IronHorse Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K

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.