Montana is a beautiful state famous for its diverse landscapes. From the Rocky Mountains to the Great Plains, there are thousands of routes you could take to enjoy the stunning views. So why not take in the scenery while also running a race?
Below, we have compiled a list of marathons and other races in Montana. We are sure that you’ll find something you’ll like!
Montana Ultramarathons
1. Le Grizz Ultramarathon
Let’s kick off our list with an impressive and challenging 50-mile-race in Montana. Le Grizz Ultramarathon is a well-established event that has been running for over 41 years.
This is a USATF-certified ultra marathon, meaning you can compete for the championship—just tell the organizers you are a member of USATF, and they will take care of everything.
Le Grizz is especially appealing to regular attendees. The run is extremely rewarding due to how challenging it is. Moreover, if you complete 10 Le Grizz ultra marathons, you will get a 10 Bears Award—a clock and a standing grizzly bear mounter on Montana native cedar or juniper.
2. Whitefish Trail Legacy Run
Another renowned ultra marathon is the Whitefish Trail Legacy Run. This event includes a 50K mountain run, a half marathon, a 10K, a 5K, and family fun run.
The run starts in downtown Whitefish, at Depot Park. You will go up Big Mountain by Whitefish Trail in Haskill and finish at the Great Northwest Oktoberfest in Depot Park in downtown Whitefish.
The course is mostly on natural surfaces, with only 6 miles on paved roads.
Montana Marathons
3. Madison Marathon
Madison Marathon in Montana is one of the most prolific and unique racing events in the US. The event first took place in 2008 and has consistently received high praise from the runners. The marathon is unique in a few ways.
First, it takes place on the Gravelly Range, the state’s massive mountain range, famous for its scenic views. While picturesque panoramas are not a novelty for seasoned runners, there is something special about this range—mostly its height—which brings us to our second point, the elevation.
The starting point of this race is at a whopping 9,250 feet above sea level and goes up to almost 9,600 feet at some stretches of the race. The track features several uphill and downhill stretches but never goes below 8,400 feet.
Finally, the race only allows up to 200 runners, meaning you will have an opportunity to meet almost everyone in a single run. It feels more tightly-knit and communal than bigger races, which we consider a significant advantage.
4. Bozeman Marathon
Bozeman Marathon is one of the most beautiful marathons in Montana. This race will take you through some of Montana’s most scenic places. You will pass next to stunning Gallatin Valley, cross over rivers, and even run by some open farmlands (cute animals included!) before finishing at historic Main Street in Downtown Bozeman.
Not yet sold on this Montana marathon? Then we should also tell you that Bozeman Marathon is a USATF-certified race and a Boston Marathon Qualifier.
If you are not up for the full thing, a half marathon is also available.
Montana Half Marathons
5. Glacier Half Marathon
Did you ever want to visit Glacier National Park but could not find a good opportunity? Glacier Half Marathon is the answer to your problem!
This is a fairly challenging marathon, especially at the start. The first 5 miles of the run are uphill, with a slow climb of over 900 feet. After that, it all goes downhill.
The course lies along the eastern border of the Glacier National Park. You will see beautiful prairies at the base of Looking Glass Hill and the astonishing Two Medicine Lake between miles 5 and 8. The finish line is at the magnificent and historic Glacier Park Lodge.
6. Just for the Helena of It
Just for the Helena of It is the new big thing organized by a local non-profit organization Treasure State Runners. The half marathon and 5K courses lie through the beautiful town of Helena and many of its historic and scenic areas.
All the proceeds from the run will go to The Friendship Center. This non-profit organization has a mission of becoming a safe haven for people who are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
Montana 10K Races
7. Run the Boo
Run the Boo is a fun Halloween-themed running event. You can expect people in ridiculous costumes running with their friends and families in these awesome 10K and 5K races. There is also a kids’ race.
The races will start at different spots, lead you through scenic farmlands, and all finish at Beaverhead Brewing Company.
8. Boogie to the Bank
Boogie to the Bank is a Columbia Falls Heritage Day tradition that features 10K and 5K races (along with a kids’ race). You will run from North Fork Road to Main Street in Columbia Falls.
This race is perfect for locals and visitors since it is a flat course through the city, allowing you to see what it has to offer.
Montana 5K Races
9. Belgreat! Fall Festival
Want to celebrate the start of fall by running a chill 5K race? Then the Belgreat! Fall Festival is a great choice for you!
This Montana race starts and ends at Belgrade Senior Center, so it is easy to reach Lewis & Clark Park to see the parade and attend other festivities. The proceeds from the run will go to the Belgrade Community Coalition.
10. Runnin’ Back to the 90’s
Are you nostalgic for the 90’s? Take your best 90’s costume and go to Glendive for the Runnin’ Back to the 90’s 5K.
You will run through downtown Glendive, cross the Yellowstone River, make a loop at Eyer Park, and finish just one block away from your starting point. All the proceeds from the race will go to the DCHS cross country and track programs and Makoshika Wellness.
Conclusion
There are many great Montana races to attend, whether you are a competitive racer or just do it for fun. This state has many fantastic natural views and historical monuments to visit. Montana has a fairly active running scene, so keep your eyes peeled for new races to attend.
