Bismarck Marathon
The Bismarck Marathon offers a flat, fast course through North Dakota's capital city.
Race Date
Sep 19, 2026
Location
Bismarck, ND
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, September 19, 2026
- Location
- Bismarck, North Dakota
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 26.2M, 10K, 5K run | 26.2M relay
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Yes
- Finishers on record
- 6,893
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Bismarck Marathon, first run in 2001 and now in its 25th year, is a well-established fixture in North Dakota's capital city. It has grown into a significant event, drawing approximately 457 finishers in recent years, with a loyal following of about 24% returning annually. Runners travel from around 38 states to participate, underscoring its appeal as a destination race.
The course is USATF-certified and designed for speed. With minimal elevation change and a net drop of 0.00 m/km, it presents a flat and fast profile, making it an attractive option for those chasing personal bests. The race is held in typical late September weather, with average temperatures ranging from 54–73°F, offering generally favorable conditions for runners.
Beyond the half marathon, the event also includes a full marathon, 10K, and 5K, along with a relay option. The Bismarck Marathon provides a straightforward, competitive racing experience, complemented by a post-race pub crawl and awards.
Race-provided description
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Course Info
USATF CertifiedCourse Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Urban
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
USATF Certified Course
ND23010TRR · 2023 Bismarck Half Marathon
Relatively flat with minimal net elevation change. Loop course — start and finish are close together.
Quality Score
Runner Favorite8521 years running
~428 finishers a year
growing or steady
24% returning runners
USATF certified · 4 timing sources · 7 photos
runners from 38 states
winner 1:16:50
typical high 73°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
54°
Afternoon (High)
73°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.1"
Precipitation
13 mph
Wind
66%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 6,893 finishers actually crossed the line across 21 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
6,893
Median time
2:11:41
Latest turnout
457
States
48
Turnout by year
2017–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Bismarck Marathon?
The Bismarck Marathon is held on Saturday, September 19, 2026.
Where does the Bismarck Marathon take place?
It takes place in Bismarck, North Dakota.
What distances does the Bismarck Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 26.2M, 10K, 5K run | 26.2M relay.
Is the Bismarck Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The Bismarck Marathon is a ultra-flat, loop course course. The course is USATF-certified, so finish times can be used for qualifying.
How many people run the Bismarck Marathon?
HalfRuns has finish records for 6,893 runners who have completed the Bismarck Marathon.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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