Grandma’s Marathon
Started by a local group of runners in 1977, Grandma’s Marathon has grown from 150 participants to one of the largest marathons in the United States, welcoming over 20,000 participants each June. The racecourse runs alongside Lake Superior before entering Duluth, where spectators cheer runners to the finish line. The event marks the unofficial kickoff to summer in Duluth.
Elevation Details
- Total Elevation Gain:471
- Net Elevation Gain:-130
Notable Landmarks
- Lemon Drop Hill: Located near the 22-mile mark, this incline is one of the course's most challenging segments. Spectators often gather here to motivate runners as they approach the final stretch.
- Troll Mile: Approximately at mile 19, runners encounter the "Troll Mile," a section adorned with over 200 troll figurines, adding a whimsical touch to the race.
- Historic Fitger's Brewing Company: Around mile 24, participants pass this historic brewery, a Duluth landmark that has been transformed into an inn and retail complex.
- SS William A. Irvin: Near mile 25.5, runners pass by this retired iron ore freighter, now a museum ship docked in Duluth's harbor, symbolizing the city's rich maritime heritage.
- Aerial Lift Bridge: As runners approach the finish line in Canal Park, they are greeted by views of this iconic bridge, one of Duluth's most recognizable structures.
Location Details
Other Race Distances
Boston Marathon Status
Estimated Hotel Cost
400 USD per night
Race Requirements
Eligibility
Official Registration
Age Limitations
Time Limit
Prohibited Items - consult https://grandmasmarathon.com/rules-of-competition/
Required Documents
Photo ID
For third party bib pickup: printedauthorized confirmation along with their own photo ID at the packet pickup location.
Entry Methods
Online registration
Charity organization's website
Entry fees are non-refundable. The only exception to this is for those who are on active military duty and deployed for service during race weekend (a copy of deployment orders is required).
Entry deferments are not permitted under any circumstances.
Yes, you may transfer your entry to another person. This action comes with a $26.95 transaction fee, which is to be paid by the person receiving the transferred entry.
The Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon is also held on the same course on June 21, 2025
Yes, even if general entries for Grandma's Marathon are sold out, you can still secure a spot by participating as a charity runner. Grandma's Marathon collaborates with various official charity partners, each allocated a limited number of race entries specifically for fundraising purposes. To obtain one of these entries, you'll need to commit to raising a minimum amount of funds for the chosen charity.
For instance, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation offers guaranteed race entries to participants who pledge to raise at least $1,200 for the full or half marathon, and $650 for the 5K. Similarly, Save the Boundary Waters provides entries with a fundraising commitment of $500 for either the full marathon or half marathon, and $250 for the 5K. It's important to note that each charity sets its own fundraising requirements and may have specific deadlines. Additionally, charity entries are limited and can sell out, so it's advisable to reach out promptly to the organization you're interested in supporting.
- General Entry130 USD
- Charity Fundraiser500 USD
- Registration Open2024-10-01
- Price Increases2024-10-16
- Bib Transfer Deadline2025-05-01
- Charity Runner Registration Deadline2025-05-04
- Race Packet Delivery Request Deadline2025-05-20