Marquette Trail 50

The Marquette Trail 50 Ultramarathon Race Weekend returns to Marquette, Michigan on August 14th through the 15th of 2026. This endurance event features two challenging distances: a 50K and a 50M course, both traversing rugged terrain near Lake Superior's shores in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The race weekend kicks off with a one-mile run for kids on Friday evening at the Forestville Noquemanon Trailhead.
On race morning, runners gather before dawn along Marquette's scenic trails, preparing to tackle steep climbs and technical sections of single-track trail that wind through four peaks: Sugarloaf, Top-of-the-World, Bareback, and Hogback. The terrain is marked by significant elevation changes and rocky paths, offering panoramic views across Lake Superior. Participants must navigate moderate to difficult conditions throughout the weekend.
The Marquette Trail 50 has been a tradition in Michigan since its inception, attracting ultrarunners from around the country who appreciate the unique challenge of running through some of the most beautiful terrain in the Upper Peninsula. The event supports local trail maintenance and conservation efforts, enhancing the experience for both participants and future visitors.
The course itself is characterized by its single-track trails that lead runners up and down four distinct peaks. Start times are scheduled early morning on Saturday at 5:30 AM for the longer distances, allowing ample daylight to complete the challenging routes within set time limits of twelve hours for the 50K and fifteen hours for the 50M distance. Aid stations provide essential hydration and nutrition along the way.
Weather conditions in August typically feature an average temperature range between 18.3°C (64.9°F) and a minimum of around 13.4°C (56.1°F), with occasional rainfall amounting to about 2.3mm, contributing to trail surfaces that are firm yet slightly soft underfoot. Wind speeds can reach up to an average of 11.1 km/h, making for varied conditions throughout the race weekend.
The Marquette Trail 50 offers a range of distances including the challenging 80.5K (50M) and 50K routes alongside a one-mile trail run for children on Friday evening. Participants can register online at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=131671 from November 28, 2025, until August 07, 2026, or when capacity is reached.
Registration details require that runners are aware of the non-refundable and non-transferable nature of their entry fees. Bib pick-up will take place at Noquemanon Trail Network - Forestville Trailhead on Friday evening from 4:30 PM to 5:15 PM, where participants must show a government-issued photo ID matching the name used for registration.
First-time runners should be prepared with proper footwear and attire suitable for varying trail conditions. The race weekend concludes on Sunday morning after the final finishers complete their distances in Marquette, Michigan.
The Marquette Trail 50 Ultramarathon Race Weekend is an event not to miss for ultrarunners seeking a challenging course through scenic Upper Peninsula trails near Lake Superior in Marquette, Michigan from August 14th-15th.