Leading Ladies Marathon

SpearfishSouth DakotaUnited States

Next race

Sunday, 6 June 2027

7:00 am start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Scenic road

Elevation

Rolling · 150 m gain

150 m climbing

Race profile

Overview

The Leading Ladies Marathon draws approximately 125 finishers each June on a scenic road in Spearfish, United States. Spearfish's Leading Ladies Marathon is a popular June Black Hills race with a rolling scenic course. The course follows Spearfish Canyon connectors and northern Black Hills scenic roads. Rolling terrain with moderate climbs shapes the middle miles.

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

Typical participants: Approximately 125 finishers

Weather: Mild summer
16–21°C · humidity 45–65%
Marathon weather guide →

Course & terrain

Leading Ladies Marathon course

Course route details and elevation profile for race-week planning.

The Leading Ladies Marathon is a rolling scenic road course with moderate climbs. Starts and finishes in Spearfish on a women's-focused Black Hills weekend. The course follows Spearfish Canyon connectors and northern Black Hills scenic roads. Rolling terrain with moderate climbs.

Registration

Leading Ladies Marathon entry requirements

Leading Ladies Marathon is typically held in June. Registration opens through https://www.leadingladiesmarathon.com/ and may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Leading Ladies Marathon elevation profile?: The Leading Ladies Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
How long is the Leading Ladies Marathon?: The Leading Ladies Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. The Leading Ladies Marathon is a scenic road through Spearfish.
What time does the Leading Ladies Marathon start?: The 2027 Leading Ladies Marathon starts at 7:00 am local time on Sunday, 6 June 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Where does the Leading Ladies Marathon start and finish?: Starts and finishes in Spearfish on a women's-focused Black Hills weekend. Updated each year.
When is the Leading Ladies Marathon and how do I register?: Leading Ladies Marathon is typically held in June. Registration opens may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.
Is the Leading Ladies Marathon course flat?: The course includes rolling with moderate climbs. Study the official course profile at before setting pace targets.
What landmarks does the Leading Ladies Marathon pass?: The route tours Spearfish Canyon connectors and northern Black Hills roads.
What weather should runners expect at Leading Ladies Marathon?: Mild June mornings in Spearfish Canyon country.

Last updated 11 October 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.

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Planning guides

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Leading Ladies Marathon

Overview

Leading Ladies Marathon course

Leading Ladies Marathon entry requirements

Leading Ladies Marathon travel

Frequently Asked Questions

Leading Ladies Marathon links

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