Stretching across 26.2 miles of Wisconsin’s Capital City State Trail, this marathon invites runners and hikers alike into a journey of steady terrain, diverse landscapes, and subtle challenges. Starting in Middleton, just west of Madison, the trail charts a mostly flat course weaving alongside the glistening Yahara River and through forested patches that seem alive with movement. The trail doesn’t climb aggressively — only about 600 feet of elevation gain — but stays fiercely itself, demanding respect for the length and variable trail surfaces.

The path balances crushed limestone and compacted earth, giving a firm footing for seasoned trail runners and accessible ease for hikers carrying daypacks. As you move deeper into the trail, the sound of the river dares you to keep pace, while small creeks intersect with playful splashes under wooden bridges. There’s an openness too—a chance to catch sweeping views of the Wisconsin countryside, punctuated by stands of oak and maple that turn amber in fall.

Practical considerations highlight the experience. Hydration points are sparse along certain sections; packing your own water becomes essential. Early morning starts are wise to avoid the midday heat especially in summer months, and footwear with solid traction but light support suits the mainly hard-packed surfaces. Timing your run or hike in spring or fall presents cooler air and fewer bugs, while summer offers lush surroundings and winter’s frozen quiet turns the trail into a stark, meditative challenge.

Given the trail’s steady profile and long-distance format, pacing is key. This isn’t a route for sprinting but for measured progress, pushing steadily forward with the land’s rhythm. Engagement is mental as much as physical — the marathon demands your focus across the miles, switching between tracking your footing and taking in the natural companions along the way.

Whether racing, jogging, or hiking, this marathon stretches the conventional idea of a city trail into an adventure that is grounded, approachable, and richly rewarding. It stands as a reminder that sometimes adventure lives in persistence, the quiet partnership with the earth beneath your feet, and the steady movement through a landscape that refuses to be rushed.