Western Montana’s varied landscapes are a runner’s paradise, offering everything from serene backcountry roads and rugged mountain trails to extensive Rails to Trails networks and scenic city routes. With a vibrant running community and enthusiastic local support, your runs here are sure to be memorable. Throughout spring and summer, our communities host a variety of marathons, races and fun runs. Lace up your running shoes and embark on the run-cation of a lifetime in Glacier Country.
Whitefish Marathon: May 17, 2025
Begin and end at Depot Park in downtown Whitefish. Then follow the route and enjoy the landscapes that unfold as you run through the rural outskirts of town before coming back downtown to race toward the finish line of the half marathon or 5K. The full marathon is sold out for 2025. Runners enjoy a well-deserved post-race lunch, including beers from local breweries.
Hiawatha Trail Run: June 8, 2025
This Rails to Trails bike route in Taft is a unique and memorable run. Choose between 10K, 15K, 25K and 50K distance options. The out-and-back race path takes you through a 1.8-mile railroad tunnel (lit by your headlight), along sky-high railroad trestles overlooking the forest, and past waterfalls and wildlife. There is a slight 1.5% downhill grade going down, which lets you warm up before turning around for the ascent.
Herron Half: June 12, 2025
The expansive Foy’s to Blacktail Trails system in Kalispell’s Herron Park is ideal for trail running. Choose between the half marathon, 10K, 5K or kids run. After some challenging climbs, the race’s 10K and half-marathon runners will be rewarded with awesome views of the Flathead Valley, while the 5K and kids run provide a fun introduction to the fast-growing sport of trail running.
Many Abilities Fun Run: June 14, 2025
The Many Abilities Fun Run in Stevensville was designed for everyone. This inclusive run encourages participants to dress up as a superhero, with awards for the best costumes. Along with a 1K or 5K run, take part in the festival with family activities, vendors and food trucks.
Mountain to Meadow: June 15, 2025
One of Glacier Country’s highest altitude starting lines—5,223-foot Lolo Pass—Mountain to Meadow half marathon and 10K offers trail runners an irresistible challenge. Not only is the half marathon an extra half mile (13.6 miles), but runners will also get in over 1,200 feet of climbing, balanced out by a flat stretch near historic Packer Meadow (Lewis and Clark camped here) where camas wildflowers should be in full bloom, coloring the whole meadow a stunning purple. The finish line fun includes barbecue and Big Sky Brewing Co. beer. This race sells out quickly, and registration opens April 1, 2025.
Trail Rail Run: June 21, 2025
All the Trail Rail Run courses follow old Northern Pacific and Milwaukee Railroad grades through the spectacular Lolo National Forest. These wide, forgiving dirt and gravel surfaces never rise above a 2% grade, so this could be your chance to get a PR! In the longest event of the Trail Rail Run, ultra-runners can race 50.5 miles from Mullan, Idaho, to St. Regis, Montana. If that’s more than your quads and calves can handle, there are plenty of other distances to choose from: a 50-mile relay, 30K, 12K and 5K. All racers are bussed from St. Regis to their respective starting points.
Bob Marshall Trail 50K + 10K + Half Marathon: June 21, 2025
Begin your run in Seeley Lake and traverse Nordic ski trails and Forest Service roads through beautiful scenery right outside the rugged Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex—one the nation’s largest wilderness areas. Pick your race distance of 50K, 25K, 10K or 5K. Bear spray is required while running as the area is home to wildlife, including deer, elk and bears.
Glacier Half Marathon: June 28, 2025
The payoff of this challenging run is the Glacier National Park landscape, at sunrise no less. This course—on the Blackfeet Reservation in East Glacier Park—is unbelievably beautiful. Climb Looking Glass Hill and take in views of Two Medicine Lake, ending at the iconic Glacier Park Lodge. Keep in mind while training that this course includes a 5-mile stretch of steady incline that begins above 5,000 feet. It’s recommended to book accommodations early for this race.
Missoula Marathon: June 29, 2025
Over the years, the Missoula Marathon has been named one of the most beautiful in the world by USA Today, “Top 10 Bucket List Marathon” by Runner’s World, “#1 Marathon in the U.S.” by BibRave, and the accolades continue. Need any more incentives to sign up? You’ve got it: There’s also a half marathon, a 5K, a kids marathon, an expo, a free beer run and a finish line flanked by cheering spectators in downtown Missoula on the banks of the Clark Fork River. It’s also a sanctioned Boston Qualifier, with a flat course that sets the stage for a PR.
4 Miles to Freedom: July 5, 2025
Celebrate the Fourth of July holiday with a 4-mile run in Libby. Event proceeds go toward The Frozen Challenge organization, which supports veterans and civilians with TBI and PTSD. Begin the race at Happy’s Inn before following the double-track course around Crystal Lake. This race is for all levels with a kids entry, open entry and competitive entry.
Buffalo Run: July 12, 2025
The Buffalo Run is part of the annual three-day, family-friendly Good Old Days event in St. Ignatius and includes a 1-mile fun run (walk/run), 4-mile run and 7-mile run, all with exceptional views of the Mission Mountains. This fun-filled weekend also includes barbecue, fireworks and a parade.
Flathead Lake Run: July 27, 2025
This “Sunday Funday” run, including a 10K, 5K and 1-mile kids run, along the shores of Flathead Lake helps preserve and protect the lake and the surrounding community of Lakeside. Bring your swimsuits for a refreshing jump in the lake after the race at Volunteer Park. Post-race fun includes craft beer (and root beer) from Tamarack Brewing Company, plus food trucks, vendors and more.
For even more running fun, check out this list of upcoming races in Montana.
Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents Recreate Responsibly by being mindful of the following: know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly; and help build an inclusive outdoors.
April 7, 2025
Related: Darby, East Glacier Park, Events, Glacier National Park, Kalispell, Lakeside, Lolo, Missoula, Montana, Outdoor Fun, Seeley Lake, St. Ignatius, St. Regis, Whitefish
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