Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K
- Date Sat 3rd October 2026
- Time 7:30AM EDT
- Location Empire, Michigan
- Price $39.40 - $92.43
- Races 3 races
- Distances Marathon, Half Marathon, 5km
Event summary
Get ready to lace up your running shoes for the Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K, taking place on Saturday, October 3, 2026, in the stunning town of Empire, Leelanau. This exhilarating event invites participants to run through the breathtaking landscapes of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, finishing in the picturesque village of Empire, MI.
The Marathon and Half Marathon kick off at the iconic Dune Climb, offering a scenic out-and-back course that showcases the beauty of Little Glen Lake and the charming village of Glen Arbor, with sweeping views of the Manitou Islands. The Half Marathon features challenging hills along the scenic Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, while the 5K offers a delightful out-and-back route that concludes at the serene shores of Empire Beach. Held at the peak of fall color season, this event promises an unforgettable experience for both runners and spectators. Join us to discover why Good Morning America has named this area one of the most beautiful in the United States!
The Marathon and Half Marathon kick off at the iconic Dune Climb, offering a scenic out-and-back course that showcases the beauty of Little Glen Lake and the charming village of Glen Arbor, with sweeping views of the Manitou Islands. The Half Marathon features challenging hills along the scenic Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, while the 5K offers a delightful out-and-back route that concludes at the serene shores of Empire Beach. Held at the peak of fall color season, this event promises an unforgettable experience for both runners and spectators. Join us to discover why Good Morning America has named this area one of the most beautiful in the United States!
Organiser's Description
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!
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!
Races
-
Full Marathon
Incl. $7.43 Fee & Unisex Lightweight Tri-Blend Hoodie
Sat 3rd October 2026 (7:30AM EDT)
$92.43
OPENS 01 JAN 26 -
Half Marathon
Incl. $6.88 Fee & Unisex Lightweight Tri-Blend Hoodie
Sat 3rd October 2026 (8:00AM EDT)
$81.88
OPENS 01 JAN 26 -
5k
Incl. $4.40 Fee & Unisex Lightweight Tri-Blend Hoodie
Sat 3rd October 2026 (8:20AM EDT)
$39.40
OPENS 01 JAN 26
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Empire Beach, 10484 Niagra St., Empire, 49630, MI, United States
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Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K
