Prepare for an extraordinary trail running experience at the Wild Duluth Races on October 17, 2026, in scenic Duluth, Minnesota. This event, renowned for its challenging yet breathtaking courses, offers distances to test every runner: a 100K, 50K, Half Marathon (13.1M), and a 10K. Typical race day conditions in mid-October feature comfortable highs around 52F and lows near 36F, with a mere 12% chance of precipitation, creating ideal running weather for tackling the rugged terrain.

The Wild Duluth Races are celebrated for immersing runners in the "wilds" of Duluth, with 90-99% of the 100K and 50K routes following the notoriously tough Superior Hiking Trail (SHT). These courses are extremely rugged, marked by relentless hills, technical rocky sections, and abundant roots, prompting many veteran ultrarunners to call the 50K and 100K among the toughest in the Midwest. Runners will navigate high points and ridges, earning spectacular panoramic views of the St. Louis River, Duluth's harbor, the city sprawling below, and the majestic Lake Superior. The 100K boasts nearly 10,000 feet of elevation gain as an out-and-back course, starting and finishing at Bayfront Park, while the point-to-point 50K covers about 5,000 feet of elevation, beginning at Oldenburg Point in Jay Cooke State Park and concluding at Bayfront Park. The Half Marathon and 10K, also largely on the SHT, offer their own challenges, including a memorable climb to Ely's Peak for tremendous views, with finishes at the Spirit Mountain Grand Avenue Chalet.

Beyond the demanding course, the Wild Duluth Races are known for their exceptional runner support and vibrant atmosphere. Participants consistently praise the plentiful and well-stocked aid stations and the "phenomenal" volunteers who provide encouragement every step of the way. From its origins in 2009, born from a desire to share Duluth's incredible trails, the event has grown steadily, attracting over a thousand runners annually. This race offers a unique opportunity to push personal limits on trails that feel like deep wilderness, yet are surprisingly accessible within city limits. Finishing here isn't just a physical accomplishment; as many runners attest, it's an experience that can "change your life".