Canal Run

Get ready to experience the 50th annual Canal Run on Saturday, July 18, 2026, in the stunning Keweenaw Peninsula of Hancock, Michigan. This premier running event has been a highlight for thousands of participants over the past five decades, celebrated for its scenic routes and vibrant community atmosphere. Runners and walkers can choose from a range of distances, including a challenging 13.1-mile Half Marathon, the 10-mile Bob Olson Memorial Run, a 5-mile run, a 2-mile fun run/walk, and a .25-mile Kids Dash, along with corresponding walking events. Adaptive categories are also available for wheelchair and blade participants, ensuring inclusivity for all.

The course itself features rolling hills along the picturesque Portage Lake Shipping Canal, offering beautiful views as you push toward the finish line on Quincy Street. Aid stations are strategically placed every two miles, providing water, Gatorade, and medical support to keep you fueled and safe. While the course is not entirely closed to traffic, participants are encouraged to use provided shuttle services to start lines and must stay on the left side of the road, facing traffic for safety. Typical race day conditions in mid-July bring pleasant highs around 78°F and lows around 52°F, with a 14% chance of precipitation, making for ideal running weather.

Beyond the race itself, the Canal Run is deeply rooted in giving back, having donated over $30,000 to local non-profit organizations since 2011 through its "Canal Run Gives Back" program. Expect a well-organized event complete with chip-timed results, a commemorative race t-shirt, and unique, locally-designed awards for top finishers and age group winners, plus free downloadable photos to capture your achievement. Join this long-standing tradition for a memorable experience that combines fitness, breathtaking scenery, and strong community spirit.