cliff drop-offs. Certain sections will require slowing down to a walk or hike and, at times, moving in single file for safety. These areas will be clearly marked with signage, and volunteers will be present to direct runners along the way.
HALF MARATHON
In summer of 2024, a severe storm caused road damage along the Palisades Half Marathon route. Road conditions have improved since last year, but there are still some remaining sections of uneven pavement with exposed bricks, bumps, and depressions. The road conditions last for half a mile between mile markers 2 and 3, and between mile markers 11 and 12. Take note of caution signs and volunteer warnings as you approach and traverse the rough road section.
We appreciate your understanding of imperfect route conditions! The Palisades Half + 8K is a nonprofit event that supports the Palisades Parks System of 29 Hudson Valley parks, many of which are increasingly vulnerable to severe weather events. Thank you for supporting the parks!
SPONSORED BY
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All registration fees for this race are put directly toward the Palisades Parks Conservancy nonprofit's work of protecting, preserving, and enhancing the Palisades Parks. At this time, we cannot offer refunds or deferrals. We understand that injuries, emergencies, and obligations can come up. If you cannot attend the race, you may reach out to race@palisadesparks.org to transfer your registration to another person who can run in your place.
The event will go on rain or shine, in the event of extreme inclement weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances, the race will be canceled and all registration fees will be converted to donations to support the Palisades Parks preservation work. We appreciate your understanding and your contributions to our small organization!
Please get in touch if you are interested in sponsorship opportunities.