While some are eager to put away the ice scrapers and get out the lawn mowers, runners in Texas are lacing up their shoes. They hope to get in a few more races before summer turns up the heat.

Springtime in Texas has a lot to offer, and some key things to avoid that can cause some chaos, like Austin’s SXSW. Running the races of spring top our to-do list as summer looms in the distance. There are countless races all across our great state, but we’ve highlighted the best 5K, 10K, and marathon runs to prepare for in Texas this spring.

Zooma Lost Pines Half Marathon

March 8th to March 10th (5K, 10K, Half Marathon)

This event, exclusively for women, takes place in Bastrop in the beautiful rolling hills of the Hill Country. The pre- and post-race events are added perks. We’re talking about massages, mimosas, music and yoga. Perfect for a getaway weekend with the girlfriends.

The San Felipe Shootout 

March 23rd (5K, 10K, Half Marathon)

This race is perfect for trail runners, and it’s easy on the knees. It takes place on the soft clay and pine needle grounds of Stephen F. Austin State Park in San Felipe. There are 5K, 10K and half marathon options, and very little elevation change. A great race for the whole family.

Headwaters of the Frio Marathon 

April 5th (10K, Half Marathon, Marathon)

This challenging event takes place across the rugged terrain of a breathtakingly beautiful 7,000-acre ranch in Leakey. All proceeds benefit the Hill Country Youth Ranch and the Big Springs Ranch for Children, which work with child abuse survivors. Start getting in shape now, since it’ll be here before you know it!

Cap 10K Austin

April 7th (10K)

The Capitol 10,000 is the largest 10K in Texas and the sixth largest in the nation. More than 23,000 runners will take to the streets in downtown Austin. It begins at 7:30 a.m. at the Ann Richards Bridge on South Congress and winds up at Vic Mathias Shores.

The Color Run 

April 27th (5K)

Touted as the “Happiest 5K on the Planet,” in this unique race runners are drenched in different colors at each kilometer. The race concludes with a massive dance party with music, dancing, and more color throws. Since this is not a competitive event, the kids and slower runners will have a blast. (Better yet, it gets the kids away from their screens and learning the benefits of being outdoors.) This 5K party begins at the Travis County Expo Center.

Beach to Bay Relay Marathon 

May 18th (Marathon)

The starting pistol goes off on the beach of North Padre Island. The race traverses Corpus Christi Naval Air Station and ends along Shoreline Drive at McCaughan Park. It’s a six-leg event that can be completed by solo runners or in teams of six or three. Held on Armed Forces Day, this marathon honors the men and women who serve in the U.S. Military.

Texas Trails Running Festival 

June 1st (5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Marathon)

This is one of the last spring race events in Texas and is definitely one of the best. The Texas Trails Running Festival offers something for everyone, not only in terms of race length but also in the many extracurricular events. The race at Krause Springs in Spicewood features a swimming hole, live music, and prize giveaways. You’ll also find outdoor movies, food trucks, games, a family and kid zone, and trail running all day and night. It all takes place on a private ranch.

Cover photo courtesy The Color Run

Laura Dexter is an avid hiker and runner who travels around the country, taking part in marathons and 10Ks throughout the year. When she’s not writing about her races or travels, you’ll find her hiking in Colorado with her husband and three children.