Canal Run
The Canal Run traces the Portage Lake Shipping Canal in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
Race Date
Jul 18, 2026
Location
Hancock, MI
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, July 18, 2026
- Location
- Hancock, Michigan
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 13.1 Miles, 10 Miles, 5 Miles, 2 Miles, 0.25 Miles, Run the U.P. Challenge
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Canal Run unfolds along the scenic Portage Lake Shipping Canal in Hancock, Michigan. This event caters to a wide range of participants, offering not only a half marathon but also 10-mile, 5-mile, and 2-mile races, plus adaptive categories. Since its inception in 2011, the race has become a fixture, demonstrating steady growth and a commitment to the community.
Beyond the competition, the Canal Run embodies a spirit of giving back. The organizing committee has channeled over $30,000 to local non-profits through its "Canal Run Gives Back" program, making it a race that benefits both runners and the surrounding area. The event provides a T-shirt as a giveaway, with a focus on community support and accessible racing.
Race-provided description
Following the rolling hills along the Portage Lake Shipping Canal, the Canal Run offers four distances for runners and walkers of all levels, including a half marathon, 10-mile run, 10-mile walk, five-mile run, five-mile walk and two-mile fun run/walk. The Canal Run also features adaptive races for wheelchair or blade participants! Official events include: Half MarathonBob Olson 10 Mile Run5 Mile Run10 Mile Walk5 Mile Walk2 Mile Fun Run/WalkKid's DashAdaptive categories for the Half, 10 Mile and 2 Mile distances The Canal Run is self-sustaining, bringing in enough money in registration fees and sponsorships to cover all the costs. Since 2011, the organizing committee has been able to donate over $30,000 to area non-profit organizations as part of its Canal Run Gives Back program.
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, July 18, 2026
Start Time
7:30 AM
Giveaway
T-Shirt
Start Location
400 Quincy St, Hancock, MI, 49930
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Lake River
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Quality Score
first year
no finisher counts yet
small race — neutral
needs a few years of results
3 timing sources
no finisher data yet
no winner time yet
typical high 75°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
59°
Afternoon (High)
75°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.2"
Precipitation
10 mph
Wind
72%
Humidity
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Canal Run?
The Canal Run is held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, starting at 7:30 AM.
Where does the Canal Run take place?
It takes place in Hancock, Michigan.
What distances does the Canal Run offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 13.1 Miles, 10 Miles, 5 Miles, 2 Miles, 0.25 Miles, Run the U.P. Challenge.
Is the Canal Run course flat and good for a PR?
The Canal Run is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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