Half Marathon

EMC DAM to DSM Half Marathon

DAM to DSM traces a point-to-point line from Saylorville Dam through Polk County fields and river neighborhoods to downtown Des Moines on a historic route.

Next raceSaturday, June 5, 2027
Distance categoryHalf Marathon
LocationPolk City, Iowa

Every link above goes to the race, its timing provider, or an official registration partner. Last checked July 23, 2026.

Quick facts

  • Central Iowa tradition dating to 1980.
  • Point-to-point route from Saylorville Dam.
  • Rural, river and downtown sections.
  • More than 140,000 past participants.

2027 EMC DAM to DSM Half Marathon registration

Registration for the 2027 EMC DAM to DSM Half Marathon runs through the official registration page at runsignup.com.

About the EMC DAM to DSM Half Marathon

More than 140,000 runners have taken part in this central Iowa tradition since 1980. The half's defining idea is visible at the start: downtown Des Moines sits on the horizon beyond Saylorville Dam.

Course

Runners cross Saylorville Dam, move south through rural Polk County, traverse Interstate 35 on the Morningstar bridge and continue through north-side neighborhoods toward downtown.

Race-day weather

Early June can bring humidity, rising temperatures and thunderstorms to central Iowa. The exposed dam and rural miles make wind direction important before the city provides more shelter.

Past EMC DAM to DSM Half Marathon dates and results

YearDateStatusResults
2027Saturday, June 5, 2027Upcoming

EMC DAM to DSM Half Marathon FAQ

When is the EMC DAM to DSM Half Marathon?

The 2027 EMC DAM to DSM Half Marathon is on Saturday, June 5, 2027.

How do I register for the EMC DAM to DSM Half Marathon?

Register for the EMC DAM to DSM Half Marathon through the official registration link: marathonscout.com/go/dam-to-dsm-half-marathon/register. It opens the race registration page at runsignup.com.

Race organizer or timing partner?

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