Bismarck Marathon

Bismarck Marathon

Bismarck, North Dakota, United States

Overview

The Bismarck Marathon draws approximately 206 finishers each September on an urban road in Bismarck, United States. North Dakota's longest-running marathon draws runners from across the Midwest to the capital region each September. The course tours Missouri River trails, state capital neighborhoods, and Bismarck–Mandan riverfront roads. Rolling terrain with moderate climbs shapes the middle miles.

Bismarck Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.

Bismarck Marathon 2026 race day

The next Bismarck Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 6 September 2026 with a 7:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 150 m of climbing on a rolling with moderate climbs layout.

Bismarck Marathon course route

The Bismarck Marathon is a rolling urban road course with moderate climbs. Starts and finishes in the Bismarck–Mandan area on a certified capital-city loop. The course tours Missouri River trails, state capital neighborhoods, and Bismarck–Mandan riverfront roads. Rolling terrain with moderate climbs.

Bismarck Marathon elevation profile

The Bismarck Marathon course is rolling with moderate climbs over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 150 metres of climbing and 140 metres of descent, with a net climb of 10 metres from start to finish.

Entry requirements

Bismarck Marathon is typically held in September. Registration opens through https://thebismarckmarathon.com/ and may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bismarck Marathon elevation profile?
The Bismarck Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling with moderate climbs, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
How long is the Bismarck Marathon?
The Bismarck Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. The Bismarck Marathon is a urban road through Bismarck.
What time does the Bismarck Marathon start?
The 2026 Bismarck Marathon starts at 7:00 am local time on Sunday, 6 September 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on thebismarckmarathon.com/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Where does the Bismarck Marathon start and finish?
Starts and finishes in the Bismarck–Mandan area on a certified capital-city loop. Updated course maps are published at https://thebismarckmarathon.com/ each year.
When is the Bismarck Marathon and how do I register?
Bismarck Marathon is typically held in September. Registration opens through https://thebismarckmarathon.com/ and may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.
Is the Bismarck Marathon course flat?
The course includes rolling with moderate climbs. Study the official course profile at https://thebismarckmarathon.com/ before setting pace targets.
What landmarks does the Bismarck Marathon pass?
The route follows Missouri River trails and Bismarck–Mandan capital-city neighborhoods.
What weather should runners expect at Bismarck Marathon?
Cool September mornings along the Missouri River with comfortable fall racing weather.

Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.

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