Top of Michigan Festival of Races
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Event overview
The Top of Michigan Festival of Races takes place on Saturday, May 23, 2026, in Petoskey, Michigan. The event includes three races: a Half Marathon, a 10K, and a 5K Run/Walk. Proceeds benefit the Top of Michigan Trails Council and the Petoskey High School Track and Cross Country teams. Registration fees listed for early registration are $70 for the half marathon, $45 for the 10K, and $30 for the 5K. Prices increase on February 15, 2026, and again on April 15, 2026.
Course and logistics
All races start and finish in Petoskey at Bayfront Park - Lime Kiln Kid's Fishing Pier and run along the Little Traverse Wheelway, a non-motorized trail that connects Charlevoix, Petoskey/Bay Harbor, and Harbor Springs. The courses are mostly paved with some sections on grass, a short section on trail, and a portion that connects into Petoskey State Park for the half marathon and 10K. The route is relatively flat and runs beside Little Traverse Bay, with a few off-road sections on grass and dirt.
Packet pickup is available on the days before and the day of the event at the Lime Kiln Kid's Fishing Pier area. Registration includes refreshments, finisher medals, top male and female awards, and a T-shirt (T-shirt order cutoff is May 12). Public parking is available in three lots along Bayfront Drive; the marina parking lot should not be used. Sunset Park and designated Kilwins parking sections offer additional spaces. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
