Dam to DSM
Des Moines, United States of America · Monday 31 May 2027
Previously known as the Dam to Dam, the Dam to DSM Half Marathon is one of Iowa’s most popular races, drawing thousands of runners each year to experience its unique point-to-point course from Saylorville Dam to downtown Des Moines. The race is known for its fast, scenic route, beginning near the massive Saylorville Reservoir before taking runners through a mix of rural landscapes, forested trails, and urban streets, with the final miles winding into Des Moines’ bustling city center.
Difficulty Calculator
h
:m
:s
Adjusted Time
4:01:58
Time difference: +2.0 minutes compared to a flat, road, temperate course.
Course Details
Elevation Gain67m
Elevation High285m
Elevation Low241m
Weather Forecast
High28°C
Low12°C
Chance of Rain1%
How hard is Dam to DSM?
Moderateharder than 52% of marathons
Flattest / easiestHardest
On our difficulty model, Dam to DSM plays about 6 minutes slower than an average road marathon for a 3:30 runner. It ranks #550 hardest of 1150 marathons we analyse, and #285 of 575 in United States of America. Use the calculator above to see the exact adjusted time for your own goal pace.
What will you run at Dam to DSM?
Estimated finish times on this course versus the same effort on an average road marathon, based on its elevation, surface, and expected race-day temperature.
| Average-course time | On Dam to DSM | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 3:00:00 | 2:59:53 | −00:07 |
| 3:30:00 | 3:30:54 | +00:54 |
| 4:00:00 | 4:01:58 | +01:58 |
| 4:30:00 | 4:33:04 | +03:04 |
| 5:00:00 | 5:04:13 | +04:13 |
| 5:30:00 | 5:35:25 | +05:25 |
| 6:00:00 | 6:06:39 | +06:39 |
Use the calculator above for your exact goal time. Want a prediction from your own training? Try the marathon time predictor.
Dam to DSM 2027 Course Analysis
Dam to DSM is a full marathon held in Des Moines, United States of America. It is scheduled for Monday 31 May 2027. The course is run on road surface with 67m of total climbing, with its high point near 285m above sea level. For registration and full race details, visit the official Dam to DSM website.
Elevation Profile
This is a very flat course, with only 67m of total climbing and little change in altitude throughout. Flat profiles let you hold an even pace from start to finish, which makes this a fast, PB-friendly race.
Expected Race Day Weather
Based on historical weather data for May, the expected race day conditions are as follows. Moderate temperatures between 12°C and 28°C are expected. While comfortable for most runners, those targeting fast times should pay attention to hydration, as these temperatures can impact performance on race day. There is a low chance of rain (1%), so dry conditions are likely.
Surface Type: Road
Dam to DSM is run on road surfaces, which provide the fastest and most predictable conditions for racing. Road courses allow for consistent pacing and are typically the best choice for a personal best.
Looking for an easier marathon or a tougher challenge? You can also compare Dam to DSM against other marathons to find the right race for your goals.
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If Dam to DSM fits your goal, these courses play out about the same on our difficulty model.
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