This year marked my 9th time running the Missoula (half) Marathon and I can say it’s simply the best racing weekend. Period! I mean I’ve been returning every year since 2015 (excluding the pandemic) and I’ve ran this race more than any other, even though I’ve never lived in Montana, so that says something!

The weekend isn’t simply about the half or full marathon, far from it! The race organizers have done a phenomenal job of making it a weekend all about running so you can make the most of your time there. Those eager to run every day can participate in the Big 3 Challenge, which is accomplished by completing the Beer Run, 5k and either the half or full marathon.

Things kick off Friday night with the free fun social Beer Run in downtown Missoula. This untimed run take you past the University of Montana campus and gives a glimpse into the 5k course, although the courses are different. Although it’s a beer run, it is open to all ages and all finishers over 21 receive a ticket for a free beer courtesy of Big Sky Brewing. They even offer a hard seltzer and a non alcoholic option.

The 5k also starts in downtown Missoula on the Higgins St Bridge. It winds through the surrounding tree lined neighborhoods, past the University of Montana campus and finishes on the trail along Caras Park. While there is no post race food or beverage for the 5k, participants receive a high quality finisher shirt and amazing medal.

They also offer a race for the kiddos with the Missoula Kids Marathon. All kids receive a cute cap, bib to customize and medal. This event is untimed to make sure it is fun and inspiring.

Finally, the weekend wraps up with the main event on Sunday, which for me was the half marathon. As this is an A-Z course, all participants for either the half or full have to take a shuttle from the University of Montana campus to the respective start line. Thankfully there is ample parking between downtown and the campus parking lot, although I highly recommend parking on the downtown streets to avoid the congestion on campus. It’s a quick walk to campus and is well marked. To be safe, you can walk from Caras Park to the campus the day before so you are familiar with the route. The shuttles are very well organized and I’ve never had to wait long. Once dropped off at the start area, there are porta-potties and gear check, however I’d recommend using the bathroom early as they get very crowded close to start time.

One of the benefits of starting early is the opportunity to watch the sun rise over the surrounding mountain range- make sure to have your camera ready for a photo!

The start of the race weaves through the beautiful countryside and along the river for the first few miles. The first 3 miles are a net downhill before it flattens out for the remainder of the race with a couple of very minor “hills”. The majority of the course is through the rural neighborhoods of Missoula and the community shows up every year to support the runners. The final stretch takes you on a right turn to the Higgins Bridge where you push to victory.

The finisher goodies include another awesome finisher shirt and medal, along with some post race food and another beer/hard seltzer for the 21+ crowd. They do offer pop and water as well.

A perk of this race is that they offer free course photos, which are ready within a day along with timely results.

There is so much to explore and do while in Missoula, it’s truly an amazing racecation to be enjoyed solo or with friends and family, there is something for everyone! I know I’ll continue to return every year!