On the final Saturday of July annually, the Metropolis of Manistee, Michigan hosts a whole bunch of runners within the Run the Pier Competition. This pageant provides a 5K, 10K, half marathon, and full marathon possibility for runners and is likely one of the finest methods to have fun the center of summer time.
I ran the total marathon for the primary time this 12 months and have already marked my calendar for race registration opening for the 2026 occasion. Manistee, Michigan is situated on the western aspect of Michigan and is a few 4-5 hour drive from Chicago, relying on the Indiana/Illinois border site visitors that’s utterly unpredictable.
Apart from the border site visitors, the drive was fast, straightforward, and enjoyable because it took us by means of a number of small cities and delightful surroundings alongside Lake Michigan. We arrived Friday afternoon, simply in time to seize my race packet and have a fast dinner.
Staying on the Hampton Inn & Suites – Manistee Waterfront proved to be the perfect approach to calm down earlier than the marathon. Conveniently, packet decide up was held proper on the resort, making it excellent for runners arriving afterward Friday.
The resort itself was distinctive, located simply off the freeway and steps away from First Road Seashore alongside the Manistee lakeshore. The seashore provided tender sand and clear water, creating a soothing setting. Further facilities included a bar, reside music, and a firepit overlooking the seashore, permitting visitors to completely benefit from the summer time ambiance. Downtown Manistee was only a mile away; after checking in, we headed there for dinner.
We loved an incredible meal at North Channel Brewing Firm. Since we waited about an hour for a desk, I’d suggest making reservations in case you plan to dine downtown. Luckily, the wait supplied a possibility to discover the native retailers and take up the attraction of downtown Manistee.
After a restful evening, I set out early for the marathon’s 7am begin. The stroll from the resort to the beginning line was a few mile and a half—a easy, straightforward route to start the day. Staggered race begins ensured runners had loads of area on the course. The marathon started promptly at 7am, with cloudy skies and excessive humidity as we navigated by means of town, out onto Manistee’s north pier, and across the iconic lighthouse—a memorable approach to start.
The race then adopted the lakeshore for the rest of the 26.2 miles, utilizing an out-and-back format with a couple of aspect path extensions. The course included some difficult hills throughout the center miles, however essentially the most important impediment was the humidity. About an hour into the race, clouds parted and a lightweight sprinkle supplied some reduction, adopted by heavier rain within the second hour. When the rain stopped and the solar emerged, the humidity intensified, making the ultimate ten miles significantly robust. Regardless of the climate, the course was effectively marked and delightful, showcasing the luxurious surroundings of Western Michigan and the lakefront.
Ending again on the identical park, I used to be capable of seize snacks and rehydrate earlier than ending my day. Each runner acquired a short-sleeve t-shirt and a finishers medal.
This summer time racing pageant is one I extremely suggest. Registration opens January 19, 2026, with reasonably priced charges for all race distances. Mark your calendars and contemplate becoming a member of me in Manistee subsequent July!
