The Miner 49er endurance runs return to Dubuque, Iowa on November 7th, challenging runners with scenic trails through the Mines of Spain park. This event features a rigorous course that winds along single-track and double-trail paths, offering panoramic views of the historic Julien Dubuque Monument and Horseshoe Bluff while crossing over the Mississippi River. Participants will face terrain that includes stone steps, stream crossings, and rocky sections.
50K 50K • Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: $70.00
25K 25K • Start: 08:30:00 • Fee: $50.00
On race morning in early November, runners can expect to encounter a firm yet slightly soft trail surface as they navigate the challenging course layout. The Mines of Spain park provides an idyllic setting for endurance athletes with its natural beauty and historical landmarks. Temperatures typically hover around 6°C (43°F) during this time, with low humidity levels and mild winds. The Miner 49er has been a cornerstone event in Dubuque since 2018, attracting runners from across the region who are drawn to the unique challenge of its out-and-back course. The race supports local conservation efforts aimed at preserving the Mines of Spain park’s natural beauty for future generations. Each year sees an increase in participation as more athletes discover the allure and difficulty of this event. The Miner 49er offers two challenging distances: a grueling 50K route with approximately 4,400 feet of elevation gain and a slightly less daunting but still rigorous 25K course featuring around 2,200 feet in ascent. Both courses are marked with aid stations stocked with essential nutrition for ultra-distance runners. Registration is available online at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=137954 until the race day or until capacity is reached. Fees start at $50 for the 25K distance and rise to $70 for the 50K option, with no refunds once registration closes. Bib pickup will occur on November 6th from 6 pm to 7:30 pm and again on race day morning from 7 am until 7:45 am at the EB Lyons Interpretive Center located at 8991 Bellevue Heights Rd. Runners should head to the start line at 8991 Bellevue Heights Road, where they will find clear directions for navigating both courses. The event is open to all runners aged 16 and older on race day, with no same-day registration permitted after packet pickup deadlines have passed. The Miner 49er endurance runs in Dubuque, Iowa, on November 7th offers a unique blend of natural beauty and physical challenge that draws participants year after year for its scenic trails and rigorous course layout.
Races Offered
50K
Nov 07, 2026
straighten
Distance —
50K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$70.00
25K
Nov 07, 2026
straighten
Distance —
25K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:30
sell
$50.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for November in Dubuque.
thermostatTemperature
1.0° / 9.0°
wb_sunnyFeels like
-3.5° / 4.6°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
6h 21m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
2.0 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
0.3 cm
air
Avg wind speed
13.4 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Low (2.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
71.3%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:54
nightlight
Sunset
17:40
About Dubuque
Learn more about the host city, Dubuque.
Dubuque, founded in 1833, is the oldest city in Iowa. A port on the upper Mississippi River, it is situated along scenic bluffs facing the river, and has its roots in a mining and trading settlement established in the area by Quebec-born entrepreneur Julien Dubuque in 1788. The city's population is 57,686, and the estimated population of the Dubuque metropolitan area is 93,072.
