2026 Event Details
When and Where is the 2026 Michigan Monster Dash?
What are the start times?
- Half Marathon: 9:00 am
- 10k: 9:15 am
- 5k: 9:30 am
- 1k Kids Dash: 11:00 am
Where and when is packet pickup?
2026 ONLY!
Early packet pickup is normall at the Dick’s Sporting Goods in Novi. However, that store is currentlty in the processs of moving, and the new locaiton will not be open in time. So for 2026 only, early Packet Pickup will be at Dick’s Sporting Good in Bloomfield Township:
2105 S Telegraph Rd, Bloomfield Township, MI 48302
From 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Friday, October 23rd.
Dicks will provide all runners a 20% coupon good that day for all merchandise in the store.
Morning-Of packet pickup will also be available. However to avoid being rushed and standing in long lines, we suggest you come to Dick’s on Friday!
Can I pick up packets for my friends?
Yes.
Will there be same-day registration?
Yes!
It will be SELF-REGISTRATION. You can go to www.michiganmonsterdash/signup or scan the QR code that will be on-site and use your own device to register. Once you are registered, simply walk to the check in tent and give your name and we will give you your bib and packet.
However, in addition to the slightly increased cost to register late, we can’t guarantee a shirt or medal on race-day for registrations done after October 13. A limited number of extra shirts have been ordered and they will be given out on a first-come-first-served basis. Once the extra shirts are gone, anyone not receiving one will have it mailed to them in early November.
If I arrive late, can I still run?
Yes, but… Because our finish and start line are the same, not long after the 5k starts at 9:30 am, we need to reverse the direction of the chip readers so that they record runners crossing the mats as finishing rather than starting. The latest any runner will be able to start is about 5 minutes after the 5k starts. That being said, we may be able to make individual exceptions. If you can’t make it at the start time, please still come! We will work with you.
Can I run if I didn’t register?
The course is not closed. It is open to the public. All runners will be sharing the course with the general public who happens to be on the trails. As such, anyone is free to line up in the starting gate and run in any of the events. But of course, only those with an official numbered bib will receive a medal.
Is there a Gear or Bag Check?
Yes. The bottom of your bib will have a gear check tear-away tag that you can attach to any bag or pack. And there will be a place to check it.
That being said, our gear check isn’t widely used because the parking lot is right next to the starting line, and the course is an out-and back. So most people just leave their extra gear in their car. However, if you want to check a bag, we can certainly accommodate that.
How long will I have to finish each event?
The finish line for all events will close at 1pm, which leaves PLENTY of time for all runners, joggers, and walkers!
If you feel you won’t be able to cross the finish line by 1pm, please let us know. You can still participate and you will receive your medal! However you may not receive an official finish time.
Will all finishers receive a shirt and medal?
Yes!
Our 2026 shirts are high-quality, short sleeve, unisex tech shirts.
What does it cost to enter the park?
If you do not already have an annual pass, the one-day rate to enter the park is $10.00 per vehicle.
Will the events be chipped timed?
The Half Marathon, 10k and 5k will be chipped timed.
While the Kids 1k is not chipped timed, all participants will still receive a numbered bib and a finishers medal.
What kind of surface is the course? Is it all paved?
99% of the course for all events is paved blacktop trail or road. The only exception is about 50 yards right after the start and just before the finish where the course is on solid grass. This is just to keep the start/finish line off the main trail, which is used on race-day by the general public as well.
Are dogs allowed on the course?
Yes… but… They must be on a short leash, and you MUST pick up after them! We also reserve the right to ask you to exit the course if your dog causes concerns or stress for participants, volunteers, or park visitors.
Are strollers allowed on the course?
Yes! We welcome runners and walkers who would like to push kids in a stroller. No extra registration is required for kids in strollers, unless you want a shirt and a medal for them too. All we ask is that if you think you will be slower than most runners that you line up at the back of the starting gate so faster runners won’t need to navigate around you.
What is the age range of kids who participate in the 1k?
The majority of children who run in the Kids 1k range in age from ages 2 to 10. However we have seem a few as old as 14. There is no age limit.
Can parents accompany their children on the 1k course without registering?
Absolutely.
All events are on the trail in Kensington Metropark, and the trails are open to the public. It’s not a closed course. So for the Kids 1k, as well as all of the other events, anyone is welcome to be on the course at anytime. You would only need to register if you would like a medal and a shirt.
Will there be yummy food at the finish line?
Oh Yes!
One of things our runners rave ab out is our finish line snacks! We pride ourselves in proding you with the best post-race snacks of any similar race in all of Michgan!
Where should we park?
Parking will be at the Maple Beach parking lot. The start and finish will be on the beach just south of the parking lot.
If I need to cancel, can I receive a refund?
We wish that were possible. As soon as you register, there are costs associated with your registration that we can’t get back, including (but not limited to) your shirt and medal. However, if this comes up, please reach out to us. While a refund isn’t possible, we’ll still work together to find other options.
We want you to be happy.
