YMCA Maple Leaf Walk Run
The 27th Annual Maple Leaf Walk Run benefits the Y's Food Program in La Crosse, WI.
Race Date
Sep 26, 2026
Location
La Crosse, WI
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, September 26, 2026
- Location
- La Crosse, Wisconsin
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 5 Miles, 3.1 Miles, 1 Miles, 13.1 Miles
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Yes
- Finishers on record
- 1,058
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The YMCA Maple Leaf Walk Run, now in its 27th year, is a cherished community event in La Crosse, Wisconsin, dedicated to supporting the Y's Food Program. This established race offers a half marathon alongside shorter distances, all starting and finishing in the scenic Riverside Park.
The course winds through a portion of the iconic Oktoberfest parade route, offering a unique running experience. With approximately 290 finishers recently, the event sees runners from around 12 states, and a loyal 28% return each year. The half marathon has a time limit of 2 hours and 45 minutes, ensuring the course is clear for the start of the Oktoberfest Parade.
Participants can look forward to a long-sleeve unisex t-shirt as part of their registration. After crossing the finish line, runners are invited to enjoy a sweet treat, capping off a day of community and charitable effort.
Race-provided description
Join us for the 27th Annual Maple Leaf Walk Run to help benefit the Y's Food Program. Our tried and true events include a half marathon, 5 Mile and 5K that start and end in beautiful Riverside Park and run through part of the iconic Oktoberfest parade route. After the race, join us for a sweet treat. Thank you for choosing the Maple Leaf Walk Run. We look forward to seeing you in September. Start Times: Half Marathon: 7:00am (THERE IS A 2 HOUR AND 45 MINUTE TIME CUTOFF DUE TO THE PARADE START!!) 5 Mile: 7:15am 5K: 7:30am -The Y Due to the start of the Oktoberfest Parade, there is a 2 hour and 45 minute cutoff for all races. The course will be pulled at 9:45am for the start of the parade. Thank you for your understanding of this unique situation.
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, September 26, 2026
Start Time
7:00 AM
Giveaway
Longsleeve Unisex T-Shirt
Start Location
50 State Street, La Crosse, WI, 54601
Course Info
USATF CertifiedCourse Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Park, Urban
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
USATF Certified Course
WI17025DM · Maple Leaf Half Marathon
Relatively flat with minimal net elevation change. Loop course — start and finish are close together.
Course Map
Quality Score
Standout755 years running
~260 finishers a year
growing or steady
28% returning runners
USATF certified · 3 timing sources · 8 photos
runners from 12 states
winner 1:08:11
typical high 72°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
54°
Afternoon (High)
72°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.1"
Precipitation
9 mph
Wind
73%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 1,058 finishers actually crossed the line across 5 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
1,058
Median time
2:03:49
Latest turnout
290
States
21
Turnout by year
2020–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the YMCA Maple Leaf Walk Run?
The YMCA Maple Leaf Walk Run is held on Saturday, September 26, 2026, starting at 7:00 AM.
Where does the YMCA Maple Leaf Walk Run take place?
It takes place in La Crosse, Wisconsin.
What distances does the YMCA Maple Leaf Walk Run offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 5 Miles, 3.1 Miles, 1 Miles, 13.1 Miles.
Is the YMCA Maple Leaf Walk Run course flat and good for a PR?
The YMCA Maple Leaf Walk Run is a ultra-flat, loop course course. The course is USATF-certified, so finish times can be used for qualifying.
How many people run the YMCA Maple Leaf Walk Run?
HalfRuns has finish records for 1,058 runners who have completed the YMCA Maple Leaf Walk Run.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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