Hayden Lake Marathon

While Lake Coeur d’Alene receives the majority of the attention from outside the area, locals know that slightly to the north, Hayden Lake is equally as beautiful and serene. It’s a great summer spot for boating, skiing, and fishing or just cruising around to look at some of the more impressive homes in the area. With the water now a bit too chilly for a dip, why not take a look around this beautiful body of water on foot? The second annual Hayden Lake Marathon is October 18th and features one of the more beautiful courses in the area.

Put on by the Hayden Chamber of Commerce, the event drew 240 racers last year and organizers are hoping to double that for year two. The race was the idea of co-directors and avid runners Nancy Lowery and Jason Ball.

“They got together and actually first drew the race course on a napkin,” said Hayden Chamber President Erna Rhinehart. “Surprisingly the route around the lake was almost exactly 26.2 miles.”

The marathon itself is very challenging with plenty of hills to climb and descend as you make your way completely around the lake. The half marathon proved to be the most popular the first time around. The 13.1 mile course takes you on the western edge of the lake past Seven Bay, Cramps Bay, and back around on Lancaster Road. There is also a 10k option that takes runners along the southern portion of the lake and Coopers Bay. All distances start and finish at Honeysuckle Beach. Participants in the marathon must be at least 18 years old, half marathoners must be at least 14 years old and the 10K is open to anyone 10 years of age or older.

While the race promises to be both challenging and beautiful, runners will know that their entry fee is going to several great community organizations. “Proceeds from this year’s race will go to non-profits including the Hayden Senior Center, Hayden Chamber of Commerce, and Coeur d’Alene High School boys and girls cross country teams,” said Rhinehart. Runners from Coeur d’Alene High will be manning the fueling stations, providing food and water for runners. There are also restrooms and aid stations throughout the course helping runners stay safe and hydrated.

Registration forms and additional information can be found by visiting www.haydenlakemarathon.org. You can register up until race day, however you will save money by pre-registering. Each registration also includes a race shirt. Marathon begins at 7am, half marathon is at 8am and the 10k starts at 9am. Winners in each age category will take home trophies, and additional prizes will be given out to the fastest times. With cool fall weather and beautiful scenery all around you, make this the race to really challenge yourself and see what you’re made of.

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