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:

• Historic Sites: The Historic General Dodge House, Council Bluffs Union Station, and the Golden Spike Monument.
• National Trails: Portions of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail and the historic Mormon Trail.
• Scenic Views: Beautiful landscapes along the Missouri River and Lake Manawa.
• Community Feel: Journey through the heart of Council Bluffs.

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:

• Latest Information: Packet pickup, parking, course details, and schedules.
• Spectator Information: Logistics for race weekend.
• Bookmark This Page: Check back often and get weekly updates leading to race day.
• Team Assistance: Contact us anytime for questions or concerns.

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:

• High: Around 64°F (18°C)
• Low: Near 40°F (4°C)
• Conditions: Partly cloudy skies with moderate winds averaging around 16 mph.
• Precipitation: 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. 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: 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: 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM CST

Schedule Subject To Change

Saturday, April 24, 2027 - Race Day

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

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

• ID Required: A copy or photo of their government-issued ID.
• Waiver: A printed copy of the signed waiver(s).
• Additional Info: More 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 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.

Are dogs allowed on the course?
We love dogs