Snow Joke Half Marathon
Seeley Lake, MT
- Half Marathon
- Road (Paved), Trail (Unpaved)
- Official race website
The Snow Joke is a timed footrace run during mid-winter in a remote community with potential for cold and heavy snow. The average high temperature on race day in nearby Missoula is 41 degrees, but record lows have dipped well below zero. The race organizers intend to hold the event … MORE
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Better than I anticipated.
This year, we lucked out with the weather: 20 degrees and sunny. But I can see how this race would be rough if the weather was not good. The first … MORE
This year, we lucked out with the weather: 20 degrees and sunny. But I can see how this race would be rough if the weather was not good. The first part of the course is along the highway with some small rolling hills, then once you turn you move onto the snowpacked back roads. It’s difficult to find footing on this, and I had never run in Yak Tracks before and didn’t want to start during a race. But altogether it was manageable. A pretty quick course, beautiful snowy weather, not a bad race at all. Cute medal, and small refreshments in the warm gym after the race! Everything went smooth!
Half in winter!
This was my first half marathon, which I ran back in 2010. It was below zero at the start, and not much warmer at the finish! Fortunately, this year it … MORE
This was my first half marathon, which I ran back in 2010. It was below zero at the start, and not much warmer at the finish!
Fortunately, this year it was above freezing and lightly raining. The start begins in Seeley Lake and follows the highway for about the first mile before leaving town.
The first half of the course follows the highway, with gradual hills and descents. At the halfway point, the course leaves the highway and follows a round that takes you around Seeley Lake itself. Very scenic indeed.
Aid stations are very few and far between, which is one thing they need to improve on. It feels like you are pretty much on your own for most of the race.
Swag is pretty good, and this year they finally started awarding medals to all finishers!
This race is one you will remember, regardless of the weather. Make it if you can!
A whole lot of fun in the cold
The temps are always chilly, but the course was in superb condition this year and allowed for some solid performances. It's always beautiful at Seeley Lake, rain, snow or shine. MORE
The temps are always chilly, but the course was in superb condition this year and allowed for some solid performances. It’s always beautiful at Seeley Lake, rain, snow or shine.
Run around a Montana lake in February
If you are looking for a rollicking good time, this is your race! The weather can be sunny and bright or below zero and windy. It is a chance you … MORE
If you are looking for a rollicking good time, this is your race! The weather can be sunny and bright or below zero and windy. It is a chance you take when you sign up (and part of the allure!). Course is almost completely flat. You are on the 2-lane highway for a bit, then on gravel (under the snow) Boy Scout Road. You can even bring your dog! Come prepared for winter weather and enjoy beautiful Seeley Lake in winter.