About Our Duluth Half Marathon Course

Aspirus Health Half Marathon

The Aspirus Health Half Marathon follows one of the most scenic point to point routes in the Midwest. The race begins north of Duluth on the scenic Highway 61 corridor. Runners start near the edge of the woods, with cool morning air and steady lake breezes that make the opening miles feel smooth and relaxed.

The first stretch moves gently downhill with long, open views of Lake Superior. This part of the course is known for steady pacing and calm footing. Runners pass stands of pine and birch that line the shoreline, giving the race a quiet, peaceful feel before entering the city limits.

Around the middle miles the course continues south toward Duluth. The terrain stays mostly flat with a few slight rollers that help break up the rhythm in a natural way. The lake remains visible on the left side for long portions of the route, and the cool off-lake wind often helps runners hold their pace.

Once runners reach the London Road area, the energy begins to build. This section brings a mix of residential neighborhoods, cheering pockets of spectators, and steady straightaways that make it easy to settle into a strong final push. The road widens, the crowds grow, and the city atmosphere becomes part of the experience.

The final miles bring runners onto Duluth’s lakefront. This is where the course becomes especially memorable. Lake Superior sits just a short distance from the path, waves often sounding in the background. The finish is fast and flat with great visibility, which makes for a strong and confident closing stretch.

The final miles bring runners onto the interstate for a controlled stretch down I-35 before exiting into Canal Park. Lake Superior sits only a short distance away and the sounds of the shoreline make the approach to the finish even more memorable. The course closes out with a fast, flat straightaway leading toward the historic William A. Irvin ship.

Runners cross the line next to the ship surrounded by fans, volunteers, and Duluth’s iconic harbor. It is a beautiful way to finish thirteen miles and a course that captures everything people enjoy about running on the North Shore.

What Makes This Half Marathon Different?

Iconic Lake Superior shoreline views that make the course internationally renowned
A high energy finish line in Canal Park that creates a memorable end to the race
Award winning quality, recognized as Minnesota’s Best Annual Race in 2025

About Our Tunnel 10k Course

Finden marketing Tunnel 10k

The Finden Marketing Tunnel 10k begins on a controlled section of I-35 next to The Duluth Depot, giving runners a wide and steady starting area that makes it easy to settle into an early rhythm. The opening stretch offers smooth pavement and gentle grades as the course heads south toward one of its most memorable features, the Duluth tunnel.

The run into the tunnel is gradual, and the moment runners enter, the atmosphere shifts. The enclosed space creates cool air, steady footing, and a natural echo that adds energy to every step. The tunnel provides a long, slightly downhill section that helps runners find a strong and consistent pace. It is one of the highlights of the race and a defining part of the 10k experience.

After emerging from the tunnel, the course opens up to views of Lake Superior. This section feels fast and refreshing thanks to the lake breeze and the gradual downhill that leads runners toward Canal Park. The roadway stays wide and predictable, which makes it easy to maintain momentum through the middle miles.

As the course approaches the lakefront, the crowds begin to build. The final stretch carries runners past familiar Duluth landmarks before guiding them toward the harbor. The finish line sits next to the historic William A. Irvin ship, creating a strong and scenic end point that matches the character of the course.

The Tunnel 10k delivers a smooth, exciting route that blends city running, iconic features, and lakefront views. It is approachable for newer runners and still rewarding for those chasing speed, all while showcasing the spirit of Duluth.

Getting to the Start:

How to Walk From the DECC Parking Lot to the Tunnel 10k Start

The starting line is .1 miles from the DECC Parking lot. To get to the starting line follow these instructions
1) park your car in the DECC parking lot (Or walk to the DECC parking lot)
2) Start walking towards Amsoil Arena
3) Walk past amsoil arena as if you were going to Bayfront Park
4) At the street turn right and walk up Harbor Drive
5) Walk until you get to the second off ramp on your left
6) You have made it to the starting line!
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Aspirus Health Half Marathon & Finden Marketing 10K

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September 19, 2026