The Missoula Marathon is an experience like no other. Missoula is an active town with no shortage of local charm, and the marathon weekend is more than just the race. It is an immersive celebration of running and of all the things Missoulians hold dear: nature, music, recreation, food, community, and fun. Make the most of your Missoula Marathon Weekend with the amazing events by Run Wild Missoula and our tips for a great experience in our charming mountain town.
Named by BibRave and Runners World as a top marathon in the country, the marathon is a love letter to running and the outdoors. Created by runners for runners, the local nonprofit Run Wild Missoula left no stone unturned for providing a high-quality experience for runners and spectators alike. Not only is the marathon a Boston Qualifier, but the flat and fast 26.2 mile course is one of the most scenic routes for marathons in the country. Both the marathon and the half marathon begin in the heart of downtown Missoula and wind their way along rivers and through historic downtown Missoula and its surrounding neighborhoods, all with the stunning mountain backdrop of western Montana.
Photo credit: Emily Brown
Friday, June 27
3pm: Guest Speaker Marinus Evan, Slow AF Run Club
4-8pm: Runners Expo, Welcome Party and DJ Ivanoff @ Caras Park
6pm: FREE Beer Run @ Caras Park Pavillion
Saturday, June 28
8am-4pm: Runners Expo @ Caras Park
8am: Tony Banovich 5K
10am: Kids Marathon
12pm: Guest Speaker Marinus Evan, Slow AF Run Club
Sunday, June 29
6am: Marathon Start
7am: Half Marathon Start
8am-1:30pm: Post Race Party @ Downtown Missoula
While in Missoula, do as the Missoulians do (and there is no shortage of things to do...trust us).
There's a reason you signed up for the Missoula Marathon, so it should not come as a surprise that Missoula is an outdoor lover's paradise. If you want to warm up your legs for the race with a hike, you will not have to look long or hard for trails ranging from easy to strenuous all within close proximity to downtown. Missoula is known for its world-class fly fishing. In fact, the memoir-turned-movie A River Runs Through It takes place in Missoula! Go it solo or hire a guide and cast a line in the gorgeous waters that surround the town for an authentic Montana experience. Summertime is perfect for floating and tubing the rivers around Missoula, and this beloved pastime is a perfect way to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of our town and the surrounding areas!
Not only is Missoula a haven for all things outdoor recreation, it is also a cultural hub in Montana. Downtown Missoula is home to several museums and galleries including the Missoula Art Museum where admission is always free and features rotating and permanent exhibits featuring world-class artists. In addition, the music culture of Missoula regularly brings in huge headliners. In fact, Missoula is home to two outdoor amphitheaters and our concert line-up is sure to wow.
The food and drink scene in Missoula always surprises people in the best way. In a place where farm-to-table is the norm and local flavors always come out to play, visitors and locals alike can enjoy restaurants, bistros, and cafes with menus to rival large cities. Missoula also boasts over a dozen breweries, a winery, a cidery, and two distilleries, so if sampling local brews and beverages is on your to-do list, you are in good hands here!
Missoula's community-centric vibe is evident in the love and support that pours into the runners during the Missoula Marathon, but visitors also enjoy taking in this community at local events or at our Saturday Farmers Markets. On Saturdays during the warmer months, Missoula has three markets in downtown: the Missoula Farmers Market, The Clark Fork River Market, and the Missoula People's Art Market. Enjoy live music, food trucks, baked goods, local produce, meats, and cheeses, and so much more at the farmers markets before browsing the beautiful creations from the local makers and creators in western Montana at the People's Market. And while you are downtown, be sure to pop in and browse our charming local shops and boutiques(did we mention Montana has 0% sales tax so feel free to shop til you drop).
Learn more about Run Wild Missoula, The Missoula Marathon, or register for the race yourself at RWM's website.
Marathon photos courtesy of Missoula Marathon.
