Top of Michigan Festival of Races
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Top of Michigan Festival of Races
The Top of Michigan Festival of Races is a two-day event on May 22-23, 2026, based at Lime Kiln Kid’s Fishing Pier, Bayfront Park in Petoskey, Michigan. The festival benefits the Top of Michigan Trails Council and the Petoskey High School Track and Cross Country teams.
The courses run along the Little Traverse Wheelway, a non-motorized trail that connects Charlevoix, Petoskey/Bay Harbor and Harbor Springs. The races for 2026 use out-and-back routes from Petoskey’s waterfront. The trail is mostly paved with a few off-road sections on grass and dirt and a short section of trail; the 10K and Half Marathon connect into Petoskey State Park.
Distances:
- Half Marathon - 13.1 Miles
- 10K Run - 6.2 Miles
- 5K Run/Walk - 3.1 Miles
A new Shake Out Run takes place in Charlevoix on the Friday before the main races at 327 Bridge St. Registration fees listed for early registration are $70 for the Half, $45 for the 10K and $30 for the 5K, with scheduled price increases on February 15 and April 15, 2026. Registration includes refreshments, finisher medals, top male and female awards, and a T-shirt while supplies last with a cutoff on May 12.
Parking options include three public lots along Bayfront Drive, a few spots at Sunset Park above the bluff, and designated sections of Kilwins parking. Participants should allow time to park and walk to the start area. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
