Marquette Trail 50

Event overview

The Marquette Trail 50 is a trail ultramarathon weekend in Marquette, Michigan, at the Noquemanon Trail Network - Forestville Trailhead. The event offers the following distances:

• 50 Mile
• 50K
• 1 Mile (kids trail race, Friday evening)

Race dates are August 14-15, 2026. Registration opens November 28, 2025 and closes August 7, 2026 or when capacity is reached. Registrations are non-refundable and non-transferable. Race capacity is 175 entries for the 50 Mile and 375 entries for the 50K. Time limits are 15 hours for the 50 Mile and 12 hours for the 50K.

Course, aid, and logistics

The course is mostly single-track and climbs four named peaks - Sugarloaf, Top-of-the-World, Bareback, and Hogback. Portions of the route offer views of Lake Superior and skirt the shoreline. Terrain is described as moderate to difficult with significant climbs and technical sections; surface is reported to include substantial rocks, roots, and ruts. Cellular service is limited or not available on most of the route.

Aid stations are cupless and provide water, electrolyte drink, soda, gels, fruit, cookies, PBJ sandwiches, pretzels, potato chips, granola bars, and candy. Runners must carry a bottle, cup, or hydration system for refills. Parking at Forestville Trailhead is limited; preference is given to vehicles with multiple racers and some parking along the road may be required.

Training and volunteers

Two training runs are scheduled in June and July 2026 on looped sections of the course; the short loop meets at the Forestville Trailhead and the longer 4-peaks loop meets near the Sugarloaf parking lot. Training runs may be non-supported; participants should carry their own water, nutrition, and any required medications. Volunteers receive event merchandise and may earn a complimentary future entry for a full day of service (8+ hours). Merchandise ordered during registration must be picked up on race day. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.