Refunds and transfers: All entries are non-refundable and non-transferable. Withdrawals receive race credit per the Aravaipa Running Refund & Transfer Policy.

Distance changes: You can change your race distances by emailing the race director, Zach Mayfield, at [email protected]

Every finisher receives:

• Long-sleeve technical race shirt
• Custom finisher medal handmade by local artisan Grace Hogan Jewelry
• Post-race cookout meal and one free beer (21+) at the finish line celebration

2027 details to be announced. In past years, St. John's Church in La Pointe has hosted a Friday night pasta dinner for runners and families as a fundraiser for the church and the Flicker House: spaghetti (meat or vegetarian), salad, bread and a cookie, dine in or carry out.

2027 charity partner: Madeline Island Trails.

Each year the race supports a regional organization promoting health and wellness. In 2026 runners supported the Ashwabay Alliance, which runs year-round outdoor programs for all ages, with an optional donation during registration presented at the awards ceremony.

Getting to Madeline Island
Madeline Island is accessible by ferry from Bayfield, WI.  The 25-minute ferry ride provides passenger, bike, and vehicle transportation to the island.  For more information, including ferry rates and schedules, please visit www.madferry.com You must arrive early to find parking (if needed) and purchase tickets. Regular rates apply. Ferry service is always *weather permitting*.
*See Parking and Ferry under Course Information above for race day ferry details.

Air Travel – The Duluth International Airport is approximately 95 miles from La Pointe, WI.  Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport is approximately 245 miles from La Pointe, WI.
Travel by Car – from the Twin Cities, it is approximately 5 hours to La Pointe via I-35 and state Hwy 13S/WI 13 Trunk S or 5 1/2 hours via I-35 and WI-77 E

Lodging
All participants are encouraged to stay on Madeline Island on Friday, May 21st to ensure arriving at the start line on time.  The Island offers various lodging options including cabins, hotels, and camping. Click here for more information on cabins and hotels.  For camping information, click here.  You can also consider camping at our parks, either Big Bay Town Park or Big Bay State Park.   Lodging is available in Bayfield also*. Click HERE for Bayfield lodging. *See Parking and Ferry under Course Information above for race day ferry details.

Restaurants/Markets
There are several restaurants and two markets on Madeline Island CLICK HERE.
There are several restaurants and markets in Bayfield, CLICK HERE. For Shopping hours in Bayfield click HERE Please bring anything, in particular, you may need as supplies/hours may be limited on island and in Bayfield.

Can I transfer my entry or switch distances?

All entries are non-refundable and non-transferable. Withdrawals receive race credit per the Aravaipa Running Refund & Transfer Policy. To switch distances, email the race director, Zach Mayfield, at [email protected]. Running under someone else's bib is not allowed and results in disqualification.

Is there an early ferry on race morning?

2027 ferry schedule is pending. In 2026 a special race-day ferry left Bayfield at 6:30am, with the regular schedule starting at 7am. The ferry takes about 25 minutes, does not take reservations (first come, first served), and always runs weather permitting. Check madferry.com for the schedule and rates. Please leave the 6:30am boat for runners.

Where do I park?

There is no parking at the start/finish; Joni's Beach is three blocks from the ferry landing. Public lots are available in Bayfield and a few blocks from the start on the island. See the Bayfield parking and restroom map. Walking and biking are recommended on race day; cars and bikes can go on the ferry for an additional fee.

What is the weather like?

Average May lows are in the mid 40s and highs in the low 60s. Dress in layers for the ferry and the start.

Can I run with headphones?

The course is open to traffic, so we strongly discourage anything that keeps you from hearing vehicles and volunteers. Cell service is spotty on the north end of the island.

Are strollers and push-rim wheelchairs allowed?

Both courses are partially open to traffic with gravel sections, and the marathon has a 9-mile one-lane out-and-back. If you would like to participate with a stroller or push-rim wheelchair, email [email protected] so we can discuss how to accommodate you.

Is there a time limit?

Yes, 7 hours for both races (3:30pm overall cutoff).

How many runners are in each race?

The marathon is capped at 125 runners and the half marathon at 325. When a race sells out, a waitlist opens on the registration page, and spots are offered in order as they become available.

Where can I read reviews of the race?

See runner reviews on MarathonGuide.com.