Black Hills Veterans March and Marathon 2026

South Dakota Army National Guard soldiers, inspired by their experience at the Bataan Memorial Death March, envisioned honoring the sacrifices of the nation’s servicemen and women. The Black Hills National Forest and Mickelson Trail provided a fitting location. A recon team laid the foundation in 2002, leading to the 2004 Black Hills Veterans March and Marathon. A Heavy Military option requires participants to complete the course with a 35lb rucksack, honoring all Veterans.