Minnesota is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, from those looking for relaxation on sandy beaches to challenging hikes along rugged terrain. No matter your ability or experience level, Minnesota offers something special for every outdoor adventurer.
Events to watch out for include the Twin Cities Marathon, which winds along tree-lined parkways and lakes, and Superior Trail Races which challenge runners with out-and-back courses positioned along Lake Superior.
Polar Dash Half Marathon
Duluth’s annual June marathon has long been a favorite among Minnesota runners, but this year faces stiffer competition from two new 26.2-mile races in Twin Cities and Stillwater.
The Polar Dash offers half marathon, 10K, 5K and 1600-meter Polar Dashes as well as the Yeti Challenge which involves competing in all three races in one morning!
Bemidji Blue Ox Marathon
Bemidji Blue Ox Marathon, held annually since 1992, offers breathtaking fall scenery and a festive atmosphere during its spectacular fall run. The race features half marathon, full marathon and 26K lake loop courses along with 5K runs for both adults and children taking place throughout the weekend. On Friday of each race weekend there are 5K runs as well as kids’ fun runs!
Bemidji, Minnesota offers scenic running terrain. Many runners cite its striking surroundings as one of the reasons they love participating in Bemidji races, including Paul Bunyan State Forest nearby. Runners also appreciate Bemidji for its numerous state forests including Paul Bunyan State Forest which offer running paths.
Dick Beardsley Marathon
Dick Beardsley is one of America’s greatest marathon runners. In the 1982 Boston Marathon dubbed “The Duel in the Sun”, Beardsley battled hard with Alberto Salazar to claim second place – just 1.6 seconds behind Salazar!
Come September, enjoy running a full or half marathon, 25K, 10K, 5K or youth run at this classic small town race in Detroit Lakes tucked into Minnesota’s Land of 10,000 Lakes and offering scenic views as summer turns to fall.
Mankato Marathon
The Mankato Marathon is an exceptional event featuring dynamic courses and driven runners. This event includes full marathon, relay half marathon, 10K run 5K run and KidsK race events – with excellent course support throughout to keep participants going all the way! Don’t miss this bold race event that promises exceptional course support from start to finish.
Both the half and full marathon events begin near Minnesota State University at Stadium Road and Monk Avenue. Once on Red Jacket Trail, participants quickly begin enjoying some of the area’s stunning natural landscape.
Med City Marathon
Med City Marathon of Rochester, Minnesota hosts an annual full marathon, half marathon and relay race since 1996 and is USATF certified to offer Boston Marathon qualifying times. Starting near Rochester International Airport and concluding near Mayo Clinic and downtown Rochester on a point-to-point course.
At Rochester Mayo Civic Center, a Health and Fitness Expo will be hosted. A 5K run/walk, Altra Federal Credit Union Kids Marathon, Ronald McDonald Family 1.8 mile run/walk as well as other children events will also take place during this weekend event.
Voyageur 50 Mile
The Voyageur 50 Mile Ultramarathon is a punishing out-and-back course between Carlton High School and Lake Superior Zoo and back. Established over 35 years ago, this race remains one of the oldest trail ultras in America. Although Benjamin Cogger, last year’s men’s champion is not returning this year due to injury concerns, several top five finishers from last year will return.
Runners from across the nation will come together on this renowned course to compete. All start/finish/pre-race festivities take place at Carlton High School.
Surly Trail Loppet
The Surly Trail Loppet provides both competitive and noncompetitive events for runners of all ages and abilities. Timed races traverse trails and hills within Minneapolis’ Theodore Wirth Park, known for its ponds, lakes, bogs, wildflower gardens, and breathtaking views of downtown.
Loppet Nordic Racing coach Matt Liebsch took first place in the men’s category while Brian Gregg finished closely behind to secure second place overall in Loppet Nordic Racing team competition. Runners raved about its difficult course which would test even experienced trail runners like himself.
Endless Summer Trail Run Series
Trail running has taken hold in Illinois with tremendous fervor, and this weeknight series hits on all cylinders. Held in parks that boast extensive off-road trail systems, these races often sell out several weeks or even months prior.
Rocksteady Running and Twin Cities Running Company of Minnesota created this race series as an easy, low-pressure trail running/racing experience that is welcoming to runners of all ages and abilities.
Superior Spring Trail Races
The Superior Trail Races are held annually in Lutsen. Their courses follow the Superior Hiking Trail – an incline with breathtaking views of Duluth from rocky paths – for runners to experience some truly incredible scenic routes.
This course is widely known for being among Minnesota’s toughest thanks to a series of challenging hills. Runners should exercise extreme caution as vandalism on trails may occur at times during races of this length – especially on 50KM courses.