Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K

The Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K is a fall race series held in Empire, Michigan, located on the Lake Michigan side of the Lower Peninsula. The marathon and half marathon begin at the Dune Climb within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The 5K starts at Empire Beach. All three races conclude in Empire. The course follows Lake Michigan, rolling dunes, blue water, tree-lined roads, and northern Michigan scenery during peak fall color. The marathon course is USATF-certified, featuring a flat to gently rolling profile suitable for first-time marathoners, Boston Marathon hopefuls, and those aiming for a personal best. Participants receive chip timing with live results, a finisher medal, a race shirt, and post-race amenities.