2026 - NorthShore Inline Marathon | Duluth, MN, United States

About the Event

On a crisp autumn morning on September 18, the NorthShore Inline Marathon will come alive as skaters and runners alike lace up their gear. The event is set to take place along the scenic shores of Lake Superior in Duluth. With its diverse landscape and community energy, this race day promises to be an unforgettable experience. The tradition continues for our 28th year, making it a cornerstone of the local sports calendar.
The air will carry the scent of fall as runners and skaters converge on Duluth's North Shore. On that particular morning, expect temperatures around 17 degrees Celsius with slightly soft trail conditions due to early autumn rains. The landscape is dominated by the towering hills and dense woods along Lake Superior’s shoreline, offering a mix of urban and rural charm. As the sun rises, communities gather at parks and streetside gatherings, building an atmosphere that's both welcoming and spirited.
Founded in 1996 as part of the inline skating community, the NorthShore Inline Marathon has grown to become one of the premier events of its kind. Thousands participate each year, coming from all walks of life to enjoy this unique race experience. The marathon’s route spans over 26.2 miles through historic neighborhoods and along picturesque Lake Superior pathways. It's a testament to the enduring love for inline skating in Duluth.
Course & Conditions:
The NorthShore Inline Marathon course will navigate through diverse terrains, featuring both paved roads and soft trails. Runners and skaters alike will traverse firm but slightly softer ground, ensuring an engaging experience. The start is at 350 Harbor Drive, where the race begins with a scenic route along the shore of Lake Superior before branching into historic downtown Duluth.
Special features include several aid stations positioned strategically throughout the course to ensure runners have access to water and refreshments without overburdening them. Elevation changes are minimal but will add an element of variety for participants, while tunnels like those on Interstate 35 offer a unique challenge and opportunity for skaters.

Northern Lights Foundation Kids Sprint: INLINE SKATE
200m • Start: 16:00:00 • Fee: $0.00

Northern Lights Foundation Kids Sprint: RUN
200m • Start: 16:00:00 • Fee: $0.00

Combined 39.3 Mile Skate
39.3 Miles • Start: 06:45:00 • Fee: $130.00

Half Marathon Skate
13.1 Miles • Start: 06:45:00 • Fee: $69.00

Marwe Half Marathon Rollerski
21K • Start: 06:50:00 • Fee: $54.00

Aspirus St. Luke's Half Marathon Run
13.1 Miles • Start: 07:00:00 • Fee: $69.00

CIty of Duluth Tunnel 10k Skate
10K • Start: 07:45:00 • Fee: $44.00

Finden Marketing Tunnel 10k Run
10K • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: $44.00

FinnSisu Rollerski Marathon
42K • Start: 08:30:00 • Fee: $89.00

NorthShore Inline Marathon
26.2 Miles • Start: 08:45:00 • Fee: $89.00

Logistics:
Register online at https://runsignup.com/Race/MN/Duluth/NorthShoreInlineMarathonandSkateFest. Fees vary by distance from $44 to $130, with early bird deadlines of August 25 and regular registration closing on September 16.
Bib pickup will be available at the event venue starting two days before race day. Address for bib pickup: 350 Harbor Drive, Duluth, MN, United States.
Participants should meet at 350 Harbor Drive by 7 AM to secure their spots in the start line. Age requirements are 16 and above; first-timers will find a supportive environment and helpful volunteers on hand throughout the race.
Closing:
Join us for the NorthShore Inline Marathon from September 18-19, 2026, in Duluth, Minnesota, United States. This event not only celebrates fitness but also brings together communities through shared passion and dedication. Don't miss out on a chance to be part of this vibrant tradition!

Races Offered

Northern Lights Foundation Kids Sprint: INLINE SKATE

Sep 18, 2026

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Distance — 200m

terrain

Type — Running

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16:00

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$0.00

Northern Lights Foundation Kids Sprint: RUN

Sep 18, 2026

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Distance — 200m

terrain

Type — Running

timer

16:00

sell

$0.00

Combined 39.3 Mile Skate

Sep 19, 2026

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Distance — 39.3 Miles

terrain

Type — Running

timer

06:45

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$130.00

Half Marathon Skate

Sep 19, 2026

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Distance — 13.1 Miles

terrain

Type — Running

timer

06:45

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$69.00

Marwe Half Marathon Rollerski

Sep 19, 2026

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Distance — 21K

terrain

Type — Running

timer

06:50

sell

$54.00

Aspirus St. Luke's Half Marathon Run

Sep 19, 2026

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Distance — 13.1 Miles

terrain

Type — Running

timer

07:00

sell

$69.00

CIty of Duluth Tunnel 10k Skate

Sep 19, 2026

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Distance — 10K

terrain

Type — Running

timer

07:45

sell

$44.00

Finden Marketing Tunnel 10k Run

Sep 19, 2026

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Distance — 10K

terrain

Type — Running

timer

08:00

sell

$44.00

FinnSisu Rollerski Marathon

Sep 19, 2026

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Distance — 42K

terrain

Type — Running

timer

08:30

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$89.00

NorthShore Inline Marathon

Sep 19, 2026

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Distance — 26.2 Miles

terrain

Type — Running

timer

08:45

sell

$89.00

Weather History

These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Duluth.

thermostat Temperature

14.0° / 21.9°

wb_sunny Feels like

12.3° / 20.9°

light_mode Avg sunshine hours

9h 19m

water_drop Avg rainfall

2.5 mm

ac_unit Avg snowfall

—

air Avg wind speed

11.8 km/h (Light breeze)

opacity Sweat loss rate

Moderate

terrain Course conditions

Firm and slightly soft

sunny Max UV Index

Moderate (3.5)

humidity_mid Humidity

78.3%

wb_twilight Sunrise

06:47

nightlight Sunset

19:18

About Duluth

Learn more about the host city, Duluth.

Duluth is a city of about 86,000 people (2018) in northern Minnesota. It is one of the most scenic cities in the Midwest. Duluth has a thriving tourism industry, with antique shops, excellent restaurants, cozy inns, and scenic views of the lake. There is a ski resort inside city limits.