After a stretch of quiet years brought on by COVID and construction work along the beloved Row River Trail, the Cottage Grove Half Marathon and 10K made its long-awaited return last year. Now, Oregon Trail Runs is once again preparing to host runners on May 17, 2026 for a race day on one of the fastest and most scenic paved routes in the region.
The 10K sticks close to town with a straightforward out-and-back route starting and finishing in downtown Cottage Grove. The real star of the show, though, is the half marathon. This point-to-point course begins east of town and follows the Row River Trail as it gently descends toward the finish line downtown.
Along the way, runners pass Dorena Lake, cruise through lush green hills, and enjoy miles of smooth pavement that make it easy to settle into a rhythm. It’s the kind of course that blends speed with scenery—always a winning combination.
I’ve actually logged a few miles on the Row River Trail myself. Without realizing it at the time, I started right at the race’s finish area before heading east along the trail. It didn’t take long to see why this route works so well for a race—it’s smooth, quiet, and surrounded by some seriously beautiful landscape.
For anyone unfamiliar with the trail, the Row River Trail is a 15.6-mile paved National Recreation Trail that follows the former Oregon Pacific & Eastern Railroad line. The path traces the Row River (which rhymes with “cow”) and the shores of Dorena Reservoir, offering wide-open views and a forgiving surface that’s perfect for running.
The region around Cottage Grove is also packed with history. The area is known for its collection of covered bridges and ties to the Bohemia Mining District dating back to the late 1800s. Film buffs might also recognize parts of the landscape—the trail and surrounding area have appeared in movies like Stand By Me, Emperor of the North, and the silent-era classic The General.
Over the years, the Cottage Grove Half has earned a reputation as a favorite destination race for runners willing to make the trip. Unless you’re based near Eugene, it’s not exactly around the corner—but those who have run it before will tell you the journey is worth it. Between the scenic course, smooth logistics, and welcoming small-town atmosphere, it’s always been a memorable event.
If you’ve been looking for a fast half marathon with a great setting, this is one worth putting on the calendar.
