Runners hug the shoreline for most of the 13.1-mile route at the “University of Okoboji” Half Marathon, which is part of a race day that also includes a full marathon, triathlon and 10K that wind around West Okoboji Lake here in northwestern Iowa. Featuring mostly gently rolling hills alternating with flat stretches along the lakeshore, the race’s biggest challenge, past runners note, is likely to be heat and humidity thanks to its mid-July running.
(MORE: University of Okoboji Half Marathon event details)