😎11 Spring Marathons with Sunshine, Scenery & Fresh Miles

Wondering if there are any spring marathons out there to help you beat the winter blues?
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For runners in the Northern hemisphere, the winter days are short, dark, and cold. 

• Squeezing in our miles at this time of year can often feel uninspiring or downright dreary. 
• Winter is a tough time to be a runner, but there’s a bright spot to be found...

🌻Spring marathon season!
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Having a spring marathon to look forward to might just make that winter training feel like less of a drag, so we’ve hand-picked 11 of the best spring marathons for you!

• According to the USA Marathon List, there are more than 90 marathons held in the United States between March and mid-June!
• With so many races to choose from, you’re bound to find at least one that suits your taste; we’re here to simplify the search just a bit. 

In order for a marathon to make this list, it had:

• ✅Positive feedback from a WeeViews runner
• ✅A stellar race-day atmosphere, and...
• ✅Top-notch organization

From scenic courses to PR-friendly races, this list has something for every runner–whether you’re living and running on a coast, the mountains, or right in the heartland. 
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Let’s dive into the 11 best spring marathons!

Wine-country bliss in California

• Where: Napa Valley, Calif.
• When: March 2, 2025
• Boston Qualifier: Yes
• World Major Qualifier: Yes
• Vertical Gain & Loss: 564ft+/867ft- (Net downhill!)
• Cutoff Time: 6 hours
• Course Format: Point to Point
• Average Race Day Temperature: 51°F (10°C)

The Napa Valley Marathon offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, impressive organization, and a runner-friendly course.
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Whether you’re chasing a BQ or just looking to enjoy the journey, this race delivers a memorable experience from start to finish.
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Friend of WeeViews and Napa Valley Marathon ambassador, Omar Posadas describes the event as “pure magic.”

• Running through one of the most iconic wine regions in the world, participants can expect a backdrop of “misty vineyards and rolling hills…cool morning temperatures and blooming mustard flowers painting the valley yellow,” says Omar.  

What runner wouldn’t want to kick off their year with this kind of picturesque vibe?

📌The Course:

• The point-to-point course is primarily flat with a net downhill (250ft), offering a fast setup for those aiming for a Boston Qualifier (BQ).
• Paved roads wind through wine country, ensuring smooth footing and scenic surroundings.

⭐What Makes It Special:

• Scenic serenity & peaceful vibes: Running through misty vineyards, rolling hills, and fields of blooming mustard flowers delivers an unmatched visual experience. 
• Unlike big city marathons, the smaller, more intimate setting offers a peaceful and calming race experience. Omar describes Napa as, “the antidote to those huge, chaotic big-city marathons.”

🤙Atmosphere & Community:

• Supportive volunteers: Aid stations every 2-3 miles are staffed by enthusiastic volunteers who understand marathoners’ needs. 
• Select stations around miles 19 and 22.4 provide oranges and bananas, offering a much-needed energy boost late in the race.

⚙️Event Organization

• Streamlined Logistics: The expo at Napa Valley Marriott Hotel & Spa is stress-free, with easy bib pickup and opportunities to browse local vendors. 
• Race morning transportation is well-organized, with buses shuttling runners from downtown Napa to the start line in Calistoga efficiently.
• Thoughtful Amenities: Gear check ensures your belongings are safely transported to the finish line where you’ll receive the finisher medal. The finish area at Vintage High School offers amenities like heat sheets, water, and hot soup to aid recovery. 

👉Challenges & Advice

• Plan Ahead: The smaller expo means fewer crowds, but be sure to budget time to explore the area and soak in the wine country charm.
• Train for Speed: With its flat-to-downhill terrain, this course is a prime opportunity to set a PR or qualify for Boston—if you prepare properly. 

The Hollywood hustle in California

• Where: Los Angeles, Calif.
• When: March 16, 2025
• Boston Qualifier: Yes
• World Major Qualifier: No
• Vertical Gain & Loss: 943ft+/1169ft- (Rolling Hills)
• Cutoff Time: 6 hours and 30 minutes, so runners who wish to continue beyond the cutoff must move to pedestrian walkways
• Course Format: Point to Point
• Average Race Day Temperature: 61°F (16°C)

WeeViews Rising Star, marathoner, and LA resident, Jenna Busch has a special place in her heart for her city’s marathon:
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“Whether you've lived here all your life or you're visiting, you'll see a side of LA you never have. Running down Hollywood Blvd. with the street closed to cars is an experience like no other.”

📌The Course:

• Starts at Dodger Stadium and winds through iconic neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little Tokyo, Hollywood, and Beverly Hills before finishing in Culver City.

