Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K 2026 — Empire, MI

Date
October 3, 2026
Location
Empire, MI
Venue
Empire Beach
Start Time
7:30 AM
Entry Fee
$35.00 – $135.00
Events
Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K
Includes
Unisex Lightweight Tri-Blend Hoodie
Register NowRegistration OpenOfficial Race Website

The Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K takes place at Empire Beach in Empire, Michigan on October 3, 2026. The event offers three distances: a 1-mile option, a half marathon, and a full 26.2-mile marathon. The race starts at 7:30 AM. Entry fees range from $35 to $135 depending on distance and registration timing. If you're traveling to compete, you'll want accommodations within reach of Empire Beach that can support an early morning departure for the start.

From the Race Organizer
Join us for a Scenic Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K Run/Walk in the Heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore! All races finish in Empire, MI. The Marathon and Half Marathon start at the Dune Climb, while the 5K begins at Empire Beach. Marathon Course: This out-and-back route takes runners past the iconic Dune Climb, Little Glen Lake, and through the charming village of Glen Arbor. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Manitou Islands and Sleeping Bear Dunes throughout the course. Half Marathon Course: Experience challenging hills and stunning scenery along the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail. 5K Course: A fun out-and-back route that finishes at the beautiful shores of Empire Beach. Held at the peak of fall color season, this tree-lined course offers a memorable experience for both runners and spectators alike. Come see why Good Morning America calls this area one of the most beautiful in the United States!

Hotels Near This Race

Find accommodation close to the start line in Empire, MI. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.

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Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K 2026 — Empire, MI

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for October 3.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Empire, MI. A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing. Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it, and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run 5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no additional coverage needed.

  • Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
  • Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
  • Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support
Get a Quote — Faye Travel Insurance

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Coverage terms vary by state and plan. Review policy details before purchase.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K 2026 — Empire, MI?

Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K 2026 — Empire, MI takes place on October 3, 2026. The race is held in Empire, Michigan.

Where is Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K 2026 — Empire, MI held?

Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K 2026 — Empire, MI is held at Empire Beach in Empire, Michigan.

Where can I find hotels near Sleeping Bear Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K 2026 — Empire, MI?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Empire. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.