Top 10 Tips for First-Time Runners of Grandma’s Marathon

Running Grandma’s Marathon for the first time? You’re in for an incredible experience! This race, held annually in beautiful Duluth, Minnesota, is one of the most scenic and celebrated marathons in the United States.

The point-to-point course follows the shoreline of Lake Superior, making for breathtaking views. In contrast, the enthusiastic local support and well-organized logistics make it an ideal race for first-time and experienced marathoners.

That said, Grandma’s Marathon has its unique challenges. From unpredictable weather to the sneaky rolling terrain, a little local knowledge can make your race day more enjoyable. To help you maximize your experience and finish strong, here are 10 Grandma’s Marathon insider tips.

1. Train for the Rolling Course – Especially Lemon Drop Hill

While some marathons boast about being “fast and flat,” Grandma’s Marathon isn’t entirely that. The first half of the course trends downhill, but you’ll still encounter gentle rolling hills along Scenic Highway 61. These hills are manageable if you prepare for them.

The most famous hill? Lemon Drop Hill at Mile 22. Though it’s not a monster climb, it comes at a challenging point in the race when your legs are already burning.

Training Tip:

Incorporate rolling hills into your long runs.

Add late-run hill repeats to mimic race fatigue.

Focus on downhill running form to avoid “feeling it” your quads early.

2. The Weather is a Wild Card – Be Ready for Anything

Duluth’s weather in June is notorious for being unpredictable. You might experience perfect 50-degree running weather or face heat, humidity, cold winds off the lake, or even rain.

Preparation Tip:

Pack for all weather conditions: layers, rain gear, sunglasses, and gloves.

Dress in throwaway clothes to stay warm at the start. Two Harbors can be chilly!

I’ve seen ladies who were especially unhappy about the cold show up to the start with bathrobes on.

Discarding old clothes is easy, and the race organizers donate all clothes to charity.

If it’s hot, adjust your pace and hydrate early to avoid hitting the wall.

3. Get to the Shuttle Early—Don’t Miss Your Ride

Because Grandma’s Marathon is a point-to-point course, you must take a shuttle from Duluth to the starting line in Two Harbors. The buses start loading at 4:45 AM. The earlier you can hop on, the better!

In addition, consider taking the train ride to the start line. Many first-time runners are so focused on the race that they assume the train option is full – But there has generally been plenty of available space.

4. Porta-Potty Strategy—Plan Your Bathroom Breaks

With thousands of runners, the porta-potty lines at the start will be long. If you wait too long, you risk still being in line when the gun goes off!

Two close friends flew to Duluth to run with me, but they ended up stuck in the bathroom line when the race started. Running a marathon is stressful enough without worrying about dodging slower runners after a late start.

Bathroom Tip:

There are plenty of options for bathrooms during the race. You won’t feel rushed if you can skip the bathroom at the start line.

5. Don’t Get Too Carried Away with the Early Downhill Pace

The first half of the race is slightly downhill, and combined with adrenaline, this makes it very easy to start too fast. But remember, you’ll need energy for the rolling terrain later.

Pacing Tip:

Stick to your goal pace and resist the urge to push early. If the wind is at your back early on, don’t let it trick you into over-pacing, as you might face a headwind later.

Grandma’s Marathon’s pacers are incredible athletes, so if you run better in groups, a pacer can help you stop being hyper-focused on your watch.

6. Enjoy the scenery!

Running along Lake Superior is one of the highlights of Grandma’s Marathon. It’s truly magical.

I know your nerves are high, and you’re feeling pain. But take a second to soak it in and smile. It’s a world-class view.

7. Add Bob Dylan to Your Running Playlist

Music icon Bob Dylan, born in Duluth, is a must-listen for any Grandma’s Marathon runner. Whether warming up, running easy miles, or grinding through Lemon Drop Hill, his music keeps you moving.

Playlist Tip:

For steady pacing, try “Tangled Up in Blue” or “Like a Rolling Stone.”

When you need a boost, “The Times They Are A-Changin’” will remind you that every mile gets you closer to the finish.

Let “Blowin’ in the Wind” distract you from the pain if you hit the wall.

8. Use the Party Atmosphere in Duluth to Power Your Final Miles

After 22 miles of mainly quiet roads, you’ll enter downtown Duluth, where the crowd support explodes.

Expect big crowds and loud cheers around Mile 24, especially at Fitger’s. This is where the city gets behind you!

If you’re struggling, feed off the energy and let the spectators carry you home.

9. The Finish Line is Tricky – Don’t Sprint Too Early!

When you turn onto Canal Park Drive in the final stretch, you can see the finish line – but it’s farther than it looks. Stay on your plan, and don’t sprint until that finish line is directly ahead of you… Then let it rip!

Also, a valuable piece of advice I received from Doug Kurtis – two-time Grandma’s Marathon winner, was not to stop my watch at the finish line. For runners, hitting that stop button is a reflex, but there’s no need for that. Instead, smile for the cameras and know you just finished one of America’s most famous marathons!

10. Celebrate Like a Local – Post-Race Traditions in Duluth

After you cross the finish line, the fun isn’t over! Duluth goes all out with a legendary post-race party in Canal Park.

Grab your free Grandma’s Marathon finisher beer and get a race t-shirt.

Head to the Big Top Tent for live music, drinks, and a well-earned celebration!

Final Thoughts

Running Grandma’s Marathon is more than just a race – it’s an experience. From the small-town charm of Two Harbors to the electric atmosphere of the crowds in downtown Duluth, you’ll remember this race long after you cross the finish line.

See you at the start line!