Run The NorthShore Important Information
Both the Aspirus Health Half Marathon and the Finden Marketing Tunnel 10k are key running events during the NorthShore Inline Marathon Weekend in Duluth. The entire weekend centers around movement, community, and celebrating the North Shore. Between the Skate and Health Expo at the DECC, packed spectator zones, and the electric race morning atmosphere, runners get the same high energy and support that the inline athletes experience. It creates a full Duluth event weekend that feels bigger than a single race.
Friday, September 18th, 2026
Packet Pickup – 12pm – 9pm (DECC Pioneer Hall)
Rollerblade Health Expo – 12pm – 9pm (DECC Pioneer Hall)
Northern Lights Foundation Kid Sprints – 4:30pm
Saturday, September 19th, 2026:
5:15 am – 5:45 am Half Marathon Bussing Pickup (Next To DECC Parking Lot)
6:35 am – Half Marathon National Anthems
7:00 am – Aspirus-St. Luke’s Half Marathon Running Race Star
8:00 am – Finden Tunnel 10K Running Race Start
10k Doesn’t require bussing (Click Here For Starting Line Pin)
10:30 Run Awards
12:00 pm – Oktoberfest After Party Opens
The NorthShore Inline Marathon weekend has earned statewide recognition, having been named “Minnesota’s Best Annual Sports Event or Race” by the Star Tribune. This distinction highlights the event’s exceptional organization, community impact, and its ability to attract runners and skaters from across the region. For participants in the 10k or half-marathon, that means stepping into a race series celebrated for its quality and magnitude.
Aspirus Health Half Marathon
Begins north of Duluth along Highway 61. This is a point to point course and runners must take the morning shuttle from the DECC to the starting line.
Finden Marketing Tunnel 10k
Starts directly on I-35 near the Duluth Depot. I-35 is fully closed for the event and the start is an easy walk from the DECC.
The DECC is the main parking area for both races.
Half marathon runners will board morning shuttle buses at the DECC to reach the starting line.
Tunnel 10k runners do not need a shuttle and can simply walk from the DECC parking lot to the start.
Plan extra time since I-35 and surrounding streets are closed for event operations.
Packet pickup takes place on Friday at the Skate and Health Expo inside DECC Pioneer Hall.
Hours typically run from 12 pm to 9 pm.
Runners pick up their race bib, timing chip, and race shirt.
Race day pickup is very limited, so attending the Friday expo is strongly encouraged.
Half Marathon
A scenic point to point route along Lake Superior with cool morning air, gentle terrain, and a memorable final approach into Duluth.
Tunnel 10k
A fast and smooth course starting on I-35 before entering the famous Duluth interstate tunnels and finishing near the William A Irvin. The tunnel section offers steady footing and a unique atmosphere you cannot experience on any other day of the year.
Both courses include aid stations, course support, and staffed intersections.
See full course descriptions here:
I-35 will be fully closed for the 10k start and the tunnel section.
The scenic highway will also be restricted for runners.
Spectators should follow signs and use designated viewing areas.
Please be prepared for delays when driving in and out of Canal Park or the DECC.
Both races use chip timing.
Results are posted online shortly after the finish.
Overall and age group awards are listed on the event results page.
Mornings in Duluth are typically cool with lake breezes.
Layers are encouraged for the early start.
Conditions on the lakeshore can shift quickly, so prepare for changing temperatures.
Runners finish near the William A Irvin and the Bayfront area.
The finish zone includes refreshments, volunteers, and spectator energy.
The surrounding Canal Park area is easy for family and friends to explore while waiting.
The St. Luke’s Half Marathon was my first half marathon and it far exceeded my expectations! Running down the beautiful shore and ending by the bridge was an experience everyone should have. It was a well organized race Very fun and would recommend to anyone no matter their skill level.
As someone who loves running, I must say that this race is one of a kind. I have done the Tunnel 10k for the past two years and have loved every minute of it. It’s a fun race with a really unique route. Would definitely recommend it to runners of all skill levels.
It was my first half so that was daunting in and of itself. The run views made the 13.1 go by with ease though. Would definitely recommend it to anyone that is looking for a low-key half marathon to be a part of. It was very well planned and you honestly cannot beat the route.
