
Saturday, October 3, 2026
Empire, Michigan
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!
Race Day
Saturday, October 3, 2026 · 10/3/2026 08:00
Start Location
Empire Beach, Empire, MI 49630
Course
Loop
Also Offers
Giveaway
Unisex Lightweight Tri-Blend Hoodie
Registration
Register online — $75
Race Website
Official race information
2:21:10
10:47/mi pace
1:15:43
5:47/mi pace
689
64% female · 37% male
27 states
Avg age: 37
Finish Time Distribution (2025)
2:04:17
Top 25%
2:41:35
Top 75%
☀
Avg High
66°F
☽
Avg Low
57°F
☂
Precip
0.03 in
🍃
Wind
14.4 mph
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!
Race Day
Saturday, October 3, 2026 · 10/3/2026 08:00
Start Location
Empire Beach, Empire, MI 49630
Course
Loop
Also Offers
Giveaway
Unisex Lightweight Tri-Blend Hoodie
Registration
Register online — $75
Race Website
Official race information
2:21:10
10:47/mi pace
1:15:43
5:47/mi pace
689
64% female · 37% male
27 states
Avg age: 37
Finish Time Distribution (2025)
2:04:17
Top 25%
2:41:35
Top 75%