FAQ

  • Why did the race switch to a two day event?

    We’ve seen exponential growth within the Muskoka Marathon participants over the last few years. In order to maintain a comfortable course with runner numbers, and a comfortable start/finish line, we’ve decided to make the Muskoka Marathon a full weekend event!

    10K & 5K - Saturday October 3rd

    Half & Full - Sunday October 4th

  • Marathon shuttle

    All full marathon participants must park at Stevens’ Your Independent Grocer, located at 270 Wellington Street, Bracebridge. There will be no on-site parking at Santa’s Village for full marathon participants. Complimentary shuttle service will operate between Stevens’ and Santa’s Village on Sunday. The first shuttle will depart at 6:15 a.m., with return transportation provided after the race. We'll share additional shuttle details closer to race weekend.

    Registration for the 2026 full marathon is capped at 350 runners.

  • What's the transfer policy?

    Transferring your registration to another person

    You may transfer your registration to another person through Race Roster for a $9.99 transfer fee, plus applicable tax.

    Race Roster transfers the registration information only. It does not refund the original purchaser or collect the registration price from the new participant.

    The original purchaser and the new participant must arrange payment directly between themselves.

    The Muskoka Marathon is not responsible for payments between participants, payment disputes or incomplete transfers.

  • Changing your race distance?

    You may change to another race distance only if space is available. You cannot transfer into a sold-out event.

    If the new distance costs more, you must pay the difference in registration fees, plus the $1.95 Race Roster fee.

    No refund or credit will be provided if you change to a less expensive distance.

  • What's the deferral policy?

    Registration fees are non-refundable. If you cannot participate in 2026, you may request a one-time deferral by September 13, 2026.

    A deferral provides 50% off the applicable 2027 registration fee. It is not a refund, credit or transfer of your 2026 registration fee. You must register for the 2027 event, pay the remaining balance and complete your registration before your chosen race distance sells out.

    Deferrals are valid for 2027 only. They cannot be transferred, carried forward or applied to a later event year.

    A deferral does not reserve a spot, and registration remains subject to availability.

    No deferral requests will be accepted after September 13, 2026, for any reason.

  • How will the race proceed safely?

    We are working on numerous logistical strategies that will allow us to host a great race while keeping everyone safe. As we approach race day, communication will increase on how we plan to manage vehicles, racers, spectators, etc.

  • What is the cancellation policy?

    There are no cancellations or refunds. Your registration will be converted to a virtual race if the event is cancelled due to a government or public health order, severe weather, or other unforeseen circumstances. Optional cancellation insurance is available for purchase through Race Roster at registration.

  • Will there be washrooms?

    There will be washrooms on-site at the start/finish line, at each hydration station, and at the turnaround for the Marathon races.

  • Race Time Cut-Offs

    To ensure a safe event and allow roads to reopen on schedule, each race has a firm time limit:

    Marathon: Must be completed within 5 hours.

    The Muskoka Marathon ends at 12:30 pm on Sunday, October 4, 2026.

    Half Marathon: Must be completed within 4 hours.

    10K: Must be completed within 2 hours.

    5K: Must be completed within 1 hour.

    Participants who are not on pace to finish within the allotted time may be asked to stop, and race staff will arrange transportation back to the finish area for safety and operational reasons.

  • Will there be hydration stations?

    There will be hydration stations every 2.5 km offering water and sports drinks.

  • Strollers and Pets

    For safety reasons, strollers and pets are not permitted on the race course or in the start corrals. While we love your little ones and furry friends, the course includes only a partial road closure and must remain as clear as possible for all participants, volunteers, and emergency services. Thanks for understanding and helping us keep the event safe and enjoyable for everyone!

  • Race Kit Pickup: When/Where?

  • Where is the starting line?

    We start and finish at Santa's Village, Bracebridge: 1624 Golden Beach Rd. With the partial road closure, access to Santa's Village must be via HWY 118 to Golden Beach Rd.

  • Is there parking on-site?

    Yes, at Santa’s Village, except for the Marathon, which will be shuttled.

  • Where can spectators view the race?

    The best spots to watch the 5k/10k races are at the start/finish line. For the longer races, the start/finish is a great spot to watch, or you can find a spot along the course route: Annie Williams Park, 50 Santa's Village Rd or James W Kerr Park, 130 Beaumont Drive are both parks along the race route with parking, washrooms, and other activities. Both parks can access one-way traffic throughout the race to accommodate in-and-out movement.

  • Are headphones permitted?

    Yes, but please be mindful of the racers around you if you wear them.

  • Is there a bag drop?

    Yes, for Marathoners only.

  • Race Routes

    Click HERE for race routes.

  • Where can we stay?

    Our accommodation partner is Whispering Pines Campground. You can check availability at other local hotels HERE.

  • What is the Athletics Canada/Athletics Ontario (AC/AO) Day License Fee?

    The AC/AO Day License Fee provides race-day insurance for each registered participant during the 2026 Muskoka Marathon weekend, an Athletics Ontario (AO) Sanctioned Event. This nominal fee also helps cover AO sanctioning and safety oversight, supporting the highest standards of participant protection. The fee is waived for current AC/AO members. In 2026, this Day License Fee is being introduced as a pilot program. By participating, the Muskoka Marathon reinforces its commitment to an outstanding, safe race experience and supports AO’s mission: For you. For all. For LIFE.