Half-Marathon on the Gunflint Trail

     I know what a great race the Ham Run Half-Marathon is and people who have participated in it know and now hopefully others will know too.  Minneapolis Running gave the Ham Run a mention on their Blog Post!  I’m hoping it will encourage some new folks to come run the Trail Less Traveled and remind some seasoned Ham Run participants that it’s time to sign up.

Ham Run Half Marathon – May 5

Up for an adventure? Five hours north of Minneapolis near scenic Grand Marais is the Ham Run half marathon and 5k. This race commemorates a 2007 fire that burned in this area along the Gunflint Trail. According to race organize Sue Prom,

We wanted a way to commemorate the event and get people up there to help plant trees and clean up the area.

The course, running through parts of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA), follows some of the same path the fire took. It’s a way for people to see the growth taking place year after year.

Race organizers have found creative ways to make this a green event. Awards, made of wood, rock and birch bark, are only give to top finishers. They compost, recycle and are cup free by using the hydra pouch. The post race party takes place at Way of the Wilderness Canoe Outfitters and the Trail’s End Café.

As you run through the BWCA, you’ll be captivated by lakes, gigantic pine trees and wildlife. Moose, bear, wolves and chipmunks manage the aide stations. Book your lodging soon as spaces are limited, although you could always bring a tent.