Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Dunes during our scenic Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K Run/Walk. This breathtaking event takes place amidst the vibrant fall foliage, offering runners an unforgettable journey through nature's most picturesque landscapes. The marathon and half marathon routes begin at the iconic Dune Climb, where participants are greeted by towering sand dunes before embarking on a course that winds through lush forests and along tranquil lakeshores. The 5K run/walk starts from the serene Empire Beach, providing runners with an idyllic setting to enjoy the crisp autumn air and panoramic views of Lake Michigan. As you navigate this challenging yet rewarding terrain, experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Spectators line the course, cheering on participants as they traverse trails lined with vibrant fall colors. The event culminates in the charming town of Empire, where runners and visitors alike can revel in the area’s natural splendor. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to be part of an extraordinary race that celebrates both athletic achievement and the stunning beauty of Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Dunes region. Bragging rights await those who dare to take on one of the most breathtaking courses in the country, as featured by Good Morning America. Join us for a day filled with scenic vistas, challenging routes, and memorable moments.
Races Offered
5km
Oct 03, 2026
straighten
Distance —
5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
44 days remaining
sell
$50.16
Full Marathon
Oct 03, 2026
straighten
Distance —
42.2K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
44 days remaining
sell
$110.59
Half Marathon
Oct 03, 2026
straighten
Distance —
21.1K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
44 days remaining
sell
$100.33
Marathon
Oct 03, 2026
straighten
Distance —
42.2K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
44 days remaining
sell
$110.59
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for October in Empire.
thermostatTemperature
0.4° / 13.6°
wb_sunnyFeels like
-4.4° / 8.8°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
10h 1m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
1.0 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
0.5 cm
air
Avg wind speed
11.4 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (4.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
55.7%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:14
nightlight
Sunset
18:21
About Empire
Learn more about the host city, Empire.
An empire is a realm controlled by a monarch or other official and divided between a dominant center and subordinate peripheries. The center of the empire has political control over the peripheries. Within an empire, different populations may have different sets of rights and may be governed differently. The word "empire" derives from the Roman concept of Imperium. Narrowly defined, an empire is a sovereign state that exercises control over multiple distinct territories; however, not all states with aggregate territory under the rule of supreme authorities are called "empires". Not all self-described empires have been accepted as such by contemporaries and historians.
