Running Events on Mackinac Island: 4 of the world’s most beautiful road races

Remember your New Year’s resolution? Two of Americans’ most common resolutions year after year are to lose weight and get in shape. In fact, nearly two-thirds of Americans aspire to lose weight and more than five out of six resolve to stay fit and healthy.

Well, you can do something about that on Mackinac Island, while at the same time making progress on other resolutions such as traveling more and enjoying life to the fullest. Mackinac Island is home to four unique running events that combine fitness and leisure in a way few other road races around the world can do.

Runners leave the starting line at Mackinac Island's Mission Point Resort during the Great Turtle Trail Run half marathon.

Mackinac Island’s Fort2Fort 5 Mile Challenge

Start with a rifle blast at historic Fort Mackinac, overlooking the gorgeous Straits of Mackinac. Then head uphill to Fort Holmes, the highest point on Mackinac Island, for an even more stunning view. Finish up with a winding, downhill trek back to Fort Mackinac. More info on Mackinac Island’s Fort2Fort 5 Mile Challenge

A crowd of runners leaves the starting line at one of Mackinac Island's scenic annual road races

Mackinac Island Lilac Festival 10K Run & Walk

Head east through historic downtown Mackinac Island. Then veer in – and up! – toward the middle of the island. Cruise through the paved roads in the interior of Mackinac Island, then return to the waterfront for a last leg with inspirational views of the water. More info on the Mackinac Island Lilac Festival 10K Run & Walk

Runners and walkers pass by a Mackinac Island cottage on the bluff during one of the island's annual road races

Mackinac Island Eight Mile

Start at Mission Point Resort and run or walk all the way around Mackinac Island on M-185, the only state highway in the country that prohibits motor vehicles. The fast and flat, clockwise loop around the outer rim of the island breezes by Victorian homes and downtown shops while offering awesome views of the Mackinac Bridge. More info on the Mackinac Island Eight Mile

A group of runners passes by trees with gorgeous fall colors during Mackinac Island's annual Great Turtle Trail Run

Mackinac Island’s Great Turtle Trail Run

Start at Mission Point Resort and embark on a half-marathon or a 5.7-mile run/walk. Either way you get to enjoy one of the most scenic trail events in Michigan, journeying into Mackinac Island’s wooded paths and seeing breathtaking sights of Lake Huron as you pass by the iconic Arch Rock. More info on Mackinac Island’s Great Turtle Trail Run

With four great road races in the same beautiful place, you can keep your New Year’s resolution while experiencing the splendor of Mackinac Island – in spring, summer and fall – all at the same time! And if you complete either the Fort2Fort 5 Mile Challenge or the Lilac Festival 10K Run & Walk and both the Mackinac Island Eight Mile and the Great Turtle Trail Run, you’ll complete the Trio and receive a special, supersized Mackinac Island Trio Series medal!

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