Summary
The Run the Line Half Marathon in Texarkana is one of the few races in the world where runners cross a state line mid-race. Starting in Texas and finishing in downtown Arkansas, this USATF-certified event combines scenic park trails, city streets, and the unique thrill of covering two states in one 13.1-mile loop. With relay team options, live music, cheering crowds, and a lively post-race celebration, it’s a bucket-list race that attracts runners from across the region and beyond.
How many half marathons let you cross a state line mid-race? At the Run the Line Half Marathon in Texarkana, you don’t just pass a mile marker—you literally pass from Texas into Arkansas and back again before finishing in the heart of downtown. This one-of-a-kind 13.1 mile race is your chance to run in both Texas and Arkansas during the same event, making it one of the most unique half marathons in the world.
Starting on Broad Street in Texarkana, Texas, the USATF-certified course quickly heads into Arkansas, winds through city streets and scenic park trails, crosses the state line, and then brings every runner home to the Arkansas side of downtown. The finish line celebration takes place on Wood Street in front of Hopkins Ice House—just blocks away from where it all began.
Why Runners Love This Race
Two States, One Race: Few half marathons in the world give you the chance to cross a state line mid-race, but in Texarkana you’ll run both Texas and Arkansas in a single morning.
Downtown Energy: The streets of Texarkana come alive with cheering crowds, music, and volunteers as the course winds through neighborhoods, parks, and the heart of our historic downtown.
Certified & Competitive: With a USATF certification and inclusion in the Arkansas Grand Prix Series and Natural State Running Series, Run the Line draws seasoned athletes alongside enthusiastic first-timers.
Options for Everyone: Run solo, take on half the course with a partner in the 2-person relay, or split the miles with friends in a 4-person relay. Walkers are welcome, too.
Finisher Swag & After-Party: Every finisher earns a medal and a chance to refuel with burgers and drinks at the post-race celebration.
A Course with Personality
The route features wide asphalt trails through Spring Lake Park and Nix Creek Trail, stretches of historic city streets, and even a portion run directly on the Arkansas–Texas state line. Expect long straightaways, gentle inclines, water stops stocked and staffed by local volunteers, and live music along the way to keep you moving.
2026 Race Weekend Details
Date: Sunday, February 16, 2026
Start Time: 7:30 a.m. sharp (waves based on pace)
Start Location: Broad Street & Texas Blvd intersection
Finish Line: Downtown Texarkana, Arkansas (3rd & Wood Streets)
Packet Pickup: Racquet & Jog, Richmond Road, Texarkana
Registration: Online only at RunSignUp.com
Be Part of Something Bigger
Now in its 16th year, the Run the Line Half Marathon has grown into one of the premier running events in Arkansas. With more than 500 runners and walkers, dozens of relay teams, and over 100 volunteers, it’s not just a race—it’s a community tradition.
Whether you’re chasing a personal record, checking Arkansas off your 50 States running list, or simply here for the unforgettable bragging rights of running across two states in one race, Run the Line is an experience every runner should add to their calendar.
Plan Your Visit
If you’re traveling in for race weekend, downtown Texarkana on the Arkansas side is where the celebration happens. Stay at host hotels offering early breakfasts and late checkout, explore local restaurants, and soak up the unique energy of a city built on the state line. Explore more things to do in Texarkana, Arkansas.
