The Driftless Half Marathon 2026

The Driftless Half Marathon takes place on the Great River Road in northeast Iowa, near Lansing and the Mississippi River. This fall running event features a half marathon, a half marathon relay, a 5K, and a 10K+ option that covers 6.6 miles instead of the standard 6.2. The main race begins early in the morning, while the shorter events offer participants a chance to be part of the day without running the full 13.1 miles. The half marathon course is point-to-point, crossing the Driftless Area, a region of Iowa with tall bluffs and river valleys. A four-mile gravel stretch on Red Oak Road provides runners with Mississippi River vistas. Near mile 10, the course follows the river towards the finish line close to the Blackhawk Bridge. The race typically occurs during Iowa's peak fall foliage, lending the course a distinct autumn atmosphere. Relay teams can divide the half marathon, walkers are permitted, and the 5K is suitable for families and less experienced runners.