7 November Races in the Northwest You Shouldn’t Miss

As the fall colors fade into the crisp air of early winter, November brings one last wave of running excitement across the Northwest.

From underground endurance events in Alberta to family-friendly turkey trots in Idaho and Utah, this month delivers something for every runner, trail veterans, casual joggers, and anyone looking to close the season with a memorable race.

What makes November special is its diversity. You can run through a historic mine in Alberta, race for a good cause in Spokane, sip craft beer in Montana, or lace up for a Thanksgiving morning 5K.

The cool temperatures make for fast times, and the community spirit that defines fall running is at its peak before winter sets in.

1. The Dark: 24 Hours Underground – Crowsnest Pass, Alberta

There are endurance events, and then there’s The Dark, a trail ultra like no other. Held in the historic Bellevue Underground Mine in Alberta’s Crowsnest Pass, this race invites runners to test their mental and physical endurance beneath the earth’s surface.

The 250-meter mine shaft features a 1% grade, creating a 500-meter loop that runners repeat for 6, 12, or 24 hours. With headlamps piercing through darkness, this event is as much a psychological challenge as a physical one.

The constant cool temperature and total lack of natural light force runners to rely on rhythm and resolve rather than scenery or pace cues.

Each lap counts toward your total distance, and the goal is simple: keep going until time runs out or your legs do. Because of space limits, the event caps at 100 participants, ensuring a close-knit, supportive group of ultrarunners.

Beyond the competition, The Dark also carries a historical dimension. A portion of the proceeds goes toward preserving the Bellevue Underground Mine, making this race a tribute to the area’s coal mining past.

2. Run for Beer – Backslope Brewing 5K, Columbia Falls, Montana

If your idea of a good run ends with a craft beer in hand, the Montana Brewery Running Series has you covered. The November edition, hosted at Backslope Brewing in Columbia Falls, combines an easygoing 5K with a full community gathering around local music and freshly poured brews.

This event isn’t about setting records; it’s about celebrating movement, good company, and Montana’s thriving craft beer culture. The course is a casual 5K loop that starts and ends at the brewery, often weaving through scenic local routes that show off Columbia Falls’ rustic charm.

Runners, joggers, and walkers are all welcome. There’s no timing chip or pressure; it’s a social run with a party atmosphere.

At the finish, participants get a token for a beer, plus access to local food trucks and live entertainment. The event series also supports local nonprofits, keeping the focus on community impact as much as fun.

3. Race to Feed Our Veterans 5K – Spokane County, Washington

Every November, Spokane runners unite for a meaningful cause at the Race to Feed Our Veterans 5K, organized by Meals on Wheels Spokane and Fairmount Memorial Association.

Set within the serene grounds of Riverside Memorial Park and Greenwood Memorial Terrace, the course winds through tree-lined hills that blend scenic beauty with remembrance.

The event takes place around Veterans Day and honors both past and present service members, while proceeds help provide meals for senior veterans facing food insecurity.

The event attracts runners and walkers alike, creating a powerful mix of athletic participation and community support. Whether you run for time or for tribute, every step contributes to a real difference.

4. Smithfield Turkey Trot – Smithfield, Utah

Few things say “November” quite like a Turkey Trot, and Smithfield’s annual event is among the most spirited in the region. Taking place on November 22, the Smithfield Turkey Trot offers 1-mile, 5K, and 10K options, making it perfect for families, recreational runners, and competitive athletes alike.

The brisk mountain air and scenic streets of Smithfield set the tone for a festive, small-town atmosphere. Participants enjoy chip timing, age-group awards, raffle prizes, and post-race games, all of which make it one of the most community-driven races in northern Utah.

Every finisher receives a long-sleeve shirt to commemorate the run, and local sponsors ensure plenty of giveaways and snacks at the finish line. For many Utah runners, this race is the unofficial kickoff to the holiday season.

5. Pie Gobbler 5K, 10K & Half Marathon – Spokane, Washington

Runners with a sweet tooth will love the Pie Gobbler, one of Spokane’s most festive November events. Held at Liberty Park, this multi-distance race (1mi, 5K, 10K, 15K, and Half Marathon) gives participants the flexibility to choose their challenge while enjoying the fall scenery of Washington’s Inland Northwest.

The Pie Gobbler is part of the US Road Running Race Series, which means participants can earn points toward national rankings and qualify for special race medals. But even beyond the competitive element, the event maintains a relaxed, welcoming vibe.

Expect crisp air, colorful leaves, and plenty of post-race camaraderie, not to mention the themed medals that celebrate both the Thanksgiving season and your hard work.

6. Huffin’ For The Stuffin’ – Spokane, Washington

A Thanksgiving staple for Spokane residents, Huffin’ For The Stuffin’ takes place on the morning of November 27 and offers both 5K and 10K routes through scenic Riverfront Park.

The event starts and finishes near U District Physical Therapy, and it’s known for its friendly atmosphere and lively turnout.

Participants receive a finisher shirt, snacks, and the option to upgrade to a commemorative hoodie. The race blends fitness with festivity, a fun way to burn calories before the big meal, while connecting with Spokane’s running community.

Because of its central location and inclusive design, Huffin’ For The Stuffin’ regularly attracts both first-time runners and seasoned locals. Many families participate together, making it one of the most social and photogenic events on the November calendar.

Fast or casual, solo or family, this event is all about celebrating health, gratitude, and community before Thanksgiving dinner hits the table.

7. Turkey Day 5K – Boise, Idaho

Boise’s Turkey Day 5K has become one of Idaho’s favorite Thanksgiving Day traditions, and for good reason. This family-friendly race is less about competition and more about community giving.

Proceeds benefit both the Boise Rescue Mission and local Special Olympics teams, organizations that rely heavily on holiday donations to serve those in need. Runners are encouraged to bring canned food or make direct contributions, turning a morning jog into a genuine act of generosity.

The 5K course winds through downtown Boise, offering a festive mix of costumes, strollers, and cheering crowds. It’s a joyful, inclusive event where participation is the priority. For many locals, it marks the official start of the holiday season, a feel-good reminder of how running can unite a city.

The Bottom Line

November in the Northwest may be chilly, but for runners, it’s one of the most rewarding times of year.

From Alberta’s underground endurance challenge to Spokane’s scenic park routes, the City of Trees Marathon returns to Boise on October 11, bringing local runners together for a fast, festive race through downtown and the Greenbelt.

Boise’s heartwarming Turkey Day 5K and other fall events showcase what makes the region’s running community so special: resilience, generosity, and camaraderie.

Whether you’re chasing an ultra-distance goal, jogging for fun, or simply looking to give back, there’s an event here that fits your pace. Lace up, layer up, and make November the month you run for good memories and good causes across the Northwest.