IMT Des Moines Marathon
The Lowdown
The IMT Des Moines Marathon, first run in the early 2000s and now one of Iowa’s premier fall road races, has grown into a beloved Midwestern tradition that draws both local runners and out-of-state competitors. Held in mid-October when the river valleys and tree-lined streets are at their peak color, the race benefits community causes and showcases Des Moines’ evolving downtown. The event weekend also includes a half marathon, relay and various youth and community races, creating a festival-like atmosphere that makes it a destination for runners of all abilities. The course takes runners on a varied and scenic tour of Des Moines, with stretches along the Des Moines River, the scenic riverwalk and numerous city parks. Runners pass iconic city landmarks and neighborhoods — including the State Capitol area, the East Village, downtown arts and entertainment districts, and segments that showcase Gray’s Lake and riverside trails — blending urban architecture with leafy, park-like vistas. Many participants cite the well-supported course, enthusiastic local spectators, frequent aid stations, and live music along parts of the route as highlights that help carry them through to the finish. The race is USATF-certified and serves as a Boston Marathon qualifier, with accurate chip timing and race-day amenities aimed at delivering a fast, enjoyable experience for competitive and recreational runners alike.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
Large field
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Good crowd energy
Event posts largest combined participant field in race history
Oct 19, 2025The 2025 IMT Des Moines Marathon reported a combined total of approximately 11,800 finishers across marathon, half marathon and 5K, the largest turnout in the event's history. Registration for the 2026 race opened earlier than usual and organizers noted 70% of marathon slots were claimed within two months.
Minor course adjustment announced for 2026 to avoid downtown construction
Nov 12, 2025Race organizers confirmed a small route modification for the 2026 edition to reroute a downtown segment around ongoing street and utility construction; the change shortens one central loop and preserves net elevation and certified distance. The finish remains on Court Avenue in downtown Des Moines and organizers say aid station locations and timing mat positions were updated accordingly.
This race qualifies for the Boston Marathon
Race Weekend
Other distances available
Notable Landmarks
Iowa State Capitol
Iconic golden-domed statehouse in downtown Des Moines, a prominent backdrop along the course
Pappajohn Sculpture Park
4.4-acre park featuring large contemporary sculptures near the downtown stretch
Principal Park
Home of the Iowa Cubs baseball team; runners pass close to the stadium in the downtown riverfront area
Principal Riverwalk / Des Moines River
Scenic riverfront path and bridges that the course follows for several miles
Gray's Lake Park
Popular recreational lake with a paved trail and picturesque views used in the race route
Historic East Village / Court Avenue District
Vibrant downtown neighborhood with shops and bars that runners pass through or near
Drake University / University Campus Area
Residential and tree-lined streets near the university that are part of the course
Des Moines, IA, United States
US
Based on nearby accommodations
- Minimum age 16 to register for the full marathon; participants under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign the waiver
- Must complete online registration and receive an official race bib prior to race day
- All participants must sign the race waiver and agree to the event terms and conditions
- Race entry is open to all nationalities; no US residency required
- Participants must start and finish within the official time limit (6 hours 30 minutes) to receive an official finish time and medal
- All entrants must comply with race rules, directions from race officials and course marshals
- Medical clearance is recommended for anyone with pre-existing medical conditions; on-course medical support is available but runners compete at their own risk
- No unauthorized use or transfer of bibs; bib-swapping is prohibited and may result in disqualification
- Runners must follow the published course and may only accept assistance at authorized aid stations
- Photo ID
- Signed race waiver / medical release
- Emergency contact information
- Proof of time for seeded or competitive entry (if applicable)
- Proof of age (if requested for age-group verification)
- Online Registration
- Charity Entry
- Tour Operator
- Relay Team Entry
- In-Person Registration
Cancellation & Refunds
Policy details
No refunds under any circumstances
Deferral to the 2027 race permitted until August 1, 2026 with a $20 processing fee
Bib transfers to another participant allowed until September 15, 2026 with a $10 administrative fee
Switch to the virtual race option available until October 1, 2026 (no refund of entry fee; virtual upgrade fee may apply)
Medical deferral available with physician documentation at any time prior to race day; documentation required and deferral granted to the next calendar year
The IMT Des Moines Marathon course is USATF-certified and a Boston Marathon-qualifying course, finishing in downtown Des Moines with views of the city skyline near Principal Park.
The route passes many city landmarks and scenic sections including the Iowa State Capitol, Des Moines River trails, downtown East Village, and Gray's Lake.
Race weekend features a Health & Fitness Expo, a pre-race pasta dinner, a kids' Fun Run, and a lively post-race party with food and a beer garden; finishers receive a custom medal and a technical long-sleeve shirt.
Aid stations are placed roughly every 1.5–2 miles supplying water and electrolyte drink and have portolets nearby; organizers provide free shuttle service from downtown to the start—plan to arrive 60–90 minutes early for parking, bib pickup, and bag drop.
Community
Stories, tips, and race-day snapshots from runners who have tackled this course.
Community Reviews
Learn from fellow runners and share insights that will help the next person toe the line.