Marathon races near West Springfield

The Bass Pro Shops Conservation Marathon Weekend begins outside Bass Pro Shops in Springfield, Missouri, and concludes at Wonders of Wildlife. Participants can choose from four race options: a Boston-qualifying marathon, the Maynard Cohick Half Marathon, the stroller-friendly CMC Recycling 5K, or a five-leg relay (10K, 5K, 10K, 5K, and 12K). The marathon, a 26.2-mile course with flat sections and Ozarks-style rolling hills, is suitable for both new marathoners and those aiming for a personal best. The race courses traverse Springfield neighborhoods, paved trails, a segment of historic Route 66, Missouri State University, downtown streets, and local parks. The half marathon follows the marathon course for its initial 10 miles before heading through downtown, parks, past Mother's Brewery, and onto a portion of the Ozark Greenways Trail. The 5K route winds behind Bass Pro Shops and through adjacent neighborhoods, finishing at Wonders of Wildlife. Runners and walkers from local to international levels participate, with all finishers receiving race shirts, medals, swag, and recovery provisions.