EMC DAM to DSM
Sat, May 30, 2026, 3:00 AM CDT
- Type
- Run
Finish signup on the organizer site (check fees and dates there).
Race feel
Conquer Iowa's "Greatest Running Tradition," a scenic half marathon from Saylorville Dam to a lively downtown Des Moines celebration.
- Fun
- Scenic
- Festive
Fun
Scenic
FestiveExperience Iowa's Greatest Running Tradition, the EMC DAM to DSM half marathon. Since 1980, runners have journeyed from the serene Saylorville Dam to the vibrant heart of downtown Des Moines. This iconic course offers a unique perspective, starting with the quiet calm of the dam, traversing through the rural beauty of Polk County, and continuing along the Des Moines River. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a first-timer, you'll conquer the distance and celebrate your accomplishment at a lively post-race party at Cowles Commons.
What to expect
- Run from the quiet Saylorville Dam through rural Polk County.
- Follow the Des Moines River into the city, passing the World Food Prize Building.
- Celebrate your finish with a huge party at Cowles Commons in downtown Des Moines.
Standout details
- Iowa's Greatest Running Tradition
- Saylorville Dam to downtown Des Moines
- Scenic rural beauty and river views
- Huge post-race party at Cowles Commons
Distances & registration
2 optionsUse the official signup link above for all distances.
Half Marathon
2 options · closes May 29, 2026, 1:30 PM CDT
27d 5h 12m leftGeneral entry
Closes May 29, 2026, 1:30 PM CDT · From $76.15
Virtual DAM Half Marathon
Closes May 29, 2026, 1:30 PM CDT · From $86.60
Summaries use public event text. Confirm schedule, fees, and rules on the official page before you sign up.
From the organizer
Iowa's Greatest Running Tradition.
Since 1980, more than 135,000 runners have made running from the quiet and calm of the Saylorville Dam to the heat and high-rises of downtown Des Moines one of the greatest running traditions in central Iowa. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a first-timer, or a diehard this iconic running event is for you.
SAYLORVILLE DAM There is something unparalleled about standing on top of the Saylorville Dam and looking out at the high-rise buildings on the horizon knowing that you will conquer the distance in between. After crossing the dam athletes will travel south through the fields and rural beauty of Polk County.
DOWNTOWN DES MOINES Runners traverse I-35 at the Morningstar bridge and continue into the Northside Neighborhoods, along the Des Moines River at Birdland Park and enter into Downtown Des Moines. Athletes will finish their half-marathon journey by crossing the Des Moines River and passing the World Food Prize Building. With the finish line behind you, there's a huge party awaiting you at Cowles Commons across from The Des Moines Civic Center.