Lace-up for an unforgettable experience at the Bay to Beacon Half Marathon, 10K, & 5K, set to run on Saturday, August 15, 2026, in picturesque Harrisville, Michigan. This annual non-profit road race offers a unique opportunity to "Run the Coast" of Lake Huron, with distances including a Half Marathon (13.1M), 10K, 5K, and a Kids' 1 Miler. The Bay to Beacon is celebrated for its beautiful, fast, and remarkably flat course, making it ideal for setting a personal best or enjoying a scenic journey.
The Half Marathon features a point-to-point route, starting in the lush Negwegon State Park and culminating at the historic Sturgeon Point Lighthouse, a path steeped in Northern Michigan's rich Native American heritage. The 10K and 5K races offer an out-and-back course, both beginning and ending at the iconic Sturgeon Point Lighthouse. Runners will enjoy continuous stunning views of Lake Huron throughout their race. While primarily on paved roads, the Half Marathon includes a brief 2.5-3 mile stretch on a seasonal gravel road. Aid stations and bathrooms are strategically placed along the route to support runners. Typical race day conditions in mid-August see pleasant highs around 74F and lows near 58F, with only a 12% chance of precipitation, providing excellent running weather.
Beyond the challenge, the Bay to Beacon offers a true community feel, highlighted by a pre-race pancake dinner and the enthusiastic support of "some of the best volunteers around!" What truly sets this event apart is its commitment to local beneficiaries, with race profits supporting mental health initiatives, environmental protection for Negwegon State Park, and the preservation of local history through The Alcona Historical Society. As a zero-waste initiative since 2022, the race also champions environmental stewardship. Finishing your race with a beautiful view of the lake, you'll even have the opportunity for a refreshing post-race swim in Lake Huron. This makes the Bay to Beacon a fantastic destination race or an ideal training run for upcoming fall marathons.
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