The 2026 Bismarck Marathon presented by MDU Resources Group has drawn registrants from 38 states, Washington D.C., and three countries, with race day set for Saturday, September 19 in North Dakota. This year’s field spans five competitive distances: the Full Marathon (26.2 mi.), Half Marathon (13.1 mi.), Marathon Relay (5 legs, 26.2 mi. total), 10K (6.2 mi.), and 5K (3.1 mi.).
More than 1,400 runners have signed up so far, roughly 290 of them from outside North Dakota, traveling from as far as California, Florida, New York, Canada, and England. The field is filling steadily, and registration remains open for the Half Marathon, 10K and 5K distances.
For out-of-state runners, the appeal is a combination that is hard to find in one race. The Full and Half Marathon courses are USATF-certified and Boston Marathon qualifiers, run over a relatively flat, fast route that crosses the Missouri River and finishes on the North Dakota State Capitol grounds, home to the tallest building in North Dakota. September in Bismarck typically brings cool, fall weather built for distance running, and the field stays small enough that runners have room on the course rather than a crowded course.
The race is a 501(c)(3), and proceeds support local youth, health, and wellness charities – meaning every registration helps fund programs across the region. Now in its 45th year, the Bismarck Marathon has contributed to a monumental total of more than $700,000 donated since 2007, including a donation of $38,010 to 22 local charitable organizations just last year.. T
Race day is right around the corner. Get registered today at TheBismarckMarathon.com.