Sleeping Bear Marathon
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Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K
The Sleeping Bear event is held in Empire, Michigan on October 3, 2026, inside Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The race weekend includes three distances and finishes in Empire.
- Full Marathon
- Half Marathon
- 5K
The full marathon and half marathon start at the Dune Climb. The marathon follows an out-and-back route that passes the Dune Climb, Little Glen Lake, and the village of Glen Arbor, with views of the Manitou Islands and Sleeping Bear Dunes. The half marathon follows the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail and includes hilly, tree-lined sections. The 5K is an out-and-back course that begins at Empire Beach and finishes on the shores of Empire.
The event is scheduled during peak fall color season. Included for participants are a unisex lightweight tri blend hoodie, a custom finisher medal, post race refreshments and snacks with beer available for those 21 and older and a non alcoholic option, professional race timing, free digital race photos, and free participant tracking via RaceJoy. The marathon and half marathon are open to athletes aged 12 and older. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
