From St. Louis to Kansas City to St. Charles to Springfield, and more.
No matter your pace, experience level, or race-day goals, Missouri offers a marathon experience that fits the bill.
Whether you’re drawn to the historical landmarks of Kansas City and St. Louis, the small-town charm of St. Charles, or the scenic riverside courses in Cape Girardeau, there’s a race waiting for you.
With a variety of unique perks like post-race festivals and a dedicated running community, Missouri’s marathon scene continues to grow each year.
As you plan your next big race, consider how the state’s geography, seasonality, and local character can shape your experience.
Lace up, train smart, and get ready to take on one of Missouri’s best marathons.
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What are the Best Marathons in Missouri?
Greater St. Louis Marathon
St. Louis | Apr 26, 2025
Course Type: Rolling Hills
Elevation Gain: 455 feet (138m)
Participants: 1,191 Finishers
Price: $120-$150
One of the most defining moments of the Greater St. Louis Marathon is its dramatic final stretch – a challenge that will test your determination to the very end. As you push past the 26-mile mark, a steep, unforgiving climb in the last 100 yards stands between you and the finish line. After conquering the course’s rolling hills, weaving through historic neighborhoods, and passing under the iconic Gateway Arch, this final ascent demands every last ounce of strength. Spectators line the barriers, shouting encouragement as you dig deep, legs burning, lungs desperate for air. Just beyond the crest, CITYPARK awaits, buzzing with energy and the promise of celebration. The moment you cross that finish line, exhaustion finally turns to triumph (and a bit of relief!).
Kansas City Marathon
Kansas City | Oct 18, 2025
Course Type: Hilly
Elevation Gain: 1200 feet (365m)
Participants: 1,292 Finishers
Price: $110-$150
Kansas City is a city of contrasts, and its marathon delivers a course that keeps you on your toes – literally. From the moment you take off near the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, you’re in for a dynamic mix of scenery, history, and challenging elevation changes. One minute, you’re weaving through the electric energy of Westport, where local bars and coffee shops spill over with cheering spectators. The next, you’re pushing through the storied 18th & Vine Jazz District, where the echoes of music legends seem to hum through the streets. But it’s the climb up Wyandotte Street around mile 3.5 that might just take your breath away – if the hill doesn’t, the sunrise reflecting off the downtown skyline certainly will.
MO’ Cowbell Marathon
St. Charles | Oct 5, 2025
Course Type: Mostly Flat
Participants: 458 Finishers
Price: $87-$128
St. Charles, Missouri, might be steeped in history, but the MO’ Cowbell Marathon proves that it doesn’t take itself too seriously. From the moment you pick up your race packet – complete with a commemorative cowbell – you know you’re in for something special. The race kicks off along the Missouri River, where Lewis and Clark once set out on their famous expedition, but your journey is fueled by a different kind of motivation: family fun, and a whole lot of cowbells. The first half of the course is full of energy as you make your way through lively neighborhoods and the buzzing streets of New Town, where locals come out in force to cheer. But it’s the second half that tests your grit, as you hit the scenic Katy Trail for a quieter, out-and-back stretch with wide-open views of the Missouri River. While it’s flat and fast, the mental game kicks in – but don’t worry, volunteers and spectators are ready to bring the noise, ringing their cowbells like your biggest fans. And then there’s Chuck the Cow, the race’s abs-clad, sneaker-wearing mascot, proving that a little humor can go a long way when the miles start to add up. Whether you’re a first-time runner, a Boston hopeful, or just here for the swag (hello, plush-lined hoodie!), MO’ Cowbell delivers a race experience that’s as quirky as it is rewarding. Because let’s be honest – everything is better with more cowbell.
Running From Yeti Springfield
Springfield | Feb 22, 2025
Course Type: Rolling Hills
Participants: 71 Finishers
Price: $107.50
If you’re looking for a race with a little adventure and a lot of fun, Running From Yeti Springfield is the perfect winter challenge! This quirky event brings runners, walkers, and even cartwheelers together to “outrun” Freddie the Yeti, their lovable, larger-than-life mascot. You’ll cruise through the scenic course decked out in white to match Freddie, earning awesome swag like comfy hoodies and bonus gear along the way. After the race, warm up with tasty treats, dance to some frosty tunes, and celebrate with a community that knows how to embrace the chilly fun. Plus, your participation helps support Easterseals Midwest, making this event about more than just running—it’s about making a difference while having an unforgettable time!
Muddy River Marathon
Cape Girardeau | May 3, 2025
Course Type: Rolling Hills
Elevation Gain: 832 feet (253m)
Participants: 90 Finishers
Price: $90-$110
The Muddy River Marathon is a showcase of Cape Girardeau, from the iconic Bill Emerson Bridge to the artistic Missouri Wall of Fame Mural at the finish, every mile offers a glimpse into the city’s character. The relatively flat route, weaving through roadways and paved trails, provides a great opportunity to chase a Boston Qualifier. And with a 6 a.m. marathon start, runners get a head start on the day before the Missouri sun heats up. The event has given over $70,000 to local nonprofits, making every step count toward improving community health. Between generous race swag, a well-organized experience, and a post-race celebration that connects runners with local businesses, the Muddy River Marathon is a hidden gem in the Midwest race scene.
