Prairie & Pines 5k and Half Marathon
Get ready for a weekend of running, community, and scenic beauty at the Prairie & Pines 5K and Half Marathon in Marshall, Minnesota! Kick things off on Saturday evening, August 8, 2026, with the Prairie & Pines 5K—a relaxed, family-friendly fun run perfect for all ages and ability levels. Starting at 6:00 PM, this event invites runners, walkers, and families to enjoy a welcoming atmosphere along the picturesque Camden Regional Trail. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just soaking in the summer evening, the 5K is all about fun, fitness, and fresh air.
Then, rise and shine on Sunday morning, August 9, 2026, for the Prairie & Pines Half Marathon. Beginning at 8:00 AM, this professionally chip-timed race offers a more competitive experience while still showcasing the same stunning natural surroundings. The race will take you through the beautiful SMSU campus, the ADM environmental learning trail before meeting up with the Camden Regional Trail, on the outskirts of town. This trail brings everything you love about southwest Minnesota making every mile as enjoyable as it is memorable.
Both races start and finish at the Red Baron Arena, creating a central hub for participants and spectators alike. Even better, every step you take supports a great cause—proceeds from both events benefit the Marshall Area YMCA’s services and programs, helping strengthen the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Come for the run, stay for the impact, and be part of something meaningful at the Prairie & Pines 5K and Half Marathon.
Pricing & Giveaway Information
Register by 7/8 to receive a cooling towel (5k registrants) or a t-shirt (half marathon registrants). Prices for both events will increase on 7/9 and 8/3 - be sure to register by 7/8 to ensure early bird pricing! **DISCOUNT** Sign up for the 5k and Half Marathon and receive a $10 discount and both giveaways!
Packet Pick Up Information
Pick Up will be organized on 8/8 starting at 4:30pm for both the 5k and the Half Marathon. If you are running the Half Marathon you may also pick up your packet race day morning, 8/9 starting at 6:30am.
Post Event Festivities
The celebration starts at the finish line—great food trucks, music, and a lively crowd coming together to relax and recharge. Swap race stories, enjoy good eats, and soak in the community spirit that makes the day unforgettable. Enjoy the following local food trucks after your race:
- Taqueria el Tarasco (8/8 and 8/9)
- Asian Hut (8/8 only)
- Rolling Hills Pizza (8/8 Only)
- Lemon Ladies (8/9 only)
Other Important Information
The Red Baron Arena will have restrooms available both before and after the 5k and half marathon. There will be a limited number of cooling towels (5k) and t-shirts (half marathon) for those who did not register before the July 8th deadline, but these will be distributed on a first-come-first-served basis. There will be water available at the halfway point of the 5k. Water, porta potties, and first aid will be available every 2-3 miles of the half marathon. Volunteers will be available to assist with road crossings, but roads will not be closed, so please be aware of your surroundings at all times!
HALF MARATHON ONLY: We will offer medals for the top 3 finishers for both men and women in each age division. Strollers will not be permitted in the half marathon as they increase the potential for injury to race participants and children. There is a 4-hour time limit for the half marathon - you may finish the race on your own but after 12pm there will no longer be volunteers at the road crossings, and we will begin shutting down the first aid/water/toilet stations. Please tag the YMCA and Visit Marshall and let us be able to celebrate your accomplishment together!