Des Moines St. Paddys Marathon

Des Moines St. Paddys Marathon 2027 Course Analysis

Des Moines St. Paddys Marathon is a full marathon held in Des Moines, United States of America. It is scheduled for Sunday 16 May 2027. The course is run on trail surface with 135m of total climbing, with its high point near 252m above sea level. For registration and full race details, visit the official Des Moines St. Paddys Marathon website.

Elevation Profile

With 135m of total climbing, this is a gently undulating course. The elevation changes are manageable for most runners and shouldn't greatly affect your pacing.

Expected Race Day Weather

Based on historical weather data for May, the expected race day conditions are as follows. Hot conditions are expected, with temperatures between 18°C and 31°C. Heat is one of the biggest performance factors in distance running - for every degree above 15°C, finish times can slow by roughly 1-2%. Extra hydration and a conservative start are strongly recommended. There is a high chance of rain (50%). Runners should prepare for wet conditions, including appropriate footwear and clothing choices.

Surface Type: Trail

Des Moines St. Paddys Marathon is a trail race, meaning the course includes unpaved surfaces such as dirt, gravel, or forest paths. Trail surfaces are usually slower than the road equivalent - often by 10-20% - because of uneven footing, technical sections, and frequently steeper gradients, though a smooth, non-technical or downhill trail can run faster than that suggests. Trail-specific shoes with good grip are recommended.

Looking for an easier marathon or a tougher challenge? You can also compare Des Moines St. Paddys Marathon against other marathons to find the right race for your goals.