The Ely Marathon: A Race Through Minnesota’s Northwoods
What is the Ely Marathon?
Every September, tucked amongst the lakes and forests of Northern Minnesota, runners and friends alike gather to run/experience the infamous Ely Marathon. A series of four races that snake through the dense forests and around stunning lakes, the Ely Marathon is a fantastic showcase of the natural beauty of Minnesota’s Northwoods. With activities for all ages, regardless of if you’re running or not, the Ely Marathon is truly a must-see event every autumn in Northern Minnesota. All this just a short drive from Crane Lake, the perfect base of operations for any great weekend getaway in Northern Minnesota!
What to Expect on Race Day?
The weekend of the marathon is a never-ending series of fun and engaging activities. From seeing the different races start, to the food trucks, beer tents, and merchandise areas, there are plenty of things to see and flavors to try of the local Northern Minnesota foods. Here’s a general overview of the races themselves:
The Marathon, Half Marathon, Portage & Relay, and Northern Lights 5K Glow Run
Under the umbrella of the Ely Marathon weekend, there are four races people can participate in and witness. Friday night starts the races with the Northern Lights 5K Glow Run, a great activity and challenge for runners who are less experienced. Early Saturday morning marks the start of the marathon itself before the half, the portage relay, and the kids marathon all kick off. Regardless of your running ability, if you want to run at all, Ely Marathon has a little something for everyone!
Scenic Views and Challenging Terrain
The race paths themselves are absolutely beautiful! Snaking through the woods and around lakes in the area, the full natural beauty of Northern Minnesota is clearly on display. Terrain-wise, the Ely Marathon is basically never flat and not always on pavement. Either going up or down, there is a total elevation gain of over 1,000 feet across the full 26.2 marathon miles to truly test the runners on their journey.
Race Day Events, Spectator Spots, and Post-Race Activities
Race day, especially Saturday, is filled with activities. If you’re running, your day starts early with the full marathon starting at 7:30 AM with more races starting soon after. For those not running, tents with food, drink, and merchandise begin to open around 9 AM. Alongside food, the epic inflatable city starts early and is joined by live music mid morning. 2 PM marks when awards are given out, with all important marathon finishes happening in the hours before that.
How to Make the Most of Your Race Weekend
With some great activities happening across the weekend, there is a fantastic experience waiting for runners and spectators alike at the Ely Marathon. Follow these steps to optimize your race weekend!
When to Arrive and Where to Park
If you’re racing, arriving early is a must. The marathon offers a free bus from parking at Ely Memorial High School (close to the finish line) to the starting line at Camp DuNord. For spectators, you can park near Whiteside Park. To see the starting line and to experience the full scope of what the marathon can offer activities-wise, even spectators should find arriving early to be the best choice.
Tips for Runners and Spectators Alike
For runners, come prepared for hills. The elevation gain is not for the faint of heart. For the spectators, watching the start and the finishes tend to be the most exciting features. There are also a series of observation spots listed by the marathon if you want to spectate in the middle or follow your favorite runner along.
The Best Post-Race Activities in Crane Lake
Post-race, retreating to Crane Lake can provide the perfect night to round off your race day. Especially if you ran, relaxing at a local Crane Lake bar is the perfect comedown from an adrenaline-filled day. Relaxing around a cozy fire in a cabin or taking a gentle nature walk around Crane Lake are also great, relaxing activities that are easy to achieve on Crane Lake.
Why Crane Lake is the Perfect Base for the Race
Only about 90 miles away from Ely, Crane Lake serves as the perfect base of operations for the Ely Marathon. A short drive, but away from the crowds of the race, Crane Lake gives the best of both worlds while also enabling you to partake in a number of outdoor activities in the beautiful Minnesota Northwoods.
A Scenic Retreat Just a Short Drive from Ely
A short drive through some scenic terrain, Crane Lake is a great way to reach the marathon while having your own weekend still. There are few ways better to enjoy a night post-race than relaxing around the quaint, quiet, and beautiful Crane Lake.
Outdoor Adventures to Pair with Your Race Weekend
Besides the race, Crane Lake offers a tremendous amount of other outdoor adventures to pair with your weekend. In the fall, Minnesota is still warm enough to go for some great hikes around Crane Lake, float around in a kayak on the lake, or try your luck with a fishing pole. With great scenery to take in, fantastic birds to look out for, and a never-ending series of trails to guide you, Crane Lake is a hot spot for fantastic outdoor adventures.
Where to Stay in Crane Lake for the Best Experience
Depending on the size of your party, Crane Lake offers a series of different cabins/rooms to comfortable house your group. Depending on how much privacy you need, Crane Lake has the perfect option for you. With kayaks/other outdoor gear available to rent at many of these cabins as well, Crane Lake has everything you need for a great weekend!
Plan Your Trip: Experience the Ely Marathon and the Beauty of Crane Lake
It’s hard to beat the fantastic experience provided by the Ely Marathon and Crane Lake as a whole! With cabins that can perfectly fit your needs, Crane Lake is a perfect base of operations that’s only a short drive away from the start of the infamous Ely Marathon. A weekend of fun, the Ely Marathon is a truly unique experience! When the events are over, the quiet and quaint Crane Lake welcomes you back for a relaxing night. For an outdoor weekend adventure all its own, Crane Lake has all the activities you could need. Come check out this gem tucked away in the forests of Northern Minnesota.
Fun for all.
This northeast Minnesota territory is part of Voyageurs National Park and offers many outdoor activities, such as kayaking, biking, hiking, and backpacking. Visitors from all over Minnesota, Wisconsin, and beyond travel to Crane Lake to enjoy the vast wilderness and explore the beauty of its many lakes and waterways. There are many local accommodations from cabin rentals to fishing tours with family fun activities for all ages. Contact us today to learn more about Crane Lake and plan your visit!
