Des Moines Women's Half Marathon, 10K & 5K
Des Moines Women's Half Marathon celebrates female strength with a fast, flat course and community spirit.
Race Date
May 1, 2027
Location
Des Moines, IA
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, May 1, 2027
- Location
- Des Moines, Iowa
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 13.1 Miles, 10K, 5K, 6.2 Miles
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Des Moines Women's Half Marathon, first run in 2017, has become a beloved fixture for runners seeking a supportive and empowering race day. This event celebrates the collective strength of women, offering a vibrant atmosphere that feels like a pre-party with friends, extended over a weekend of running.
Runners can choose from a Saturday evening 5K, or Sunday morning Half Marathon and 10K. The course is noted for being mostly paved and remarkably flat, making it a prime location for setting personal bests. The midwest setting provides a beautiful backdrop for the race, with typical race-day temperatures in the comfortable 47–66°F range.
This race fosters a strong sense of community, with positive vibes and support for runners of all paces. Participants receive quality finisher medals and race clothing, with extra swag available for those tackling multiple events. The event is known for excellent crowd support and a festive atmosphere, culminating in a celebration worthy of the effort.
Race-provided description
The Des Moines Women’s Half Marathon (DSMWHM to our friends) isn’t your average running event. It’s like the hype session + living room dance party before a night out with friends but stretched over some of the most beautiful, and flat, miles in the midwest. This year’s event will again feature a Saturday evening 5K, followed by a Sunday morning Half Marathon & 10K. Join us as we crush some miles, toast some wine, and party like it’s 1999.
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, May 1, 2027
Start Time
8:00 AM
Giveaway
Half Marathon Finisher Windbreaker
Start Location
2400 George Flagg Pkwy, Des Moines, IA, 50321
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Rural
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Quality Score
first year
no finisher counts yet
small race — neutral
needs a few years of results
4 timing sources
no finisher data yet
no winner time yet
typical high 66°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
47°
Afternoon (High)
66°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.1"
Precipitation
15 mph
Wind
63%
Humidity
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Des Moines Women's Half Marathon, 10K & 5K?
The Des Moines Women's Half Marathon, 10K & 5K is held on Saturday, May 1, 2027, starting at 8:00 AM.
Where does the Des Moines Women's Half Marathon, 10K & 5K take place?
It takes place in Des Moines, Iowa.
What distances does the Des Moines Women's Half Marathon, 10K & 5K offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 13.1 Miles, 10K, 5K, 6.2 Miles.
Is the Des Moines Women's Half Marathon, 10K & 5K course flat and good for a PR?
The Des Moines Women's Half Marathon, 10K & 5K is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
Explore More Journeys
Can't make it to Des Moines? Discover other experiences that match your running style.
Search All Races