How Missouri’s Geography Shapes Its Marathons
Missouri’s diverse geography plays a major role in the experience of running a marathon in the state. Whether you’re racing through urban streets, rolling farmland, or along historic riverbanks, the landscape presents unique challenges and rewards for runners of all levels.
1. Hills vs. Flatland: Course Elevation Matters
- Kansas City and St. Louis marathons are known for their rolling terrain, with steady inclines and declines that can test endurance, particularly in the later miles.
- Muddy River Marathon and MO’ Cowbell Marathon offer flatter courses, ideal for those chasing a personal best or a Boston qualifying time.
- Some races feature mixed terrain—MO’ Cowbell, for example, includes both paved roads and gravel sections along the Katy Trail, requiring runners to adjust their pace and footing accordingly.
2. The Influence of the Mississippi & Missouri Rivers
- Several marathons in Missouri run along or cross major rivers, offering scenic views and historically significant routes.
- Muddy River Marathon takes runners through Cape Girardeau, highlighting the town’s deep connection to the Mississippi River with a finish along the Missouri Wall of Fame Mural.
- Mississippi River Marathon actually begins in Arkansas before crossing into Mississippi, offering a rare chance to run a marathon that spans two states.
3. Urban vs. Rural Racing Experiences
- Garmin Kansas City Marathon and Greater St. Louis Marathon showcase their respective cityscapes, featuring iconic landmarks like the World War I Museum and the Gateway Arch National Park.
- Rural races, like MO’ Cowbell Marathon, focus on small-town charm and community support rather than big crowds, with much of the race taking place on scenic country roads.
- Some courses, like Muddy River Marathon, offer a mix of urban and rural landscapes, transitioning from city streets to more open, natural settings.
Understanding Missouri’s geography can help runners prepare for elevation changes, weather patterns, and the type of race-day experience they want—whether that’s a city tour, a riverside route, or a peaceful countryside challenge.
Missouri’s Marathon Season: When to Race for the Best Conditions
Choosing the right marathon often comes down to timing. Missouri’s marathon season spans from winter to late fall, with each season bringing different weather conditions that can impact race performance.
1. Spring (March–May): Unpredictable but Popular
- Many of Missouri’s marathons take place in the spring, offering cool temperatures but also the potential for sudden weather shifts.
- Pros: Mild mornings, ideal for long-distance running; scenic spring blooms along rural and city courses.
- Cons: High variability—some years see perfect conditions, while others bring wind, rain, or unseasonable heat.
- Best bets: Muddy River Marathon (May), Running From Yeti (February)
2. Summer (June–August): Limited Options Due to Heat
- With Missouri’s intense summer heat and humidity, very few marathons are scheduled during this season.
- Some smaller races offer early morning or trail-based options, but long-distance running events are rare.
- Best bet: Consider a shorter distance or a trail race with plenty of shade.
3. Fall (September–November): Prime Racing Season
- The most popular time for marathons in Missouri, with many of the state’s largest events held during these months.
- Pros: Cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and more predictable conditions.
- Cons: Early fall races can still be warm, and mid-November events risk cold, wet weather.
- Best bets: MO’ Cowbell Marathon (October), Garmin Kansas City Marathon (October), Greater St. Louis Marathon (April–May, varies by year)
4. Winter (December–February): Niche and Novelty Races
- Missouri’s winters can be unpredictable, but some races embrace the cold.
- Pros: Smaller race fields, festive atmospheres, and a unique running experience.
- Cons: Risk of ice or snow, which can impact footing and safety.
- Best bets: Running From Yeti (February), local winter trail races
Whether you’re looking for a race with mild temperatures or are willing to embrace Missouri’s unpredictable weather, timing your marathon around the right season can make all the difference in your race-day experience.
Conclusion
Running a marathon in Missouri is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the race itself. The state offers a diverse mix of courses, but what stands out most is the community support and the distinct identity of each event. Some races focus on speed and Boston-qualifying potential, while others embrace a more laid-back, quirky charm—like ringing a cowbell in St. Charles or racing past jazz history in Kansas City. The smaller marathons may lack the crowds of major city races, but they make up for it with thoughtful organization, local character, and strong volunteer support. The bigger events, on the other hand, bring a more polished race experience while still maintaining Missouri’s welcoming, grassroots feel. Whether you’re in it for the challenge, the scenery, or the post-race celebrations, Missouri proves that a great marathon isn’t just about the miles—it’s about the experience you take away from it.
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.
