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Which races deserve the top spot in each state for 2026?
Iowa has 7 active marathons this year. Races are most common in October, September, and May. Course terrain for these courses is most often rolling hills or hilly. Typical race day temperatures range from 41°F to 73°F.
Popular races include the Des Moines Marathon, Des Moines St. Paddys Marathon, and Wabash Trace Nature Trail Marathon. There are 2 new marathons in Iowa this year — Cedar Rapids Marathon and Kewash Marathon. 5 certified courses can be great Boston qualifier options. Races with the best Boston qualifying percentages include the Des Moines Marathon — 8.9% BQ and Des Moines St. Paddys Marathon — 5.7% BQ.
| Iowa Marathons |
 Course
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PR Score
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Des Moines St. Paddys MarathonDes Moines, IA03/14/2026 | ![]() Rolling Hills![]() 210 Finishers |
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Kewash MarathonWashington, IA04/25/2026 | ![]() Rolling Hills
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IronHorse MarathonRiceville, IA05/02/2026 | ![]() Rolling Hills![]() 41 Finishers |
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Cedar Rapids MarathonCedar Rapids, IA06/07/2026 | ![]() Rolling Hills
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Moorehead Park Trail MazathonIda Grove, IA08/02/2025 | ![]() Hilly![]() 15 Finishers |
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Wabash Trace Nature Trail MarathonShenandoah, IA09/13/2025 | ![]() Rolling Hills![]() 45 Finishers |
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Des Moines MarathonDes Moines, IA10/18/2026 | ![]() Rolling Hills![]() 1,889 Finishers |
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