HalfRuns
Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K

Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K

Race Date

Oct 3, 2026

Location

Empire, MI

The Experience

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

Directions

Course Info

USATF Certified

Course Type

Loop Course

Terrain

road

Difficulty

Ultra-Flat

Elevation Gain

0'

Net Drop/km

0 m (Flat)

Separation

0.0%

Also Offers

26.2 Miles3.1 Miles

USATF Certified Course

MI22002DM · Sleeping Bear Half Marathon 2022

Relatively flat with minimal net elevation change. Loop course — start and finish are close together.

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (Low)

57°

Afternoon (High)

66°

Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish

0.0"

Precipitation

14 mph

Wind

78%

Humidity

Race Photos

Historical Finish Time Distribution

2,855 finishers across 5 years

1:155:30

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