No Frills Marathon

SEP
6
2026
Experience a focused and affordable race on the Bearskin Trail starting in downtown Minocqua. This Boston Marathon qualifier offers full and half distances plus a 5K and team relays through scenic wooded paths.
Sun 6 Sep 2026
26 miles 13 miles 5 kilometers

Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.

Event Overview

The No Frills Marathon is a running event centered in downtown Minocqua, Wisconsin. The race is designed to be straightforward and focuses on the athletic experience. Participants run on the Bearskin Trail, following an out-and-back course. The route begins in the downtown area and concludes on the trestle in Minocqua.

The marathon course is officially certified (certification # WI22019DM), making it a qualifying event for the Boston Marathon. Participants can choose between several distances and formats:

  • Marathon (26.2 Miles)
  • Half Marathon (13.1 Miles)
  • 5K
  • Marathon Relay for 2 member teams or 3 to 5 member teams

Early starts are available at 5:00 am or 6:00 am by special arrangement for those who require more time to complete the course. Runners opting for an early start are not eligible for overall first, second, or third place awards. Those starting at 5:00 am are advised to bring a headlamp for visibility on the wooded trail.

Packet pickup and registration take place at the American Legion on West Front Street. This is available on the Saturday evening before the event and on the morning of the race. The event partners with the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC). Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

26 mi
Marathon Relay 2 Member Teams
26 mi
Marathon Relay 3 to 5 Members
26 mi
Marathon
13 mi
Half Marathon
5 km