Grand Island Trail Marathon 2025: The Ultimate Michigan Trail Race Experience
Why Runners Love the Grand Island Trail Marathon in Michigan
If you're looking for one of the best trail marathons in Michigan, the Grand Island Trail Marathon 2025 should be at the top of your list. Held annually in Munising, MI, this race takes place on Grand Island—an undeveloped gem in Lake Superior—offering runners breathtaking views, well-maintained forest trails, and a challenging yet rewarding course.
2025 Grand Island Trail Marathon: Race Details
- Date: Saturday, July 26, 2025
- Location: Grand Island, Munising, Michigan (Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore area)
- Distances: Marathon, Half Marathon, and 50K Ultramarathon
- Runner Cap: 500 participants total
- Organizer: Great Lakes Endurance
A Scenic Michigan Trail Race Like No Other
The trail marathon course loops counterclockwise around Grand Island, starting at Williams Landing. Runners will experience:
- Single-track and two-track trails through old-growth forests
- Sweeping views of Lake Superior and the Pictured Rocks
- Iconic sandstone cliffs rising 300 feet above the lake
- Quiet inland lakes like Duck Lake and Echo Lake
- A challenging summit climb for 50K ultrarunners
Whether you're racing the half marathon, full marathon, or 50K ultra, every step immerses you in the natural beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Sustainable and Runner-Friendly Trail Event
This eco-conscious trail race emphasizes sustainability. All participants must carry a hydration system (20 oz or more). Aid stations feature:
- Cold water
- Gnarly Fuel2O energy drink
- Hammer Gels and Fizz
You’ll also receive a custom race shirt (if registered by July 4), a finisher medallion, and access to post-race snacks and refreshments.
Registration and Logistics
- Registration Deadline: July 25, 2025, at 9:00 p.m. EST
- Packet Pickup: Friday, July 25, 3:00–9:00 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Express Lakeview, Munising
- Transportation: Race fee includes round-trip bus and ferry transport to Grand Island from Munising
- Website: Official Registration & Info Page
Why You Should Run the Grand Island Trail Marathon
- One of the most scenic trail races in the Midwest
- A bucket-list destination for trail running in North America
- Family-friendly weekend getaway in Munising, near Pictured Rocks
- Unique eco-friendly racing experience
- Ideal for first-time trail runners and experienced ultrarunners alike
Final Thoughts
Whether you're chasing a new PR or looking for a nature-filled adventure, the Grand Island Trail Marathon 2025 offers an unforgettable race experience. From Lake Superior vistas to dense hemlock forests, this is more than just a marathon—it’s a full-on exploration of Michigan's wilderness.
🟢 Register early to secure your spot—this race will sell out!
🟢 Share this post with your running crew and start training today!
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