9 Races to Ring in the New Year

As Denver's oldest New Year's Eve event, the Resolution 5K is the perfect opportunity to start your year out the right way. The course winds through Denver's legendary Washington Park before runners dig into a pasta party from Pasta Jay's. The first 100 finishers are timed and scored, but everyone gets a commemorative T-shirt and entry to the post-race party. The race starts at 5 p.m., so you still have time to hit those parties before midnight.

Want to sleep in on New Year's Day? No problem. Don't like running at night? That's also no problem. This Lincoln, Nebraska-based race has options for everyone, with not one, but two races for those wanting to start their year on the right foot. For those wanting the unforgettable experience of running late at night, there's a 10 p.m. race on New Year's Eve. And for those ready to start early on New Year's Day, the 10:30 a.m. race on Jan. 1 is right up your alley. Both days offer a 5K and 10K option, and registration fees include a T-shirt and post-race beer and food. Runners who partake in both events receive a commemorative quarter-zip pullover to wear all through the year.

This trail run at Conway Robinson State Forest is the perfect beginning to a brand new year of healthy, active living. With a 5K, 10K and 1-mile option, there's something for the whole family to get a head start on their resolutions.

Go off-road on the first day of 2017 at this 17K and 5-mile trail race on the northern edge of South Carolina. The technical, looped course takes runners over roots, rocks and stream crossings—and provides a good chance to run through the snow. The 5-mile course is recommended for first-time trail racers, while the 17K provides a tougher challenge for the more experienced runner. With a later start time of 10 a.m., you can sleep off a bit of that New Year's Eve partying.

Participants of all levels are welcome at this 10K and 5K race, featuring stunning views of trails and water vistas along the course. Post-race activities include a prize drawing, award ceremony and brunch prepared by Rio Grill and Kiwanis of Monterey. Each year, this New Year's Day event benefits a different local non-profit and this year, event organizers have chosen Coastal Kids Home Care as their charity partner.

Want to mix up your running routine? Why not jump on the bike in the middle of a long run? This duathlon (run-bike-run) event features a 6.5-mile bike flanked on both sides by a 2-mile run. The course is inside Folsom Lake State Park on a mix of granite paths, single-track trails and pavement. Rather stick to running? The 5K course offers views of wildflowers and Folsom Lake as you cruise through a Northern California oak forest.

What better way to start a year of healthy living than to commit to an ultra run? And the location doesn't hurt either. You'll run among the breathtaking sights of the Kualoa Ranch, seen most famously in the movie "Jurassic Park." Not ready to commit to a full ultra? Enter with a team of two to six runners for a tag team effort of the beautiful Kaa'awa Valley.

Start out your year by both feeling good and doing good. Held at Atlanta's Piedmont Park, proceeds of this 5K run and walk will go to the Charity Benevolent Fund to Stamp Out Poverty in Georgia's capital city. The organization provides hygiene kits and clothing to homeless and needy individuals in the area.