Make staying fit a family affair by signing everyone up for one of these Northern Michigan Fall run/walk events for kids and adults. Smaller children can walk with their parents—or catch a ride in a stroller; older ones can give running a try. Remember, it’s not about winning—it’s about participation.

Here’s a list of run/walk events through New Year’s Day, from Traverse City to Mackinac Island. Get those running shoes on—and have fun!

October 4

Beaver Island Boodle 5k Run and Walk.

Talk about a family adventure! Board a ferry or a plane and head to Beaver Island (the most remote inhabited island in Lake Michigan) for this fun running event!  Click the link above for all the information you need on the run and getting to Beaver Island.

Boyne City Great Pumpkin Run/Walk

This way-fun event in Boyne City benefits the Charlevoix Area Humane Society so bring along Fido. Awards go to the youngest participant and the best human/canine pair. Click on the link for all the info!

October 11

Hands Are Not For Hurting 5/k Run and Walk at the Village at Grand Traverse Commons in Traverse City.

Participate to benefit all the good work that the Women’s Resource Center is doing, then have fun exploring the grounds of the Village at Grand Traverse Commons in Traverse City–don’t miss the Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Bark. Click on the link for all the info!

Mackinaw City, Fall Colors Bridge Race

Yep, you get to run from Mackinaw City across the Big Mac for this one! How fun is that? Click on the link above for more information.

October 25

Mackinac Island Great Turtle ½ Marathon & Race

Here’s a great excuse to head to Mackinac Island! While you are there, explore Fort Mackinac and shop for end of the season deals.

November 8

Blissterfoot 5K AND Kids Races!

This beautiful 5K meanders through the Blissfest Farm property—site of a much loved music festival.  Click the link or call 231.347.7047 for information.

Thanksgiving Day, November 27—Turkey Trots! 

 UpNorth Media Downtown Traverse City Turkey Trot For Up North Charities

This Traverse City tradition begins at Thirlby Field. Toddlers in strollers welcome and dogs on leashes—but if you are running with Fido you’ll want to read the information carefully to know where to start. Youth medals are provided for 5K finishers. Click the link for info.

Petoskey Turkey Trot Run & Walk

Petoskey’s first Turkey Trot ever starts downtown in beautiful Pennsylvania Park. Bring the kids—strollers are welcome too. Click on the link for more info.

December 13 

Bay Harbor Santa Fun Run 

Do a little Christmas shopping in the charming shops that line the Village of Bay Harbor, then take a fun jog through snowy, light-lined streets. Click on the link for more info.

More Northern Michigan Events

Run to Prevent Domestic Violence

Healthy Exercise Habits for Kids with Dr. David Olson

Fall Fun at Jacob’s Corn Maze