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Michigan > Betsie Valley Run Half Marathon, 10K & 5K
Thompsonville, MI • Sunday, October 6, 2013 • Course Map
Set for its 7th annual running of the combination of flat stretches and occasionally steep and challenging hills along the Betsie Valley Trail in the northern part of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, the Betsie Valley Run -- which also includes a 10K and a 5K for runners and walkers -- shows off some of the state's most scenic areas at the height of the fall season, when the gorgeous autumn leaves are making their transition to the full spectrum of red, yellow and orange.
The 13.1-mile half marathon stars and finishes at Crystal Mountain Resort, a ski and golf resort that lies about three miles to the west of Thompsonville, and takes participants on an out-and-back loop route from the resort through Thompsonville and out onto several miles of the 22-mile Betsie Valley Trail. Once it reaches Pioneer Road, the course turns sharply southward and then begins the long, steady stretch back to the finish line near the resort.
Designed for hiking, walking, running and biking, the Betsie Valley Trail is part of a rails-to-trails initiative that converted the former Ann Arbor Railroad into a trail that runs from Thompsonville all the way to the shores of Lake Michigan, ending near the towns of Frankfort and Elberta, Mich. Along the way, runners and walkers cross a combination of paved/asphalt and compacted stone trails, as well as several wooden bridges over the numerous streams and creeks along the trail.
Those thinking of taking part in the race should be ready for at least a few significant hills in this race, particularly in the last few miles -- there are two steep hills that rise up between the 10- and 12-mile markers, rising and quickly falling about 50 feet in elevation each. The last mile of the course (thankfully!) is a long, flat stretch toward the finish.
Race
Weather & Climate
Nestled among the mountainous areas of the western edge of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, the town of Thompsonville generally experiences mild to cool and sometimes cold weather in the early fall.
In October, average monthly temperatures range between 42°F and 57°F, while rainfall totals average just over 3.2 inches for the month. On the day of the race (Oct. 6), the average low is 46°F and the average high is 62°F.
Course Map
View the race route map for the Betsie Valley Run Half Marathon
Starting Times
9:00 AM - adult races
11:30 AM - kids' races
Fees
$40 for the half marathon, if registered by August 1, 2013
$50 after Aug. 1
Registration
To reserve your spot in the early fall 2013 running of Thompsonville's Betsie Valley Run Half Marathon, 10K or 5K race, register online at the event website.
Official Race Website
betsievalleyrun.com
Leave a Comment
Ever run in Michigan's annual Betsie Valley Run Half Marathon? Share your impressions, stories and tips from the event.
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