
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
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
Atmosphere
Course
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
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
Quality Score
Solid Pick594 years running
~3,255 finishers a year
growing or steady
31% returning runners
6 timing sources · 8 photos
runners from 1 state
winner 1:08:43
typical high 76°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (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
Turnout by year
2022–2025
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.
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