EMC DAM to DSM

EMC DAM to DSM

Race Date

May 30, 2026

Location

Polk City, IA

The Experience

Iowa's Greatest Running Tradition. Since 1980, more than 135,000 runners have made running from the quiet and calm of the Saylorville Dam to the heat and high-rises of downtown Des Moines one of the greatest running traditions in central Iowa. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a first-timer, or a diehard this iconic running event is for you.  SAYLORVILLE DAM There is something unparalleled about standing on top of the Saylorville Dam and looking out at the high-rise buildings on the horizon knowing that you will conquer the distance in between. After crossing the dam athletes will travel south through the fields and rural beauty of Polk County.   DOWNTOWN DES MOINES Runners traverse I-35 at the Morningstar bridge and continue into the Northside Neighborhoods, along the Des Moines River at Birdland Park and enter into Downtown Des Moines.  Athletes will finish their half-marathon journey by crossing the Des Moines River and passing the World Food Prize Building. With the finish line behind you, there's a huge party awaiting you at Cowles Commons across from The Des Moines Civic Center.

Logistics

Race Day

Saturday, May 30, 2026

Start Time

7:00 AM

Giveaway

Official Race T-Shirt

Start Location

8250 Horseshoe Road, Polk City, IA, 50309

Directions

Course Info

USATF Certified

Course Type

Loop Course

Terrain

road

Difficulty

Ultra-Flat

Net Drop/km

+1.80 m

Separation

68.9%

Also Offers

13.1 Miles

USATF Certified Course

IA19002MF · Expires 2029 · Dam to DSM

Net uphill grade — expect a more challenging race. Point-to-point course layout.

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (Low)

55°

Afternoon (High)

76°

Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively

0.1"

Precipitation

13 mph

Wind

64%

Humidity

Explore More Journeys

Can't make it to Polk City? Discover other experiences that match your running style.

Search All Races

Never miss
another
finish line.

Join our community of 350K+ half marathon runners. Get notified about new races, registration opens, and early bird pricing across all 50 states.

Privacy focused. Unsubscribe anytime.