From Des Moines to Shenandoah to Sioux City, and more.
The state’s diverse landscape offers runners an unexpected blend of urban excitement and rural serenity, where trails wind through golden cornfields and historic river towns welcome runners with legendary hometown hospitality.
Did you know that Iowa features over 2,000 miles of converted railroad trails, including the historic Wabash Trace Nature Trail? Let me guide you through the best marathons in Iowa for 2025.
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What are the Best Marathons in Iowa?
Here are the best marathons in Iowa:
Wabash Trace Nature Marathon
Shenandoah | Sep 14, 2024
Course Type: Rolling Hills
Elevation Gain: 667 feet (203m)
Participants: 63 Finishers
Price: $70-$100
Nestled in the dramatic landscape of western Iowa’s Loess Hills marathons, the Wabash Trace Nature Marathon offers runners a journey through time along Iowa’s longest converted railway trail. This point-to-point adventure guides participants through a cathedral of trees, where dappled sunlight filters through the canopy and native prairie grasses wave in the morning breeze. The course traverses 63 original railroad bridges, each telling a story of Iowa’s transportation heritage, while offering glimpses of hidden wetlands and limestone outcroppings that characterize this unique geological region. As runners make their way through this historic route running experience, they’re treated to an ever-changing backdrop of prairie preserves and rural communities that embody the essence of heartland running events.
Des Moines Marathon
Des Moines | Oct 19, 2025
Course Type: Rolling Hills
Elevation Gain: 850 feet (259m)
Participants: 1,447 Finishers
Price: $109-$154
The crown jewel of Iowa marathon events, the IMT Des Moines Marathon transforms the capital city into a runner’s paradise each October. The course weaves through the heart of urban marathon routes, showcasing the city’s architectural heritage as runners pass the gleaming gold dome of the Capitol building. What sets this race apart is its masterful blend of urban excitement and natural beauty – participants cross five bridges spanning the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers, each offering unique views of the Des Moines skyline. The route guides runners through the mature tree canopy of Water Works Park, where autumn maples create a tunnel of crimson and gold, before culminating in an electric finish at the Court Avenue District, where thousands of spectators create an unforgettable race day atmosphere.
Des Moines St. Paddy’s Day Marathon
Des Moines | Mar 15, 2025
Course Type: Rolling Hills
Participants: 202 Finishers
Price: $114.99-$145.13
Spring marathon events take on a festive flair at the Des Moines St. Paddy’s Day Marathon, where Celtic tradition meets Midwest charm. This early-season challenge winds through streets adorned with shamrocks, testing runners’ winter training tips as they navigate the rolling hills of Water Works Park. The course showcases the emerald beauty of Gray’s Lake Park, where early spring blooms peek through the morning frost, creating a magical backdrop for this unique seasonal running preparation experience. The race exemplifies Iowa running weather at its most dynamic, requiring participants to master spring racing gear choices as temperatures can swing dramatically during this transitional season.
Mainly Marathons Prairie Series Day 5
Sioux City | May 13, 2025
Course Type: Fast and Flat
Elevation Gain: 288 feet (88m)
Price: $110-$155
The Prairie Series transforms corn country marathons into an intimate running experience that celebrates the raw beauty of Iowa’s native landscape. This unique format, part of the broader midwest marathon training circuit, offers runners a chance to experience the endless horizon of prairie trail running in its purest form. The looped course winds through agricultural landscape runs where butterflies dance among native wildflowers, and the morning sun casts long shadows across the gently rolling terrain. What makes this event special is its small-town aid stations and the close-knit community of runners who share the journey together.
Ironhorse Races
Riceville | May 3, 2025
Course Type: Rolling Hills
Participants: 41 Finishers
Price: $69.90-$95.34
The IronHorse Marathon, held in the quaint town of Riceville, Iowa, offers a unique experience for runners looking to escape the hustle of big-city races. Taking place on the Wapsi-Great Western Line (WGWL) Trail, this event spans the scenic Rails-to-Trails Northern Branch, a recreational path connecting Iowa and Minnesota. Marathoners can even cross state lines, experiencing both the Hawkeye and North Star states during their journey. This race is a throwback to simpler times, with a focus on community and nature over flashy extras. The course is primarily flat, with a notable long, gradual incline on a gravel road, which can be surprisingly challenging, especially in the rain or when facing strong winds. Runners are treated to a picturesque landscape, passing through oak savannas, farmland, wetlands, and even glimpses of Amish farms. The trail winds through quiet parks, providing a meditative running experience that helps the miles drift by.
Weather and Seasonal Considerations
Success in Iowa marathons requires mastering midwest marathon training techniques that account for the state’s diverse climate conditions. Spring events like the St. Paddy’s Day Marathon demand expertise in humidity running techniques, while the autumn Des Moines Marathon showcases ideal conditions for marathon recovery midwest. Runners should prepare for prairie wind running, which can be particularly challenging during exposed sections of these courses. Seasonal running preparation is crucial, with summer hydration strategies and winter training tips playing vital roles in race day success.
Community and Culture
What truly sets Iowa marathon events apart is the incredible sense of community that surrounds each race. Local running communities turn out in force to support runners, with marathon training groups offering pre-race guidance and course insights. Post-race celebrations feature hometown hospitality at its finest, complete with local cuisine and craft beer that make every finish line feel like a homecoming. From pasta dinner events to race day preparation support, the running clubs and volunteers create an atmosphere that embodies the warmest traditions of Midwest racing.
Conclusion
From the urban energy of Des Moines to the serene wilderness of the Wabash Trace, Iowa’s marathons offer an unexpected blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and heartland hospitality. Each race provides a unique window into the soul of the American Midwest, where every mile tells a story of the land and its people. Whether you’re seeking Boston qualifier courses or simply wanting to experience the magic of marathon photography spots along these historic routes, Iowa’s 2025 marathon calendar promises unforgettable running experiences. As you plan your race season, remember that these courses offer more than just a chance to log miles – they’re journeys through the heart of America, where golden cornfields meet urban skylines and railroad history merges with natural prairie. See you at the starting line!
Row Brown is the founder of Refresh Row. He is a keen marathon runner, his favorite being the London Marathon. He’s now set himself the mission of Running the Entire Length of Spain, which is scheduled for late 2024.
