Lace up for an unforgettable journey at the Ludington Lakestride Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K on June 13, 2026, in picturesque Ludington, Michigan. This cherished event, with a history spanning over 40 years, is renowned as a "Destination Race" that seamlessly blends big-race excitement with a welcoming hometown atmosphere, attracting hundreds of runners to its scenic courses. Runners can expect typical race day conditions to feature comfortable temperatures, with highs around 76F and lows around 53F, and only a 15% chance of precipitation, providing an ideal setting for personal bests.

The Half Marathon course is both beautiful and challenging, offering a diverse running experience. Starting on Lake Shore Drive near the city beach, runners head north toward Ludington State Park, encountering paved, rolling hills along Piney Ridge Road that offer glimpses of Lake Michigan dunes and Hamlin Lake. A highlight is the 1.8-mile trail run through a mature forest, a "fun" section with "short ups and downs" and some technical areas, including sandy patches and tree roots, which runners have described as feeling like a "roller coaster." After navigating the woods, participants descend an "infamous sand dune," cross the Hamlin Dam, and enjoy a breathtaking six-mile stretch along the Lake Michigan shoreline with continuous lake views, before a final flat and fast push to the finish. While the majority of the course is flat, the trail section and one notable hill around mile 12 add a strategic challenge.

All races culminate at the heart of Stearns Park, near the iconic Ludington Lighthouse, creating a picturesque finish line. Aid stations, stocked with water and Gatorade, are strategically placed at approximately every mile for the Half Marathon up to the trail entrance, and then again upon exiting the State Park around mile 7, ensuring runners stay hydrated. Post-race, celebrate your accomplishment with refreshments, including chocolate milk, Gatorade, water, bagels, and bananas, in the finish area tent. The Ludington Lakestride offers more than just a race; it's an opportunity for a full day of enjoyment, with many participants and their families extending their stay to swim, sunbathe, or play volleyball on the beach, all within walking distance of downtown Ludington's amenities.