Michigan 2025 Marathons

The Groundhog Day Marathon in Walker, Michigan, stands out with its unique 12-loop course, echoing the repetitive charm of its namesake film and offering a certified Boston qualifier amidst potential snow and ice. This winter race is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, well-stocked aid stations, and the rewarding sense of camaraderie, making it a memorable challenge for runners of all levels.

The Zeigler Kalamazoo Marathon challenges runners with its varied terrain and whimsical landmarks, like the Gummy Bear Forest and Bacon Station, on a USATF-certified course. This community-focused event, held at Bronson Park, offers a festive atmosphere with multiple race options, a vibrant health expo, and eco-friendly initiatives, making it a memorable experience for runners of all levels.

The Armed Services Marathon in Grand Haven, Michigan, offers a scenic "out-and-back" course with tributes to service members and aid stations staffed by each military branch, adding a patriotic dimension to the race. As a USATF-certified event and a qualifier for major marathons like Boston and New York City, it combines a competitive edge with a meaningful cause, supporting the Folds of Honor Michigan.

The Bayshore Marathon in Traverse City, Michigan, provides a breathtaking run along the shores of Grand Traverse Bay with a flat, out-and-back course perfect for those seeking a personal best or a Boston Marathon qualifying time. With its stunning views of Lake Michigan, cherry orchards, and vineyards, combined with a supportive community and well-organized race day, participants enjoy an unforgettable marathon experience each spring.

The MISH Waterfront Marathon in Gladstone, Michigan, offers runners breathtaking views along Little Bay de Noc, featuring a rolling course that navigates a new boardwalk through VanCleve Park. This USATF-certified event not only provides a chance to qualify for the Boston Marathon but also delivers a memorable race experience with its intimate atmosphere and supportive community.

The Charlevoix Marathon features a scenic out-and-back course that begins and ends at the iconic Draw Bridge in downtown Charlevoix, offering runners breathtaking views of Lake Michigan along primarily flat terrain with a few challenging hills. Known for its Boston-qualifying potential and strong community support, this race combines the charm of a small town with a vibrant atmosphere, making it a favorite for those seeking both personal bests and a welcoming race experience.

The Grand Island Trail Marathon takes runners on a captivating loop around the island, featuring stunning views of the 300-foot Jacobsville sandstone cliffs and the breathtaking Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Known for its eco-friendly practices and diverse terrain, this marathon offers a challenging yet rewarding experience through lush forests and along the pristine shores of Lake Superior, making it a must-run for trail enthusiasts seeking a unique adventure.

The Millennium Meadows Marathon in Grand Rapids, MI, features a scenic 4.05-mile loop through Millennium Park's lush meadows and along the Grand River, offering a mostly flat and shaded course ideal for running. Known for its community spirit and Boston-qualifying potential, this late-August race challenges runners with its repetitive loops and warm weather, while providing ample support and a chance to achieve personal bests amidst beautiful natural surroundings.

The Marquette Marathon takes runners on a breathtaking point-to-point journey from Ishpeming to Marquette, Michigan, featuring a predominantly downhill course with a significant elevation drop of 1,241 feet and scenic views along the Iron Ore Heritage Trail. As a Boston Marathon qualifier held on Labor Day weekend, this race combines the allure of a fast course with the vibrant community spirit and picturesque backdrop of Lake Superior, making it a compelling choice for both seasoned and aspiring marathoners.

The Run Woodstock Marathon in Gregory, MI, challenges runners with its rugged 26.2-mile course featuring technical single-track trails and a cumulative elevation gain of 2,349 feet through picturesque landscapes. As part of a lively weekend festival, this marathon combines the thrill of trail running with a vibrant mix of music, yoga, and community activities, creating an unforgettable experience for participants.

The Holland Haven Marathon offers a breathtaking course from Grand Haven to Holland, Michigan, with its flat, USATF-certified route skirting the scenic shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa, ideal for those chasing a Boston Marathon qualification. This race not only tests endurance but also immerses runners in the vibrant community spirit of Holland, complete with a festive post-race celebration featuring live music and local cuisine.

The Last Chance BQ.2 - Grand Rapids Marathon features a six-loop, flat course in the scenic Millennium Park, designed for consistent pacing and Boston qualification, with stunning views of lakes and meadows. With a limited field of 330 runners, this race creates a focused and supportive environment, ideal for those determined to achieve their Boston Marathon qualifying times.

The Sleeping Bear Marathon in Northern Michigan challenges runners with its significant climbs and stunning views along the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, especially between miles 18.5 and 24.75. Set amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, this USATF-certified Boston Marathon qualifier offers a rewarding experience with its vibrant fall foliage, iconic landmarks, and a well-organized event that includes professional timing and post-race festivities.

The Probility Ann Arbor Marathon offers a challenging double-loop course that winds through Ann Arbor's vibrant cityscape, featuring rolling hills and scenic landmarks like the University of Michigan and Nichols Arboretum. As a USATF-certified race and a qualifier for the Boston and New York Marathons, it combines athletic rigor with a strong community focus, supporting mental health initiatives and offering a fulfilling experience for runners of all levels.

The Grand Rapids Marathon takes runners through a scenic blend of urban landmarks and natural beauty, with a mostly flat course that winds past the historic Sixth Street Bridge, the Gerald R. Ford Museum, and loops through Millennium Park's "Enchanted Forest." Known for its inclusive atmosphere and strong community support, this race offers a memorable experience with multiple event options, ample aid stations, and a festive finish line celebration at the Grand Rapids YMCA.

The Detroit Free Press Marathon uniquely takes runners across international borders, offering a flat course that traverses the scenic Ambassador Bridge and Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, with stunning skyline views of both Detroit and Windsor. This race stands out for its vibrant route through Detroit's historic neighborhoods and diverse landscapes, creating an unforgettable experience for runners eager to participate in one of the world's few cross-border marathons.

The Rock CF Thumb Coast Marathon features a flat, fast course with stunning views of Lake Huron, making it ideal for runners aiming to set personal records. This race not only offers a memorable experience through Michigan's scenic landscapes but also supports the Rock CF Foundation, adding meaningful purpose to every mile.