On the final Saturday of July annually, the Metropolis of Manistee, Michigan hosts tons of of runners within the Run the Pier Competition. This competition provides a 5K, 10K, half marathon, and full marathon possibility for runners and is among the finest methods to rejoice the center of summer season.
I ran the total marathon for the primary time this yr and have already marked my calendar for race registration opening for the 2026 occasion. Manistee, Michigan is situated on the western aspect of Michigan and is a few 4-5 hour drive from Chicago, relying on the Indiana/Illinois border site visitors that’s utterly unpredictable.
Aside from the border site visitors, the drive was fast, simple, and enjoyable because it took us via a number of small cities and exquisite surroundings alongside Lake Michigan. We arrived Friday afternoon, simply in time to seize my race packet and have a fast dinner.
Staying on the Hampton Inn & Suites – Manistee Waterfront proved to be the perfect solution to calm down earlier than the marathon. Conveniently, packet choose up was held proper on the resort, making it good for runners arriving afterward Friday.
The resort itself was distinctive, located simply off the freeway and steps away from First Road Seashore alongside the Manistee lakeshore. The seashore supplied smooth sand and clear water, creating a soothing surroundings. Extra facilities included a bar, dwell music, and a firepit overlooking the seashore, permitting friends to completely benefit from the summer season ambiance. Downtown Manistee was only a mile away; after checking in, we headed there for dinner.
We loved a fantastic meal at North Channel Brewing Firm. Since we waited about an hour for a desk, I’d advocate making reservations in the event you plan to dine downtown. Luckily, the wait offered a chance to discover the native outlets and take up the attraction of downtown Manistee.
After a restful evening, I set out early for the marathon’s 7am begin. The stroll from the resort to the beginning line was a few mile and a half—a easy, simple route to start the day. Staggered race begins ensured runners had loads of house on the course. The marathon started promptly at 7am, with cloudy skies and excessive humidity as we navigated via the town, out onto Manistee’s north pier, and across the iconic lighthouse—a memorable solution to start.
The race then adopted the lakeshore for the rest of the 26.2 miles, utilizing an out-and-back format with just a few aspect path extensions. The course included some difficult hills in the course of the center miles, however probably the most vital impediment was the humidity. About an hour into the race, clouds parted and a light-weight sprinkle offered some aid, adopted by heavier rain within the second hour. When the rain stopped and the solar emerged, the humidity intensified, making the ultimate ten miles significantly powerful. Regardless of the climate, the course was properly marked and exquisite, showcasing the sumptuous surroundings of Western Michigan and the lakefront.
Ending again on the identical park, I used to be in a position to seize snacks and rehydrate earlier than ending my day. Each runner acquired a short-sleeve t-shirt and a finishers medal.
This summer season racing competition is one I extremely advocate. Registration opens January 19, 2026, with inexpensive charges for all race distances. Mark your calendars and take into account becoming a member of me in Manistee subsequent July!
