Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about race day, registration, and the course – all in one place. If you don’t see your question below, reach out and we’ll get you an answer.
No. Bismarck Marathon maintains a zero-stroller policy across all race distances. The course does not have adequate width to accommodate strollers, and their use presents a safety risk to all participants. Strollers are not permitted on race day. Runners with a documented need for an exception may request approval from the Race Director in advance of race day.
The official course map is typically released in August. The course must go through certification first, which can take time, so the final map isn’t published until that process is complete. In the meantime, last year’s course map is available and gives a good sense of what to expect.
Registration for both the Kids Mini and the Bismarck Marathon opens August 1.
Yes. Registration transfers are handled directly through Race Roster, our registration platform. Log into your Race Roster account and use the transfer option to move your entry into another runner’s name.
Race Roster registration fees are non-refundable. If you purchased Refund Protection at checkout, that claim is filed directly with Race Roster’s partner, Teak – not with Bismarck Marathon. See Managing My Race Roster Registration Refund Protection for instructions and the request form.
Packet pickup times and location are posted on the Packet Pickup page on our website. Check there closer to race day for the current schedule.
No. Packets and bibs are only available in person at packet pickup – we don’t offer mail delivery. If you can’t make it to pickup, you’ll need to make arrangements with someone who can grab it for you.
Yes. The Bag Deposit, sponsored by Dakota Community Bank & Trust, gives runners a place to check a bag before the race and pick it up after crossing the finish line.
Yes. Aid stations are set up along the course to give runners water and support throughout the race.
Every registration includes a t-shirt, and finishers earn a Bismarck Marathon medal at the finish line. We also throw in a few extra surprise items at packet pickup.
Yes. Walkers are welcome in the 5K and 10K, as long as you complete the course within the allotted time and don’t impede runners who are racing to finish.
There is no minimum age to participate in the Bismarck Marathon.
The course closes at 2:00 PM CT. Plan your pace accordingly if you’re aiming to finish before it does.
No. Dogs and other pets are not permitted on the course. If you want to run with your dog, sign up for the BisBark 4K instead.
Yes. Sign in to Race Roster with the email you registered with, open The Bismarck Marathon event page, and click Transfer. Choose “Transfer to a new sub-event,” pick your new distance, and complete the form. Your old entry is replaced and a new confirmation email comes to you. You can only move into a distance that still has spots open.
Yes. The MDU Resources Full Marathon and the Essentia Health Half Marathon each award the top three male and top three female finishers, 12 awards in all. There are no age group awards.