Dam to DSM

Dam to DSM 2025 Course Analysis

Dam to DSM is a full marathon held in Des Moines, United States of America, scheduled for Saturday 31 May 2025. The course is run on road surface with 67m of total elevation gain, reaching a maximum altitude of 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 elevation gain across the full distance. The course ranges from 241m to 285m above sea level — a 44m elevation range that makes it one of the flatter races available. Runners targeting a personal best will appreciate the minimal climbing.

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 over the full distance. 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 marathon running. Road courses allow for consistent pacing and are typically the best choice for runners targeting a personal best time.

How Difficult Is Dam to DSM?

Our difficulty rating for Dam to DSM is calculated using a model that combines elevation gain, temperature impact, and surface type. Use the difficulty calculator above to enter your target finish time and see exactly how many minutes this course would add or subtract compared to a perfectly flat, cool, road-based marathon. Faster runners and slower runners are affected differently by the same course conditions, so the difficulty is personalised to your pace.

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.