⭐What makes it special:

• Cultural Immersion: Performers such as dragon dancers, Japanese drummers, and acrobats bring the city’s diversity to life.
• Iconic Landmarks: You’ll run along famous streets like Sunset and Hollywood Blvd., with the occasional glimpse of Oscars preparations.
• Unique Atmosphere: From stationary bike supporters to a lawn chair cat giving high-fives, the community spirit shines through.

🤙Community & Crowd Support:

The crowd is vibrant and full of energy, offering creative signs, and even snacks.

• Jenna says: “Everyone is out! Some people play music for you, and others cheer. One tiny little peanut of a kid offered me ‘gatah wade,’ which I had to take because she was so cute! Everyone has snacks, from candy to oranges to pretzels, and you never feel alone or unmotivated.”

👉Challenges & Advice for Runners:

• Parking Logistics: Parking at the start and finish can be tricky. Reserved parking is worth the investment to save time and stress.
• Course Terrain: Watch for uneven pavement, but the hills are manageable for beginners.

Read More Reviews of the LA Marathon Here

 Boardwalk breeze in Virginia

• Where: Virginia Beach, Va.
• When: March 16, 2025
• Boston Qualifier: Yes
• World Major Qualifier: Yes
• Vertical Gain & Loss: 270ft+/272ft- (Very Flat)
• Cutoff Time: 7 hours 
• Course Format: Out & Back
• Average Race Day Temperature: 48°F (8°C)

The Shamrock Marathon offers a flat, fast course, festive St. Patrick’s Day energy, and a supportive atmosphere for runners of all levels.
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From the cheerful crowds to the post-race beach party, it’s an unforgettable experience.
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Running shoe expert and WeeViews Ambassador, Hollie Sick, is a huge fan of this event and has run it several times. 

• “Even the couple of times the weather hasn’t been perfect, I’ve always had a fun time. J&A Racing goes out of their way to make sure every runner—from first-timers to those chasing PRs—has an amazing experience.”

📌The Course:

• A flat, fast course featuring oceanfront stretches, a run through Fort Story with views of the Cape Henry lighthouses, and a scenic boardwalk finish.
• According to Hollie, “If you want to, you can literally run straight into the ocean post-race!"

⭐What Makes It Special:

• Perfect Running Weather: March in Virginia Beach is typically cool, with a mix of sunny days and the occasional rainstorm.
• Welcoming Vibe: Locals cheer enthusiastically, and many participants embrace the St. Patrick’s Day theme with costumes and festive energy.
• Legendary Afterparty: Irish stew, Yuengling beer, live music, and oceanfront festivities–all under a giant tent.

👉Challenges & Advice:

• Smart Pacing: The first half feels fast and sheltered; resist the urge to overdo it early on.
• Wind & Inclement Weather: Miles 17-20 through the military base can be mentally tough due to quieter stretches and potential headwinds. In the spirit of total transparency, Hollie remembers a year where she ran in a “torrential downpour,” so be prepared for whatever mother nature decides to throw at you on the day.
• Boardwalk Finish: Beautiful but deceiving—it can feel never-ending, especially if the wind is in your face. Look for King Neptune as a sign you’re almost there!

⚙️Logistics & Accessibility:

• Affordable & Convenient: Hotels near the boardwalk are reasonably priced, and nearby airports like Norfolk and Newport News offer a stress-free arrival. Staying at the oceanfront allows for a short, relaxing walk to the start line.
• Race-Day Parking: Arrive early to avoid traffic near the Convention Center.

Read More Reviews of the Shamrock Marathon Here

 From Hopkinton to History in Massachusetts

• Where: Boston, Mass.
• When: April 21, 2025
• Boston Qualifier: Yes
• World Major Qualifier: Yes
• Vertical Gain & Loss: 815ft+/1275ft- (Net downhill, but don’t be fooled–there are plenty of hills)
• Course Format: Point-to-point
• Average Race Day Temperature:  53°F (11°C)

Any spring marathon list would be remiss to omit the Boston Marathon. 

• Since its inception in 1897, the Boston Marathon has held a special place in the hearts and minds of runners for good reason. 
• When an entire city converges at a finish line to cheer for runners who have poured in sweat, tears, and even some blood to get there, nobody can deny their own sense of community and connection. 

The Boston Marathon is a rite of passage for runners worldwide. 

As the world’s oldest annual marathon, it’s steeped in history and prestige, drawing elite athletes and everyday runners alike to its iconic point-to-point course from Hopkinton to Boylston Street. 

• With its infamous Heartbreak Hill, raucous Wellesley College scream tunnel, and unparalleled crowd support from start to finish, