Wausau Marathon
When is Wausau Marathon?
Wausau Marathon takes place on Sunday, August 23, 2026 in Wausau, WI.
What distances does Wausau Marathon offer?
Wausau Marathon offers 4 events: Wausau 5K, Wausau Half Marathon, Wausau Marathon, Wausau Marathon RELAY.
| Event | Distance | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wausau 5K | 3.1 mi | $0.00 | Register |
| Wausau Half Marathon | 13.1 mi | $65.00 | Register |
| Wausau Marathon | 26.2 mi | $80.00 | Register |
| Wausau Marathon RELAY | 26.2 mi | $160.00 | Register |
How much does Wausau Marathon cost?
Registration for Wausau Marathon starts at $0.00. Prices vary by event distance.
Where is Wausau Marathon held?
Wausau Marathon is held in Wausau, WI at 1201 Stewart Ave.
About Wausau Marathon
Experience the 15th Annual Wausau Marathon!
Join us on Sunday, August 23th, 2026, for a wonderful race experience. The Wausau Marathon features a Marathon, Half Marathon, and a free 5K, offering something for every runner.
The course takes you over the stunning Wisconsin River and through some of the most scenic parts of the region. Runners from across the country join us each year, making this a truly special community event.
The course is USATF certified and can be used as a Boston, Chicago, and New York Marathon qualifier. The cutoff for the Boston Marathon is the middle of September, making the Wausau Marathon one of the last opportunities to qualify for next year's race. 9.5% of our field qualified in 2025!
Course Maps
Full Marathon Course Link - Strava Link
This course begins in Marathon Park in Wausau, you will run through the surrounding communities of Schofield, Weston, Rothschild, and Rib Mountain before returning to Marathon Park. Runners will have the unique experience of crossing the Wisconsin River three times on this route. It is gently rolling, with the most substantial climb coming just before mile 5. The course offers a great opportunity for a PR and one of the final opportunities to qualify for the Boston Marathon, before the September cutoff. USATF # WI24016DM
Half Marathon Course Link - Strava Link
The route takes runners across the Wisconsin River and to the northern point of the beautiful Riverlife trail before sending runners south on River Dr and then back on to the southern portion of the Riverlife trail. Runners will then travel along Forest Avenue before heading south to the Marathon County Sports Complex, the hilliest portion of the course. Runners will exit the sports complex and briefly head north before heading west across the Wisconsin River again, this time on the Thomas St bridge. The closing section of the course will take participants down Sherman Ave to 17th Ave where they will merge with the marathon course. Marathon Park will be in sight at this stage, a right on Stewart Ave will bring runners back to the entrance of Marathon Park and a nice downhill finish to complete the course! USATF # WI24015DM
5K Course Link
The 5k course begins and ends in Marathon Park. Runners will travel around the interior roads of Marathon Park before exiting to the south. You will turn around on 6th Ave and return to the park the same way you left. There will be one aid station on this route.
FAQ's
Q: I have a question, who do I contact?
A: You can contact this event by emailing wausaumarathon@gmail.com.
Q: Can I use this race to qualify for the Boston, Chicago, and New York Marathons?
A: Yes! The full and half marathon courses are USATF certified and can be used to qualify for any Abbott world major.
Q: Is this course signed and marked accurately?
A: Yes! We have revamped the course marking to ensure the best course marking available!
Q: Why aren't race shirts included in the race fee?
A: The Wausau Marathon is one of the lowest priced marathon and half marathon events in the entire Midwest. Our goal is to keep our event affordable for anyone who wants to participate. In an effort to keep our fees low, we have decided to make the shirts an add on for those who want one. Shirts are offered in gender specific sizing.
Q: What is the processing fee that shows up when I register?
A: That is a runsignup website fee. That is not a Wausau Marathon fee, and we do not receive any of that money.
Q: What are the rules and details for the Relay?
A: The Wausau Marathon Relay is back! Teams will be comprised of 2 - 4 members. Exchange locations will be designated on the course. All exchanges must take place inside designated exchange zones. Violators will be subject to disqualification. All teams will receive one race bib that will double as their "baton". We suggest the use of a race belt for ease of transfer between runners. There will be no divisions, just one overall category for 2026, the top 2 teams will receive awards.
Q: Where can I park on race day?
A: Marathon Park features several small lots. There is also plentiful street parking available in the surrounding neighborhood.
Q: Will there be aid stations?
A: Yes, the full marathon will feature at least 14 aid stations. The half marathon will have 5 aid stations. The 5k will have 1 aid station.
Q: Are there awards?
A: Yes, the male and female overall winners of the full and half marathon will have their names engraved on the Wausau Marathon trophy. The top 3 overall male and female finishers of the marathon and half marathon will receive a prize. The top 3 finishers in each age group will receive a pair of goodr brand sunglasses. The age categories are: 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+.
