Join Us October 10th, 2026!
Experience the charm of the Upper Wisconsin’s premier fall classic. The WhistleStop Marathon, Half-Marathon, 5K/10K offers runners a scenic journey through the beautiful landscapes of northern Wisconsin. Whether you’re aiming for a personal best, qualifying for the Boston Marathon or simply soaking in the autumn colors, our event promises an unforgettable experience.
A trail run along an old abandoned railroad bed with breathtaking views of the farmland, dairy farms and quiet rural landscapes... a race like no other.
Join hundreds of runners from across the United States for an unforgettable run, featuring a fast course, stunning scenery, and a welcoming atmosphere!
Whether you're tackling the full marathon, cruising through the half marathon, the 10k, or 5k, there's a race perfect for every runner at all levels.
A Scenic Point-to-Point Course
Join us on October 10, 2026, for the 28th Annual Tamarack Health WhistleStop Marathon,
Half-Marathon, 5K/10K in Ashland, Wisconsin. This beloved event offers runners a scenic journey through the beautiful landscapes of northern Wisconsin, making it a must-do race for both seasoned marathoners and first-time participants.
Welcome to the Tamarack Health WhistleStop Marathon and Half-Marathon on Chequamegon, pronounced (She-Wah-Me-Gon), Bay in Ashland, Wisconsin, where you will “Find yourself next to the water!”
"One of the most beautiful courses in the world."
Established in 1998, the WhistleStop Marathon & Half-Marathon has become a cherished tradition in Ashland, Wisconsin. Held every October, the race attracts participants from across the country, drawn by the course’s gentle terrain and the region’s vibrant fall foliage. The event is more than just a race; it’s a celebration of community, endurance, and the great outdoors.
The WhistleStop Full Marathon is a favorite for runners seeking a flat, fast, and visually stunning course. Starting two miles east of Iron River, participants travel along the historic Tri-County Corridor Trail toward the heart of Ashland. This point-to-point course is made up of crushed limestone and winds through the beautiful Chequamegon National Forest, past lakes, wetlands, and historic trestles. It’s an ideal course for Boston Marathon hopefuls, with its consistent gradual downhill grade and cool fall weather. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a first-timer ready to tackle 26.2, this race is built to inspire and support your goals.
The Half Marathon offers all the beauty and charm of the full marathon in a more approachable format. Starting at the midway point on the Tri-County Corridor, runners will enjoy 13.1 miles of soft trail surface, wooded backdrops, and fall color bursts. With fewer elevation changes and a course that allows runners to get into a rhythm, the Half is perfect for both seasoned racers looking for a personal best and newcomers stepping into longer distances for the first time.
The WhistleStop 10K & 5k gives runners a chance to experience the energy and excitement of race weekend on the tail end of the Marathon and half-marathon course. The route starts in the woods and loops through neighborhoods ending downtown. With crowd support, a festive finish line atmosphere, and a flat, beginner-friendly course, it’s a fantastic event for casual runners and competitive sprinters alike.
There’s something special about Ashland in the fall. Maybe it’s the crisp air off Lake Superior, or the way the trees light up in every shade of gold and red. Or maybe it’s just the feeling you get being up north, where things move a little slower and the people wave as you pass by. Either way, it’s the perfect place to spend a race weekend.
After you cross the finish line in downtown Ashland, you’re already right where you want to be. The lakewalk, local shops, and family-owned restaurants are just steps away. Grab a pasty, explore the historic murals, or find a quiet spot by the bay to unwind and take it all in.
If you feel like adventuring, there is plenty to see. You can hike through the Chequamegon-Nicolet Forest, explore the waterfalls, cast a line in an inland lake, or take a ferry over to the Apostle Islands. Whether you are here for the weekend or making a longer trip out of it, Ashland makes it easy to relax and explore.
This is the kind of place that sticks with you. It is peaceful, welcoming, and full of natural beauty. Run your race, enjoy the view, and make some good memories while you are here.
Running the WhistleStop Marathon is an experience all its own, with the colors of fall surrounding you and the quiet beauty of northern Wisconsin unfolding mile by mile. Whether you’re chasing a PR or just soaking up the scenery, the crushed limestone trail and tree-lined course offer a peaceful, steady rhythm all the way to Ashland.
The full marathon is USATF-certified and a great option if you’re chasing a Boston time.
From colorful trees to old rail bridges and quiet stretches of woods, it's a runner's dream.
A welcoming community of runners, volunteers, and fans.
A finish line, great friends, and a race to remember.
Whether you’re gearing up for your very first race or you’ve run dozens of marathons, the WhistleStop welcomes you. With a forgiving trail surface, an encouraging crowd, and a course lined with the colors of fall, this event is built for all experience levels. From competitive athletes chasing a Boston qualifier to casual runners taking in the scenery, everyone has a place at the starting line.
Contact our team today!
Got questions? We’ve got answers! Whether you’re wondering about race day logistics, course details, or how to sign up, our FAQ section has everything you need to know.
YES. The WhistleStop FULL Marathon is a qualifier for the Boston Marathon. Please keep your official race result receipt to verify your qualifying time with Boston Marathon race officials. We also e-mail our race results to the Boston Marathon officials for proof.
Race packet pick-up for the WhistleStop Marathon/Half Marathon/5K/10K will be held on October 11, 2024 in the heated tent in the parking lot of the Bay Area Civic Center, 320 4th Ave West, Ashland, 12noon to 9pm. There is also packet pick-up on Saturday morning, October 12 from 6-7am for the Half-Marathon/Full Marathon/5K/10K inside the heated festival tent as well.
If you cannot make it to packet pick-up you may have another person (family member or friend) pick up your race packet for you. The person picking up your race packet will need the following:
Entry fees are non-refundable. The only exception that will be made to our “no refund policy” is for those who are on active military duty and are deployed for service (a copy of deployment orders is required)
Yes we can transfer your registration to another race. Prior to September 29 all you need to do is e-mail the change info@visitashland.com. After September 29-October 6 there will be a $10 transfer fee. There will be no refunds issued if you switch from the Full or Half Marathon to the 5K or 10K.
After October 6, NO RACE CHANGES will be allowed.
Racers are encouraged to take the shuttle buses from the designated finish line area at the Bay Area Civic Center on Saturday morning prior to the race to the start lines. We DO NOT bus runners back to these start lines after the race. However if you have spectators willing to drive you to the start, please follow these guidelines:
NO automobiles, bicycles, baby joggers, roller skis, inline skates, pets or unofficial participants will be allowed on the race course. The race course is on a narrow abandoned railroad bed and is very conjested with participants. Please honor this and not make the course congested and more dangerous for other participants.
