Saturday, May 3, 2025 • Riceville, IA
Gear up for the IronHorse Races, a thrilling event featuring a Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K Run, all sanctioned by USATF. The Full Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K races are USATF Certified, and the courses unfold on the scenic Wapsi-Great Western Line (WGWL) Trail in Riceville, Iowa, and the Shooting Star Trail in Minnesota. With a Northern Branch and a Southern Branch, the WGWL Trail provides a rails-to-trails experience, boasting a paved and concrete surface.
Runners can expect varied terrains, from railroad level grades on paved trails for 5K and 10K participants to winding woodlands for Full and Half Marathon runners, including a four-mile crushed rock section for Full Marathoners. Shuttles ensure convenient transportation for Full and Half Marathon racers, enhancing safety.
Enjoy a picturesque journey through rural landscapes, featuring Amish farming, wind turbine farms, an Oak savanna, wetland boardwalks, and quaint villages. Awards await the top three finishers in each gender across all races, with unique finisher awards for Full and Half Marathon participants.
Conveniently located in Riceville, Iowa, the event offers ample lodging options and is easily accessible from nearby cities. The IronHorse Races promise an unforgettable frontier spirit, echoing the industrial revolution’s impact on America, while proceeds contribute directly to nature preservation, restoration, and trail enhancements. Experience the thrill and scenic beauty of the IronHorse Races while supporting a great cause.
Race Weather & Climate
Riceville is situated in the northeastern part of Iowa, serving as a city in Howard County. Located approximately 40 miles south of Rochester, Minnesota, Riceville is a small, close-knit community with a rural character. As part of northeastern Iowa, it provides residents with a peaceful setting while being within a short distance of larger urban centers for additional amenities and services.
On May 3rd in Riceville, anticipate an average high temperature of around 64°F and a low of approximately 42°F. Spring is in full swing, providing mild and comfortable days with cool nights. The weather reflects the blossoming season, and May typically sees an average rainfall of about 4 inches in Riceville.
IronHorse Half Marathon Race Results
IronHorse Half Marathon Course Map
See the race route map for the IronHorse Half Marathon course map here.
Starting Time
The half marathon start time is 7:15 AM CDT.
The course closes at 10:30 AM CDT.
Registration
To reserve your spot in the 2025 IronHorse Half Marathon, you can use the registration link here.
Race Fees
- There is a $65.00 fee for the half marathon.
- There is a $75.00 fee for the marathon.
- There is a $30.00 fee for the 10k.
- There is a $20.00 fee for the 5k.
IronHorse Half Marathon Race Website
IronHorse Half Marathon Website
