The Grand Island Trail Runs returns to Munising, Michigan on July 25th, offering runners a unique opportunity to explore the perimeter trails of Grand Island in Lake Superior. This event is part of Great Lakes Endurance's lineup and follows the island’s trail counterclockwise from Murray Bay up past Duck Lake before heading east into the Tombolo area and back along Trout Bay with its spectacular shoreline views. Runners will face ascents to view the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, traverse through lush hardwood forests, and enjoy cool breezes off of Lake Superior on exposed sections atop cliffs.
50K
50K • Start: 06:00:00 • Fee: $145.00
1/2 Marathon
21.1K • Start: 07:00:00 • Fee: $110.00
Marathon
42.2K • Start: 07:00:00 • Fee: $135.00
On race morning in July, participants can expect a temperate climate typical for this time of year near Munising: temperatures ranging from 14.1°C at their lowest to 22.1°C at their peak with an average temperature of 18.1°C. The trail conditions are firm and slightly soft underfoot, providing traction but some give in the terrain beneath runners' feet as they navigate through sections of single track, two-track trails, and narrow dirt roads. Humidity levels hover around 83%, making for a humid experience despite average winds at approximately 10.5 miles per hour, which should help to keep things moving.
Established by local trail runner Jeff Crumbaugh in 2000, Great Lakes Endurance has fostered a community of runners who enjoy the wild and spectacular trails found throughout Michigan's Upper Peninsula. This year marks an exciting transition as Aravaipa Running will operate all events starting with Grand Island Trail Runs on July 25th, promising to uphold the tradition while potentially introducing new elements that reflect their expertise in endurance racing.
The course winds through varied terrain, including single track paths and narrow dirt roads, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience for participants. Runners start at the Grand Island Boat Dock where they embark on an adventure around the island's perimeter trail. The route features ascents and descents over 300ft Jacobsville sandstone cliffs with breathtaking views of Lake Superior along its western shore.
Registration is available online through the link provided: https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=129770, where runners can choose from a variety of distances including the Marathon (42.2K), Half Marathon (21.1K), and 50K options at $135, $110, and $145 respectively. Bib pickup details will be communicated closer to race day but typically occurs in Munising on Friday before the event; participants should bring their confirmation email or printed registration receipt.
Participants are advised that the start location is Grand Island Boat Dock, with age requirements set at 18 years for all distances except for the Kids K which has its own separate category. Newcomers to this race will find it beneficial to familiarize themselves with trail running gear and footwear suitable for varied terrain before arriving in Munising.
The Grand Island Trail Runs on July 25th in Munising, Michigan offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and challenging terrain that makes it one of the premier endurance events in the region. Runners come from across the United States to experience the spectacular views and rugged trails this island has to offer.
