IMT Des Moines Marathon
Iowa's Premier Fall Running Festival Through the Capital City
Iowa's biggest fall race — 25,000 runners past the State Capitol, Gray's Lake, and the Sculpture Park.
Race links
- Registration and official site Registration page and official website
- Calendar Add race to calendar
- Listing status Verified listing
- Listing updated May 21, 2026
- Correction Report a correction
Always verify dates, registration, and travel details with the official organizer before registering or booking travel.
My race plan
Status: Not in My Races yet
Time until race day
Race date: October 18, 2026 at 8:00 AM.
Key facts
| Date | October 18, 2026 |
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| Location | Des Moines, Iowa, United States |
| Events | Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K, Relay, Kids' Run |
| Official source | Registration page and official site |
| Certified course | USATF |
| Listing status | Verified |
About
The IMT Des Moines Marathon is Iowa's premier fall running event, drawing 25,000 runners from across the Midwest. The flat, scenic course passes the Iowa State Capitol, Pappajohn Sculpture Park, Gray's Lake, and the vibrant East Village neighborhoods. Marathon, half marathon, 5K, marathon relay, and kids' fun run options celebrate running in Iowa's capital city.
Schedule
| Start time | 8:00 AM |
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Location
| Listed location | Des Moines, Iowa, United States |
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| Venue | Iowa State Capitol |
| Address | 1007 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50319 |
Map preview by OpenStreetMap. Open map on OpenStreetMap
Course
| Surface | Road |
|---|---|
| Course type | Loop |
| Elevation gain | 35 m |
| Boston qualifier | Listed as Boston qualifier |
| Weather notes | Mid-October in Des Moines averages 8 to 18 C (46 to 64 F). Ideal Midwest fall running conditions. |
Race profile
| First held | 2002 |
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| Average runners | 22,000 |
Registration
| Registration page | Registration link |
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| Price | $80 to $120 |
| Participant limit | 25,000 |
Contact
| Organizer | Des Moines Marathon |
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