Michigan, the Great Lakes State, offers a beautiful backdrop for runners of all levels. From the shores of Lake Michigan to the heart of Detroit, there’s a marathon or half marathon race for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting your journey, here’s a list of annual Michigan marathons and half marathons across the state to add to your race calendar.
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Annual Michigan Marathons and More
1. Martian Invasion of Races
- Location: Dearborn, MI
- Date: April
- Details: With distances ranging from a a kids’ marathon & 5K to a full marathon, this event offers an out-of-this-world experience for runners.
2. Bayshore Marathon
- Location: Traverse City, MI
- Date: May
- Details: This race showcases the breathtaking beauty of Grand Traverse Bay and is known for its flat and fast course. Choose from the marathon, half marathon, 10K, or kids’ run.
3. Charlevoix Marathon
- Location: Charlevoix, MI
- Date: June
- Details: Experience the charm of Charlevoix while running along Lake Michigan and Lake Charlevoix.
4. Town Crier Races
- Location: Saugatuck, MI
- Date: June
- Details: Run Lake Michigan’s beautiful art coast! Participants can choose between the half marathon, 10K, or 5K.
5. Holland Haven Marathon
- Location: Holland, MI
- Date: September
- Details: Run along Lake Michigan and through the beautiful parks of Holland. This race is a final opportunity for those wishing to qualify for the Boston Marathon. Only one day before the Boston Marathon registration opens, runners can make the qualifiers.
6. The Capital City River Run
- Location: Lansing, MI
- Date: September
- Details: This event offers multiple race options, including a half marathon, half marathon relay, and kids’ races all showcasing Lansing’s beautiful river trail system.
7. Detroit Women’s Half Marathon
- Location: Detroit, MI
- Date: September
- Details: This women-only event supports various local charities and offers a scenic run through the beautiful Belle Isle State Park. Events include a triathlon, duathlon, 5K, 10K and half marathon. When it comes to Michigan half marathons, this is a must!
8. Probility Ann Arbor Marathon
- Location: Ann Arbor, MI
- Date: October
- Details: Experience Probility Ann Arbor Marathon and support local mental health charities. Participants will make their way through the beautiful streets of downtown Ann Arbor, then wind their way through the picturesque campus of the University of Michigan. Runners can choose between a marathon, half marathon, 19-mile, 10K, 5K, or relay.
9. Great Turtle Half Marathon and 5.7 Mile Run
- Location: Mackinac Island, MI
- Date: October
- Details: Run on the scenic car-free island of Mackinac and enjoy breathtaking views of the Straits of Mackinac. This is one of the best Michigan half marathons.
10. Detroit Free Press Marathon
- Location: Detroit, MI
- Date: October
- Details: This international marathon, half marathon, relay, 5K, and kids run lets you run through two countries, starting in Detroit, crossing the Ambassador Bridge into Windsor, Canada, and then back through the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel.
11. Grand Rapids Marathon
- Location: Grand Rapids, MI
- Date: October
- Details: The Grand Rapids Marathon offers a scenic course through the city and a beautiful stretch along the Grand River.
These annual Michigan marathons and half marathons offer a variety of race experiences, from scenic lakeside routes to urban city runs. Whether you’re looking for a challenge, a leisurely jog, or a unique event like the Martian Invasion of Races, the Great Lakes State has something for every runner. So lace up your running shoes and start planning your Michigan race itinerary.
We invite you to consider turning race day into a holiday stay!! Expend your trip by turning it into a vacation. It is the perfect way to rest and recuperate after a race. Our amazing selection of vacation rental homes throughout Michigan allows you to find the perfect rental with the click of a button.
Book directly with Freshwater Vacation Rentals for great customer service and the best prices.