Spring Awakening 10k, 5k, 1-Mile Kids Dash

Race Overview

• Date: 2026-05-16
• Location: 318 Shelden Avenue, Houghton, MI
• URL: Spring Awakening Race
• Events: 10k, 5k, 1-Mile Kids Dash

Race Description

• Scenic Route: The Spring Awakening 10k & 5k Run offers a scenic run along the Houghton canal.
• Spring Kickoff: An opportunity to kick off your running season with the snow melt and warmer temperatures of late April & early May.
• Course Experience: The course is an out and back on the bike path, giving you the full experience of the Keweenaw Waterway.
• Start/End: All races will begin and end at Kestner Waterfront Park in Houghton.

Training Opportunities

• Spring Training: A great way to jump into spring and early summer training.
• Stepping Stone: Perfect for those looking to complete the Canal Run Half-Marathon.
• 5k Availability: For those seeking a shorter distance, our 5k is a perfect match!
• Training Program: Follow along with our 6-week 5K training program leading up to the race.

Proceeds

• Beneficiary: Proceeds from this race will be donated to Special Olympics Area 39.
• Kid's Event: Don’t forget the kids! We are also hosting a Spring Awakening Kid's 1 Mile Dash.

Race Giveaways

• Participation Perks: All racers that participate in the 5k or 10k runs will receive a Spring Awakening 5k/10k race medal and race t-shirt!

Awards

• Top Finishers: The top three male and female finishers of the 5k/10k receive awards!
• 1st Place: Free shoes from Queen City Running Co! Can be used at all 3 locations (Marquette, Houghton, & Iron Mountain)
• 2nd Place: $50 gift certificate to Queen City Running Co! Can be used at all 3 locations (Marquette, Houghton, & Iron Mountain)
• 3rd Place: Free Goodr sunglasses from Queen City Running Co! Can be used at all 3 locations (Marquette, Houghton, & Iron Mountain)
• Ceremony: An awards ceremony will be held after the race!

Timing

• Timing Service: This year we will be using the services of Superior Timing to time this race!
• Chip Timing: Chip timing will be provided for the 10k and 5k races!

Bib and Packet Pick-Up

• Start Time: Bib & packet pick-up will take place starting at 8:00am in the park pavilion.
• Aid Station: An aid station will be provided for the 10k run.

Race Route

• Starting Point: All races will start at the bike path connected to Kestner Waterfront Park's Parking Lot and continue east along the canal path.

5k Route

• Turnaround: Route will be a traditional Out and Back with the turnaround being just past East Houghton Waterfront Park.

10k Route

• Turnaround: Route will be a traditional Out and Back with the turnaround being near Sandpiper Drive. Aid station will be provided at the turnaround.

1-Mile Route

• Turnaround: Route will be a traditional Out and Back with the turnaround taking place underneath the lift bridge.