
Running the Rapids Half Marathon and 5K
Running the Rapids offers scenic lake views and small-town charm.
Race Date
Aug 22, 2026
Location
Cohasset, MN
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, August 22, 2026
- Location
- Cohasset, Minnesota
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 5K, Relay
- Course
- Point to Point
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Yes
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Running the Rapids Half Marathon weaves through the scenic roadways and paths of Cohasset and Grand Rapids, Minnesota. The course takes runners around Little Jay Gould Lake, down a peaceful trail, and past Horseshoe Lake, offering a tour of the region's lakes and forests. With about 100 finishers in recent years, this is an intimate event where a third of runners return year after year.
The flat, fast course is USATF certified and net downhill, making it a PR-friendly option. Runners from six states travel to this growing race, which now celebrates its eighth edition. The atmosphere is low-key and community-driven, with ample parking and a post-race beverage from Klockow Brewing Company. Despite being a bit of a drive from the Twin Cities, the area offers plenty of hotels and restaurants for a weekend getaway.
The event includes a half marathon, relay, and 5K, with a generous 3.5-hour time limit that welcomes beginners. All participants receive a medal, shirt, and swag bag. With a perfect 5.0 scenery rating from past runners, this hidden gem delivers a memorable run through Minnesota's Northwoods.
Race-provided description
Dare to challenge yourself with the Running the Rapids Half Marathon and 5K! Wind your way through this beautiful course that runs through scenic roadways and paths of Cohasset and Grand Rapids. You will see lakes, trees, parks and everything in between. The route will first take you around beautiful Little Jay Gould lake, down a scenic trail and roadway, and finally around Horseshoe Lake on your way to the finish. Bring some running shoes and a positive attitude to this race, and we will make sure to cheer you all the way to the finish! All half marathon, half marathon relay and 5K participants will receive an official medal, swag bag, race shirt and post-race beverage, courtesy of Klockow Brewing Company! Events Half Marathon | Start time: 7:00AM In an effort to provide the safest race experience for our participants, the race course will be supported for 3.5 hours (16:00/mile pace). Anyone remaining on the course past the time limit will be required to use the sidewalks and follow all pedestrian/traffic laws.
Half Marathon Relay| Start time: 7:00AM The half marathon relay consists of TWO runners. The first runner will begin at the start line at Portage Park, while the second runner will hop on a bus and be transported to the exchange zone. The exchange zone will be at approximately the half way point of the half marathon. At the exchange zone the runners will tag off their partner. The second runner will complete the second half of the 13.1 distance while the first runner takes the bus to the finish line to cheer on other runners and enjoy the post race activities. In an effort to provide the safest race experience for our participants, the race course will be supported for 3.5 hours (16:00/mile pace). Anyone remaining on the course past the time limit will be required to use the sidewalks and follow all pedestrian/traffic laws.
5K | Start time: 7:30AM Details All races will start and finish at Portage Park, 25570 Katherine Ave, Cohasset, MN 55721. All races will be chip-timed. Headphones are permitted to be worn by participants. Strollers will not be permitted on the race course.
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, August 22, 2026
Start Time
7:00 AM
Giveaway
Race shirt
Start Location
25570 Katherine Avenue, Cohasset, MN, 55721
Course Info
USATF CertifiedCourse Type
Point to Point
Terrain
road
Scenery
Lake River, Forest
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
-0.10 m
Separation
0.3%
Also Offers
USATF Certified Course
MN19044RR · Running The Rapids Half Marathon
Relatively flat with minimal net elevation change. Loop course — start and finish are close together.
Course Map
Quality Score
Standout718 years running
~98 finishers a year
growing or steady
31% returning runners
USATF certified · 5 timing sources
runners from 6 states
winner 1:19:43
typical high 76°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
61°
Afternoon (High)
76°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.1"
Precipitation
11 mph
Wind
77%
Humidity
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Running the Rapids Half Marathon and 5K?
The Running the Rapids Half Marathon and 5K is held on Saturday, August 22, 2026, starting at 7:00 AM.
Where does the Running the Rapids Half Marathon and 5K take place?
It takes place in Cohasset, Minnesota.
What distances does the Running the Rapids Half Marathon and 5K offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 5K, Relay.
Is the Running the Rapids Half Marathon and 5K course flat and good for a PR?
The Running the Rapids Half Marathon and 5K is a ultra-flat, point to point course. The course is USATF-certified, so finish times can be used for qualifying.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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