Lewis & Clark Marathon, 1/2 Marathon, 5k and 1-Mile Fun Run

Lewis & Clark Marathon
April 24, 2027 | Council Bluffs, Iowa

Step into history and begin your next chapter at the inaugural Lewis & Clark Marathon. Featuring a Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K, and Kids 1-Mile Fun Run, this unique event blends scenic riverfront running with one of America's most historic landscapes.

The course follows a combination of paved roads and paved recreational trails, taking runners along the banks of the mighty Missouri River, around beautiful Lake Manawa, and through the heart of historic downtown Council Bluffs.

Along the way, participants will experience landmarks that helped shape our nation's story, including the Historic General Dodge House, Council Bluffs Union Station, the Golden Spike Monument, portions of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, and the historic Mormon Trail, where the Mormon Battalion assembled before the westward migration.

Designed as a fast course, runners will enjoy mostly flat terrain with gentle rolling hills that provide just enough variety while remaining ideal for personal bests.

The Marathon follows a scenic loop course, while the Half Marathon, 5K, and Kids Fun Run feature easy-to-follow out-and-back routes.

Whether you're chasing a personal record, completing your first race, or simply looking for an unforgettable destination event, the Lewis & Clark Marathon in Council Bluffs, Iowa offers a one-of-a-kind experience where history, community, and the spirit of exploration come together.

Race Distances

Marathon (26.2 Miles)
Half Marathon (13.1 Miles)
5K
Kids 1-Mile Fun Run

Come discover the Missouri Valley.

Run where explorers, pioneers, presidents, dreamers... and now you begin the next chapter.

Before You Ask...

Welcome! We're excited to have you join us for the Lewis & Clark Marathon. Below you'll find details about everything you'll need to know.

As we continue building an unforgettable race-day experience, this page will be updated regularly with the latest information about packet pickup, parking, course details, schedules, spectator information, and race weekend logistics.

We recommend bookmarking this page and checking back often, especially as race weekend approaches, to ensure you have the most current information. You'll also get weekly emails from our team counting down to race day, offering nutrition and training plans for free and updates. 

If you can't find the answer you're looking for, we're always happy to help. Simply contact our team, and we'll get back to you as quickly as possible.

Thank you for being part of the journey.

Run where history began.

Weather

On April 24th at Tom Hanafan River's Edge Park in Council Bluffs, the typical weather features a daily high of around 64°F (18°C) and an overnight low near 40°F (4°C). The area experiences partly cloudy skies, moderate winds averaging around 16 mph, and a light but noticeable chance of spring rain.

Our Story

Every runner has a story.

Some run to compete. Some run for health. Some run to see how far they can go. Others run because the road has become a place to process life's hardest moments.

I'm one of those runners.

Running has been more than exercise in my life. It has been a place to think, to heal, to grow, and to keep moving forward. Along the way, I've met countless runners whose stories are different than mine, but whose reasons for running feel remarkably familiar. We all carry something. We all keep taking the next step.

The Lewis & Clark Marathon was created to celebrate that journey.

Inspired by the explorers who launched into the unknown from the Missouri Valley, this race is about more than crossing a finish line. It's about discovering what you're capable of, finding strength you didn't know you had, and remembering that every great journey begins with a single step.

Our hope is that this event becomes more than an annual race. We want it to become a tradition that brings together runners, families, volunteers, businesses, and an entire community around something bigger than ourselves.

A core part of that vision is supporting families affected by childhood trauma. Every community has children and families carrying burdens that often go unseen. We believe healthy outlets, meaningful relationships, and strong communities can make a lasting difference, and we are committed to using this event to help create hope, awareness, and support.

Whether you're chasing a personal best, running your first 5K, encouraging a child during the Kids 1-Mile Fun Run, volunteering, or cheering from the sidelines, you are becoming part of something much bigger than race day.

You're becoming part of a community that believes resilience is built one step at a time.

Welcome to the Lewis & Clark Marathon.

Run where history began.

