Grandma’s Marathon Fueling Plan & Pace Chart

Grandma’s Fueling Strategy

Grandma’s Marathon is a fast, net-downhill course that rewards early and consistent fueling. The straight-line route along Highway 61 means wind direction is a major factor, and the limited shade makes heat a real risk in June. The defining challenge is Lemon Drop Hill at mile 22, which arrives exactly when glycogen stores are under the most pressure.

The first aid station isn’t until mile 3. That’s nearly 25 minutes with no water or Powerade. If the forecast calls for warmth, pre-load fluids before the start. Take your first gel at mile 3 when you hit that first station. The early miles feature a gentle net descent from Two Harbors, with a short climb at mile 5.4 (2.69% grade, 30 feet of gain). By the time you crest it, you should have one gel down.

Miles 7-13 are the prettiest and most important stretch for fueling. You’re running along Lake Superior with aid stations every two miles (7, 9, 11, 13). The terrain is level with minor rollers. Lock in your gel timing here—the conditions are ideal for absorption. By mile 13 at McQuade Harbor, you should have consumed 3-5 gels and be sitting on 150-200g of absorbed carbs. Watch for crosswinds near the harbor.

Miles 13-19 are the quiet stretch—Congdon Boulevard with minimal crowds and virtually no elevation change. Maintain your fueling protocol even though the loneliness tempts you to zone out. Mile 17 is the only on-course gel station (Pure Fuel). The critical fueling moment is miles 18-19: take a gel during the gentle descent before the terrain changes. Those carbs will be absorbing during Lemon Drop Hill.

London Road (miles 19-22) brings yard parties, music, and huge crowd energy. Don’t let it wreck your plan. Aid stations at miles 20, 21, and 22 stack up quickly. Grab water at each one. Lemon Drop Hill at mile 22 is roughly half a mile with two pitches (4.66% and 3.02% grade, ~48 feet total gain). Keep effort steady—do not attack. Save your last gel for the other side.

The final 4 miles through downtown Duluth to Canal Park are mostly flat with a 28-foot drop. Take your last gel at mile 23. Watch for the steepest descent of the course at mile 25.2 (4.21% grade)—keep stride quick and light. The Canal Park finish is one of the best in American marathoning.

Weather is the wild card. The 2025 race hit 80°F with a red flag and hospitalized 8 runners. In cool years (2023: 63°F), the BQ rate was 18.9%. Lake Superior’s 45°F surface moderates temps along the course, but shade is scarce on Highway 61. On warm days, shift carbs to liquid form, increase fluid at every station, and respect race flags.