The Driftless Half Marathon
The Driftless Half Marathon offers a scenic tour of Iowa's Great River National Scenic Byway during peak fall foliage.
Race Date
Oct 10, 2026
Location
Lansing, IA
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, October 10, 2026
- Location
- Lansing, Iowa
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 13.1 Miles, 3.1 Miles, 6.6 Miles
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 745
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Driftless Half Marathon winds through the stunning landscapes of northeast Iowa, following the Great River National Scenic Byway. A short detour onto Red Oak Road provides glimpses of the majestic Mississippi River, making this race a visual treat, especially during Iowa's vibrant fall leaf season.
This event, first run in 2020 and now in its fifth edition, typically sees around 105 finishers, with about 20% returning in subsequent years. Runners come from approximately 8 states, drawn by the promise of a scenic and unique half marathon experience.
The course is predominantly flat, offering a forgiving path for runners. Participants can expect a comfortable race-day temperature averaging between 48–64°F, ideal for enjoying the autumnal beauty of the region. The race concludes with a sense of accomplishment, having navigated a course celebrated for its natural splendor.
Race-provided description
Run the Great River National Scenic Byway of northeast Iowa. Taking a detour onto Red Oak Road, participants will be able to see the majestic Mississippi River! This event takes place during Iowa's peak leaf season. Come see why this event is one of the most scenic half marathons you'll ever do!
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, October 10, 2026
Start Time
7:30 AM
Giveaway
Long sleeve tech shirt
Start Location
P.O. Box 193, Lansing, IA, 52151
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Lake River, Rural
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Quality Score
Standout696 years running
~113 finishers a year
growing or steady
22% returning runners
5 timing sources · 8 photos
runners from 7 states
winner 1:23:57
typical high 64°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
48°
Afternoon (High)
64°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.1"
Precipitation
11 mph
Wind
68%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 745 finishers actually crossed the line across 6 years.
Most recent
2026
Total finishers
745
Median time
2:09:50
Latest turnout
132
States
19
Turnout by year
2018–2026
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the The Driftless Half Marathon?
The The Driftless Half Marathon was held on Saturday, October 10, 2026, starting at 7:30 AM.
Where does the The Driftless Half Marathon take place?
It takes place in Lansing, Iowa.
What distances does the The Driftless Half Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 13.1 Miles, 3.1 Miles, 6.6 Miles.
Is the The Driftless Half Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The The Driftless Half Marathon is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
How many people run the The Driftless Half Marathon?
HalfRuns has finish records for 745 runners who have completed the The Driftless Half Marathon.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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