Gopher to Badger Half Marathon
The Gopher to Badger Half Marathon bridges Minnesota and Wisconsin with a scenic river crossing.
Race Date
Aug 8, 2026
Location
Lake Elmo, WI
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, August 8, 2026
- Location
- Lake Elmo, Wisconsin
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Point to Point
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
This annual event, first run in 1997, celebrates the friendly rivalry between Minnesota and Wisconsin. Runners begin near Stillwater, Minnesota, and make their way across the St. Croix River via the I-94 bridge, finishing in Hudson, Wisconsin. The course offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the river valley on foot.
With a flat profile and approximately zero feet of elevation change, the Gopher to Badger Half Marathon is designed for speed. This point-to-point course is a certified fast course, making it an attractive option for those aiming for a personal best or a Boston Marathon qualifying time. The race is produced by Run Stillwater, Inc., known for organizing races in both Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Participants can expect a festive atmosphere in Hudson following the race, with celebrations capping off the day. The event also includes 10K and 5K distances, welcoming a range of runners to this unique cross-state competition.
Race-provided description
Gopher to Badger Half Marathon, 10K, 5K. Run Stillwater, Inc. Producer of running races in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The best of the valley on foot.
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, August 8, 2026
Start Time
TBA
Start Location
12300 40th St N, Lake Elmo, WI, 55082
Course Info
Course Type
Point to Point
Terrain
road
Scenery
Lake River
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Quality Score
first year
no finisher counts yet
small race — neutral
needs a few years of results
4 timing sources
no finisher data yet
no winner time yet
typical high 80°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
65°
Afternoon (High)
80°
Hot conditions — adjust pace expectations, prioritize hydration
0.3"
Precipitation
10 mph
Wind
74%
Humidity
Frequently asked
When is the Gopher to Badger Half Marathon?
The Gopher to Badger Half Marathon is held on Saturday, August 8, 2026.
Where does the Gopher to Badger Half Marathon take place?
It takes place in Lake Elmo, Wisconsin.
What distances does the Gopher to Badger Half Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the Gopher to Badger Half Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The Gopher to Badger Half Marathon is a ultra-flat, point to point course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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