2026 Market to Market Relay Iowa

The 2026 Market to Market Relay Iowa invites teams of 6 to 8 runners to embark on "Iowa's Running Road Trip" on May 9, 2026. This celebrated 75-mile relay race kicks off at sun-up from the iconic Bell Tower in Jefferson, Iowa, guiding teams through a diverse and scenic journey to a lively downtown Des Moines finish. The course, broken into 18 stages ranging from 3 to 5+ miles, challenges runners on a mixture of bike trails, paved roads, and gravel paths, predominantly following the picturesque Raccoon River Valley Trail System. While largely considered fast and flat, later stages introduce more tree-lined sections and a hiller terrain, offering a varied experience for every team member.

Runners consistently praise the Market to Market Relay for its top-notch organization, incredible volunteer support, and vibrant atmosphere, with 98% recommending the event on Facebook. This highly anticipated relay is known to sell out months in advance, a testament to its reputation as a premier team running experience. A unique aspect of this race is the camaraderie built through memorable van rides, outrageous costumes, and the shared challenge of navigating central Iowa's beautiful landscapes. Teams are responsible for their own hydration between exchange points, where portable toilets are readily available.

The ultimate reward for this unforgettable day is the massive post-race celebration, the "Post-Race Shindig," now featuring a new finish line in the Des Moines Market District and festivities at Twisted Vine. Participants are treated to a premium race shirt and a distinctive bottle opener medal, making the 12th-year anniversary edition a truly special event. With typical race day conditions seeing highs around 70F and lows near 49F, and only a 19% chance of precipitation, runners can anticipate pleasant weather for their epic relay adventure.