Missoula Marathon

Set your sights on Big Sky Country for the Missoula Marathon and Half Marathon on June 28, 2026, a race consistently lauded as one of the finest in America. Offering both a 26.2-mile and 13.1-mile challenge, this USATF-certified Boston Qualifier course promises a memorable journey through stunning Montana landscapes, starting in Frenchtown and culminating in a vibrant downtown Missoula finish.

Runners embarking on the full marathon will traverse a scenic, point-to-point route that guides them from the Montana countryside, alongside the Frenchtown Valley and the Clark Fork River, into the heart of Missoula. While largely considered flat and fast, perfect for those chasing personal records, the course does feature a notable, albeit manageable, hill just past the halfway mark, offering breathtaking river views and even a bagpiper to spur you on. Aid stations are frequent, well-organized, and generously stocked with water and sports drinks, ensuring runners are well-supported every step of the way. Typical race day conditions see highs around 80F and lows near 49F, with a minimal 6% chance of precipitation, though the enthusiastic Missoula community is known for providing extra sprinklers and misters if temperatures rise.

Beyond the course, the Missoula Marathon is celebrated for its exceptional race management and unparalleled community spirit. From the festive start complete with fireworks to the welcoming finish at the Beartracks Bridge in front of the historic Wilma Theater, every detail is meticulously handled. Runners consistently praise the friendly atmosphere, the abundance of volunteers, and the vibrant energy that makes this race a perennial favorite and a true bucket-list experience.