Q: What are the race time cutoffs?
A: The full marathon will begin at 6:30am and the course will close at 1:00pm. The half marathon will begin at 7:00am and the course will close at 10:30am. The 5k will begin at 7:15am and the course will close at 8:30am. You will still be allowed to finish if you are on the course after it closes but you will be asked to move off of any roadways and on to the sidewalk. Aid will not be provided after course closure.
Q: Why does the marathon start at 6:30am?
A: To avoid potentially (uncommon) warmer weather. Morning temperatures are typically in the mid 50s to low 60s and we want to help you take advantage of the cooler temps. Whether you're going for a BQ or trying to beat the time cutoff, the more time in cooler weather, the better.
Q: Can I edit my registration or change race distance?
A: Yes, you have until the final day of registration, August 15th, to make any changes. No modifications are allowed after August 15th.
Q: What is the refund policy?
A: We do not offer refunds. We do offer deferrals which are be granted on an individual basis.
Q: Does the Wausau Marathon support any charities?
A: Yes, the Wausau Marathon is a nonprofit event that supports local organizations. In 2025 all proceeds from the Wausau Marathon will benefit the Shannon Marie & Louis Porter Smith Foundation, the Wausau West Cross Country Team, Friends of the Gridiron(Newman), Northern Extreme Athletics and the DC Everest Booster Club.
Q: Are walkers welcome?
A: Yes. Please seed yourself near the back of the starting chute and be aware of course cutoffs.
Q: Is there a gear check?
A: No. We do not offer gear check.
Q: Can a family member or friend cross the finish line with me?
A: Unfortunately, only registered participants may enter the course or finish line chute. This is to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants and spectators. Any violators of this policy will be disqualified.
Q: How do I exchange my race shirt?
A: You can only exchange your shirt after the completion of the event, as long as supplies last.
Q: Is there medical support on the course?
A: Yes, each aid station will have a medical bag for basic and minor injuries. If you are in need of medical support on the course, please reach a volunteer and support will be sent and provided.
Q: Can I wear headphones?
A: Yes, but PLEASE be aware of your surroundings, including traffic, course signage, and other runners. Anyone unable to meet these standards will be removed from the course.
Q: When and where is packet pickup?
A: Packet Pickup is TBD for 2026.
Free Training Plans
Welcome to the Wausau Marathon training plans page brought to you by CoVantage Credit Union of Wausau! Whether you're a seasoned runner or lacing up your shoes for the first time, we're thrilled to accompany you on your journey to race day excellence.
The Half Marathon plans run 12 weeks, and the Full Marathon plans run 16 weeks.
Wausau Half Marathon Plans
Wausau Half Marathon Plan - Beginner
Wausau Half Marathon Plan - Intermediate
Wausau Half Marathon Plan - Sub 2 hour!
Wausau Marathon Plans
Wausau Marathon Plan - Beginner
Wausau Marathon Plan - Intermediate
Wausau Marathon Plan - Advanced
Wausau Marathon Plan - Sub 4 hour!
**These training plans are not a substitute for professional advice and carry inherent risks of injury. Users must assess their own fitness level and assume personal responsibility for their health & safety while following the plans.**
Marathon Co. Runners
Welcome to Marathon Co. Runners
This page is the central hub for updates, routes, and all things related to our new running group in Wausau.
Who are the Marathon Co. Runners?
We’re runners, joggers, and walkers from Wausau and the surrounding areas who believe every pace has a place. Whether you’re training for a race or taking your first steps into running, you’ll find encouragement and good company here.
When and where does the group meet?
We will start by meeting Saturday November 22nd at PK Fitness - 215 N 3rd St, Wausau. It is the 1st floor of the new foundry building. Look for signs.
Is there a designated route?
We’ll have a 3- and 5-mile route with a group leader, but you’re welcome to run, jog, or walk at your own pace. Choose the distance and pace that fits your day. This is about community and support, not competition. We will help organize everyone who is going out at similar paces. The routes will be posted here before we meet.
What happens after the run?
Join us back at Peter Kraus Fitness for complimentary coffee, water, and snacks. Click the link here PK Fitness Gym Access for access to the gym where you can enjoy the use of lockers, a shower, and a sauna. You are not obligated to click the link, it is only if you want access to the gym that morning. You do not need gym access to enjoy the post run refreshments.
Does it cost to join?
Nope. This is a free, social running group. Our goal is simple: to bring people together, build consistency, and create a space that’s kind, supportive, and open to all.
What if I have a question?
Email us - wausaumarathon@gmail.com
Participant Guide
Photos
Race Medals & Shirts
2025 Edition below --- 2026 is under construction
