HalfRuns
EMC DAM to DSM

EMC DAM to DSM

Iowa's iconic Dam to DSM half-marathon, a 45-year tradition from Saylorville Dam to downtown Des Moines.

Race Date

Jun 5, 2027

Location

Polk City, IA

Solid Pick59

Quick facts

Date
Saturday, June 5, 2027
Location
Polk City, Iowa
Distance
Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 13.1 Miles
Course
Point to Point
Terrain
Road
USATF certified
Not listed
Finishers on record
12,401

Highlights

Good For

PR FriendlyBeginner FriendlyDestination Worthy

Atmosphere

Party FinishSpectator SupportGreat Post RaceGreat Swag

Course

Fast FlatScenic Route

The Experience

The EMC Dam to DSM half-marathon is a storied Iowa running tradition, first run in 1980 and now in its 45th year. This point-to-point course begins with the striking vista of Saylorville Dam, offering a clear view of the downtown Des Moines skyline, a distance runners will conquer.

The race winds south through Polk County's rural beauty before entering the urban landscape of Des Moines. Runners will cross I-35, pass through Birdland Park along the Des Moines River, and finally enter the vibrant downtown area, crossing the river to a celebratory finish at Cowles Commons.

With a median field size of around 3,255 finishers and a growing trend, the event draws participants from across the country. Approximately 31% of runners return year after year, testament to its enduring appeal. The typical winning time hovers around 68 minutes, indicating a competitive yet welcoming atmosphere for all levels of runners.

Race-provided description

Iowa's Greatest Running Tradition. Since 1980, more than 140,000 runners have made running from the quiet and calm of the Saylorville Dam to the heat and high-rises of downtown Des Moines one of the greatest running traditions in central Iowa. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a first-timer, or a diehard this iconic running event is for you.  SAYLORVILLE DAM There is something unparalleled about standing on top of the Saylorville Dam and looking out at the high-rise buildings on the horizon knowing that you will conquer the distance in between. After crossing the dam athletes will travel south through the fields and rural beauty of Polk County.   DOWNTOWN DES MOINES Runners traverse I-35 at the Morningstar bridge and continue into the Northside Neighborhoods, along the Des Moines River at Birdland Park and enter into Downtown Des Moines.  Athletes will finish their half-marathon journey by crossing the Des Moines River and passing the World Food Prize Building. With the finish line behind you, there's a huge party awaiting you at Cowles Commons across from The Des Moines Civic Center.

Logistics

Race Day

Saturday, June 5, 2027

Start Time

7:00 AM

Giveaway

Official Race T-Shirt

Start Location

8250 Horseshoe Road, Polk City, IA, 50309

Directions

Course Info

Course Type

Point to Point

Terrain

road

Scenery

Rural, Urban

Surface

Paved

Difficulty

Ultra-Flat

Net Drop/km

0 m (Flat)

Separation

0.0%

Also Offers

13.1 Miles

Quality Score

Solid Pick59
Methodology
Heritage8/20

4 years running

Size15/15

~3,255 finishers a year

Momentum5/5

growing or steady

Loyalty20/20

31% returning runners

Course & details6/15

6 timing sources · 8 photos

National draw0/10

runners from 1 state

Front-pack speed5/5

winner 1:08:43

Weather0/10

typical high 76°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (Low)

55°

Afternoon (High)

76°

Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively

0.1"

Precipitation

13 mph

Wind

64%

Humidity

Historical Finish Times

How 12,401 finishers actually crossed the line across 4 years.

Most recent

2025

Total finishers

12,401

Median time

2:09:16

Latest turnout

3,892

States

41

10%
25%
75%
90%
1:05p50 median ≈ 2:104:20

Turnout by year

20222025

'22'23'24'25
See full results

Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.

Race Photos

Frequently asked

When is the EMC DAM to DSM?

The EMC DAM to DSM is held on Saturday, June 5, 2027, starting at 7:00 AM.

Where does the EMC DAM to DSM take place?

It takes place in Polk City, Iowa.

What distances does the EMC DAM to DSM offer?

The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 13.1 Miles.

Is the EMC DAM to DSM course flat and good for a PR?

The EMC DAM to DSM is a ultra-flat, point to point course.

How many people run the EMC DAM to DSM?

HalfRuns has finish records for 12,401 runners who have completed the EMC DAM to DSM.

HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.

Explore More Journeys

Can't make it to Polk City? Discover other experiences that match your running style.

Search All Races