Bayshore Marathon 2025

• Scenic, fast course along Grand Traverse Bay; ideal for Boston Marathon qualification.
• Limited to 2,000 runners; no virtual option available.
• Starts at Northwestern Michigan College; 18 aid stations along the route.
• Finish line closes at 1:15 PM; bag drop and shuttle services provided.
• Recognized Boston qualifier; age group awards and prize money offered.

The Bayshore Marathon in Traverse City, Michigan, is a must-run for those who crave breathtaking scenery and a supportive atmosphere. Held each spring, this race boasts a stunning out-and-back route along Old Mission Peninsula, treating runners to panoramic views of Lake Michigan’s East Grand Traverse Bay, rolling hills, lush cherry orchards, and vineyards.

The course's fast and mostly flat terrain is perfect for those aiming for personal records or a Boston Marathon qualifying time. With a full marathon, half marathon, and 10K, it caters to runners of all skill levels. The strong community support, enthusiastic volunteers, and well-placed aid stations ensure a seamless race day experience.

The Bayshore Marathon attracts an elite field, including professional athletes and Olympic hopefuls, offering recreational runners the thrill of sharing the course with top-tier competitors. As a qualifier for both the Boston Marathon and the U.S. Olympic Trials, it presents unique competitive opportunities.

With its combination of natural beauty, ideal spring temperatures, and vibrant community spirit, the Bayshore Marathon promises a memorable experience that keeps runners coming back year after year.

Expect temperatures between 40-66°F (4-19°C) during the Bayshore Marathon in Traverse City, Michigan, in late May. Conditions are generally favorable for running with moderate humidity and slightly windy weather, though there's a chance of light rain. The event benefits from long daylight hours, ideal for a morning start.

The Bayshore Marathon in Traverse City, Michigan, offers runners a stunning journey along the shores of Grand Traverse Bay. This flat, out-and-back course is entirely paved and features only a few gentle hills, making it ideal for those aiming for a personal best or a Boston Marathon qualifying time. With a minimal elevation change of just 329 feet, the route is designed for speed and smooth running.

The marathon kicks off at Northwestern Michigan College, navigating through a mile of charming residential streets before unfolding along the East Arm of Grand Traverse Bay. Key roads such as Birchwood Drive, East Shore Road, Center Road (M-37), and Bluff Road guide runners past breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, cherry orchards, and vineyards.

A standout feature of this marathon is its picturesque setting, with the added thrill of finishing inside a stadium, where participants sprint the final 200 meters on a track. While generally fast and flat, runners should be prepared for the potential challenges of pacing and hydration, as well as variable weather conditions like wind or heat.

The Bayshore Marathon also includes a half marathon and a 10K, both offering the same scenic beauty on a shorter scale. Celebrated for its stunning vistas and fast course, the Bayshore Marathon promises an unforgettable race experience for all participants.

Explore Traverse City during the Bayshore Marathon and discover a destination brimming with natural beauty and cultural charm. Beyond the race, the area offers much to see and do. Traverse City's vibrant downtown features an array of shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, perfect for post-race relaxation. Don't miss the breathtaking Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where towering sand dunes meet scenic hiking trails, or the picturesque views along Grand Traverse Bay, which the marathon course elegantly traces.

For a dose of culture, visit the Dennos Museum Center for intriguing art exhibits or catch a live performance at the Interlochen Center for the Arts. History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum and the historic Village at Grand Traverse Commons.

Wine lovers can indulge in tours of nearby cherry orchards and wineries, while outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of biking, fishing, and hiking opportunities in the area's state parks. If you're visiting in summer, don't miss the Traverse City Film Festival or the Interlochen Shakespeare Festival, which showcase the region's vibrant cultural scene. Secure your accommodation early, as Traverse City is a popular destination, especially around marathon time. Whether you're here to run, relax, or explore, Traverse City offers a memorable experience for every traveler.