Race Weekend Schedule

Friday, April 23, 2027 - Health & Wellness Expo & Packet Pick-up
Location: TBA  Time: 3:00p-8:00p CST

Schedule Subject To Change

Saturday, April 24, 2027 - Race Day

4:00am    Parking Opens
6:25am    National Anthem
6:32am    Marathon Start - 9 hour course time limit
7:32am    Half Marathon Start - 8 hour course time limit
8:32am    5K Start - 7 hour course time limit
9:00am    Festival Area Opens
9:00am    Food Area Opens          
9:02pm    Kids 1-Mile Fun Run Starts
3:30pm    Finish Line Closes
4:00pm    Festival Area Closes

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I change my race distance?
Need to switch from the Marathon to the Half Marathon? Move up to a longer distance? No problem.

Log in to your RunSignup account by clicking the profile icon at the top of this page or by using the link in your registration confirmation email.

Select Manage Registration and follow the prompts to transfer to another race distance. Transfers to a shorter distance are free. Transfers to a longer distance require payment of the price difference. If you need assistance, we're happy to help. Contact us anytime.

Can I pick up a race packet for someone else?
Yes. You may pick up a packet for another participant with:

A copy or photo of their government-issued ID. A printed copy of the signed waiver(s). Additional packet pickup information will be posted as race day approaches.

Is parking available?
Yes. Free participant parking will be available near the start/finish area.

Detailed parking maps and directions will be published and emailed prior to race weekend.

What is the minimum age for each event?
We recommend the following minimum ages:

Marathon: 14+
Half Marathon: 12+
5K: 6+
Kids 1-Mile Fun Run: Recommended for young runners of all abilities with parent or guardian guidance.
Parents and guardians know their children best and should determine the appropriate distance based on each child's experience and ability. The above are recommendations and not requirements. 

Are dogs allowed on the course?
We love dogs! For the safety of all participants, pets are not permitted on the course.

Bicycles, skateboards, scooters, rollerblades, and similar devices are also prohibited.

Are strollers allowed?
Yes. Jogging strollers are welcome in the 5K and Kids 1-Mile Fun Run.

For participant safety, strollers are not permitted in the Marathon or Half Marathon.

Children riding in strollers do not need to be registered unless you would like them to receive an official race shirt and finisher medal.

Will race day registration be available?
If races have not reached capacity, registration may be available on race morning.

We encourage everyone to register early, as some events may sell out before race day.

Will race day packet pickup be available?
Yes. Limited race morning packet pickup will be available.

Additional details, times, and any applicable fees will be announced closer to race weekend.

Will there be gear check?
Yes.

Complimentary gear check will be available near the start/finish area for registered participants.

Please bring your own bag and attach your bib's gear check tag before checking your belongings.

Is the Lewis & Clark Marathon a Boston Qualifier?
Course certification and Boston Qualifier status will be announced as soon as certification is complete.

Can I run with headphones?
Yes.

For your safety, we encourage runners to keep one ear free so they can hear race officials, volunteers, emergency vehicles, and other participants.

Staying aware helps keep everyone safe and ensures you don't miss important course instructions.

Can family and friends watch along the course?
Absolutely!

One of the highlights of the Lewis & Clark Marathon is the opportunity for spectators to cheer runners on throughout the course.

Course maps, recommended viewing locations, parking, and road closure information will be published before race weekend.

Can someone cross the finish line with me?
For the safety of all participants, only registered runners may enter the finish chute and cross the official finish line.

Friends and family are encouraged to celebrate with you immediately after you receive your finisher medal.

Is the course beginner friendly?
Absolutely.

Whether you're training for your first 5K or chasing a marathon personal best, the Lewis & Clark Marathon welcomes runners and walkers of all experience levels.

The Marathon course is designed to be a fast loop with mostly flat terrain and gentle rolling hills. The Half Marathon follows a scenic out-and-back course, while the 5K and Kids 1-Mile Fun Run provide an unforgettable race-day experience for participants of all ages.

No matter where you are on your running journey, we'd be honored to have you join us.

Why the Lewis & Clark Marathon?
Because every great journey begins with a single step. This race more than any other will celebrate the starting line as much as the finish line. 

The Lewis & Clark Marathon celebrates exploration, perseverance, community, and the spirit of moving forward. Whether you're chasing a personal record, completing your first race, or simply enjoying the experience with family and friends, you're becoming part of a tradition built on resilience, connection, and discovery.

Run where history began.