Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K
This Michigan half marathon winds through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, offering stunning fall colors and challenging hills.
Race Date
Oct 3, 2026
Location
Empire, MI
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, October 3, 2026
- Location
- Empire, Michigan
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 26.2 Miles, 3.1 Miles
- Course
- Out & Back
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Yes
- Finishers on record
- 5,032
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Sleeping Bear Half Marathon, held in the heart of Michigan's Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, offers a compelling blend of natural beauty and athletic challenge. Runners traverse the scenic Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, a paved path renowned for its breathtaking views of the dunes and the Manitou Islands. The course, while celebrated for its picturesque fall foliage, is also known for its demanding hills, with some gradients reaching 10-11%, providing a true test for participants.
With around 905 finishers typically, this event offers a more intimate experience than larger races, fostering a laid-back atmosphere. Runners from approximately 27 states have recently been drawn to this destination, highlighting its appeal for those seeking a unique race weekend. The event, first run in 2012 and now in its 13th edition, provides a memorable experience, culminating in a finish that allows participants to appreciate the beauty of Lake Michigan.
Race-provided description
Join us for a Scenic Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K Run/Walk in the Heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore! All races finish in Empire, MI. The Marathon and Half Marathon start at the Dune Climb, while the 5K begins at Empire Beach. Marathon Course: This out-and-back route takes runners past the iconic Dune Climb, Little Glen Lake, and through the charming village of Glen Arbor. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Manitou Islands and Sleeping Bear Dunes throughout the course. Half Marathon Course: Experience challenging hills and stunning scenery along the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail. 5K Course: A fun out-and-back route that finishes at the beautiful shores of Empire Beach. Held at the peak of fall color season, this tree-lined course offers a memorable experience for both runners and spectators alike. Come see why Good Morning America calls this area one of the most beautiful in the United States!
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, October 3, 2026
Start Time
8:00 AM
Giveaway
Unisex Lightweight Tri-Blend Hoodie
Start Location
Empire Beach, Empire, MI, 49630
Course Info
USATF CertifiedCourse Type
Out & Back
Terrain
road
Scenery
Forest, Mountain
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Hilly
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
USATF Certified Course
MI22002DM · Sleeping Bear Half Marathon 2022
Relatively flat with minimal net elevation change. Loop course — start and finish are close together.
Course Map
3 other maps for this race
Quality Score
Standout8013 years running
~905 finishers a year
growing or steady
9% returning runners
USATF certified · 5 timing sources · 8 photos
runners from 27 states
winner 1:15:42
typical high 66°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
57°
Afternoon (High)
66°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.0"
Precipitation
14 mph
Wind
78%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 5,032 finishers actually crossed the line across 13 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
5,032
Median time
2:21:10
Latest turnout
689
States
41
Turnout by year
2017–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K?
The Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K is held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, starting at 8:00 AM.
Where does the Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K take place?
It takes place in Empire, Michigan.
What distances does the Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 26.2 Miles, 3.1 Miles.
Is the Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K course flat and good for a PR?
The Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K is a hilly, out & back course. The course is USATF-certified, so finish times can be used for qualifying.
How many people run the Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K?
HalfRuns has finish records for 5,032 runners who have completed the Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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