Paris Texas Marathon on the NETT Trail

The Paris Texas Marathon is a flat, fast course run on the Northeast Texas Trail (NETT) , a rails-to-trails conversion that offers a mix of asphalt, soft ground, gravel, and bridge crossings. Organizers describe it as "a road race with a trail vibe," and the description fits. The route winds through open countryside, crossing creeks and passing through small communities along the way, with the kind of landscape that makes a long-distance run feel like an exploration rather than a grind.

All distances start and finish at the Eiffel Tower in downtown Paris , the city’s iconic red cowboy-hat-topped replica that has become a symbol of the community’s personality. The Marathon PM event kicks off on Saturday, September 19 at 6:00 PM CDT and runs until 2:00 AM, offering runners the unusual experience of completing a marathon under the stars. Additional distances and events are scheduled throughout the weekend, making it a full running festival for participants of all levels.

Why this race matters

The Paris Texas Marathon is organized by Blaze Trails Running and has grown into a destination event for runners across the region. Paris sits about 90 minutes northeast of Dallas and less than 20 minutes south of the Oklahoma border, making it accessible for a broad audience while remaining firmly rooted in the character of a small Texas town. The race weekend coincides with Judd’s Pay it Forward Picnic at The Rail Yard on the same Saturday, making September 19 one of the busiest community days of the year in Paris.

For residents, the marathon is a point of pride , a sign that the community can host events that draw people from outside the county. For buyers considering property in the area, it’s another data point in the quality-of-life equation: a community that hosts a marathon is a community that values outdoor activity, wellness, and the kind of civic energy that makes a place worth living in.

Getting involved

Registration is available through RunSignUp with an entry fee of $95 for the marathon, with a price increase after July 21. The course is described as fast and runner-friendly, making it a good option for first-time marathoners and experienced runners looking for a PR. Spectators can cheer from the start/finish line at the Eiffel Tower or along the NETT Trail. From 3870 County Road 45080, the drive to downtown Paris is about 20 minutes.