HalfRuns
2026 - NorthShore Inline Marathon

2026 - NorthShore Inline Marathon

Duluth's NorthShore Inline Marathon offers a scenic half marathon through woods and tunnels.

Race Date

Sep 18, 2026

Location

Duluth, MN

Standout77

Quick facts

Date
Friday, September 18, 2026
Location
Duluth, Minnesota
Distance
Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 26.2 Miles, 39.3 Miles, 10K, 42K, 21K, 13.1 Miles
Course
Point to Point
Terrain
Road
USATF certified
Not listed
Finishers on record
6,759

Highlights

Good For

Destination WorthyPR Friendly

Atmosphere

Local CommunityParty FinishGreat Swag

Course

Scenic RouteShaded

The Experience

The NorthShore Inline Marathon in Duluth, Minnesota, offers a unique running experience alongside its namesake inline skating event. First run in 1996, this series now celebrates its 28th year, drawing thousands of athletes to the city.

The St. Luke's Half Marathon begins on the scenic North Shore highway, winding through the Northland woods. Runners will experience the unique sensation of passing through the tunnels of Interstate 35 before reaching the finish line alongside the iconic William A. Irvin.

This event has become a tradition for many, attracting participants from approximately 29 states. With a repeat-runner loyalty of about 31%, it's clear this race offers a memorable day of fitness and community, complemented by a festive atmosphere.

Race-provided description

Founded in 1996, the NorthShore Inline Marathon is dedicated to spreading the love of inline skating and overall fitness. Every year thousands of athletes of all ages come to Duluth to participate in this one-of-a-kind event. The NSIM offers a historic route, great views, and an even better community. It has been called one of the best inline marathons in the world by countless publications and has become a tradition for many. Come join us this year for our 28th year of skating.

Our event also includes our running division, which hosts two breathtaking runs. The first is the St. Luke's Half Marathon, one of Minnesota's most beautiful half marathons. This event begins on the scenic North Shore highway, with runners making their way through the Northland woods, passing through the tunnels of Interstate 35, and finishing alongside the iconic William A. Irvin. Our second race, the Finden Marketing Tunnel 10k, offers runners a unique experience of traversing the I-35 tunnels, covering 6 miles of interstate before finishing near the William A. Irvin. Lastly, our FinnSisu Ski Division is an emerging part of our race series. It offers roller skiers of all skill levels two options: a 42k and a 21k Rollerski. Participants can ski alongside over 2,000 inline skaters, immersing themselves in the event's lively atmosphere! Bring friends, make memories, and skate on!

Logistics

Race Day

Friday, September 18, 2026

Start Time

6:45 AM

Giveaway

T-Shirt (Unisex)

Start Location

350 Harbor Drive, Duluth, MN, 55802

Directions

Course Info

Course Type

Point to Point

Terrain

road

Scenery

Lake River, Rural

Surface

Paved

Difficulty

Ultra-Flat

Net Drop/km

0 m (Flat)

Separation

0.0%

Also Offers

26.2 Miles39.3 Miles10K42K21K13.1 Miles

Quality Score

Standout77
Methodology
Heritage20/20

22 years running

Size13/15

~499 finishers a year

Momentum5/5

growing or steady

Loyalty20/20

31% returning runners

Course & details3/15

6 timing sources

National draw9/10

runners from 29 states

Front-pack speed5/5

winner 0:38:39

Weather2/10

typical high 74°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (Low)

59°

Afternoon (High)

74°

Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively

0.1"

Precipitation

12 mph

Wind

77%

Humidity

Historical Finish Times

How 6,759 finishers actually crossed the line across 22 years.

Most recent

2025

Total finishers

6,759

Median time

1:18:25

Latest turnout

499

States

46

10%
25%
75%
90%
0:35p50 median ≈ 1:106:45

Turnout by year

20182025

'18'19'20'21'22'23'24'25
See full results

Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.

Race Photos

Frequently asked

When is the 2026 - NorthShore Inline Marathon?

The 2026 - NorthShore Inline Marathon is held on Friday, September 18, 2026, starting at 6:45 AM.

Where does the 2026 - NorthShore Inline Marathon take place?

It takes place in Duluth, Minnesota.

What distances does the 2026 - NorthShore Inline Marathon offer?

The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 26.2 Miles, 39.3 Miles, 10K, 42K, 21K, 13.1 Miles.

Is the 2026 - NorthShore Inline Marathon course flat and good for a PR?

The 2026 - NorthShore Inline Marathon is a ultra-flat, point to point course.

How many people run the 2026 - NorthShore Inline Marathon?

HalfRuns has finish records for 6,759 runners who have completed the 2026 - NorthShore Inline Marathon.

HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.

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