Circle the Lake Half Marathon
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Circle the Lake Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K
The event on September 19, 2026, offers three marked courses that circle Circle Lake in rural Rice County, Minnesota, about 20 minutes south of Burnsville. Distances available include:
- Half Marathon
- 10K
- 5K
Courses run over rolling hills on a mix of paved and dirt roads. The route starts and ends at the historic Millersburg School House and follows part of Dodd Road, a route linked to the Jesse James Gang on September 6, 1876. Mile markers are posted and all races are chip timed. Water and sports drinks are available at stations along the course.
The setting includes lakeshore views and wildlife sightings such as bald eagles, osprey, deer, ducks, and pelicans. An island in Circle Lake is noted as habitat for multiple species. The event is open to competitive racers as well as families, kids, seniors, and dogs, and is described as iPod friendly with a safety reminder to keep volume low when wearing headphones.
Organized by the Circle Lake Association, the event is a charity fundraiser whose proceeds support watershed improvement projects for the lake. After the race participants are offered a complimentary drink at Boonie’s Grill. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
