The Paavo Nurmi Marathon
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The Paavo Nurmi Marathon
The Paavo Nurmi Marathon is a point-to-point running event held in Northern Iron County, Wisconsin. Recognized as the longest running marathon in the state, the event celebrates its 55th year in 2025. The course takes participants along roads normally inaccessible to the public, passing through shaded pine groves and by the only standing mine headframe in Wisconsin. The race concludes in downtown Hurley.
Participants can choose from several event distances and formats:
- 26.2 Miles (Full Marathon)
- 26.2 Miles (Marathon Relay)
- 26.2 Miles (Handcycle Marathon)
- 26.2 Miles (Virtual Marathon)
- 13.1 Miles (Half Marathon)
- 3.1 Miles (Twilight 5K Run/Walk)
The 26.2 mile course is verified, though it is not a Boston Marathon Qualifier for the current year due to temporary route adjustments for safety. These changes were implemented to avoid increased traffic and a bridge outage on previous segments of the route. Finishers of the marathon, half marathon, and relay categories receive custom medals made from local wood by local artisans.
A Twilight 5K Run/Walk is held on Friday evening in conjunction with the event expo. This shorter distance includes a specific category for youth aged 12 and younger. Those participating in the virtual marathon are given a 26.2-day window to complete their distance and receive a finisher hat and medal. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
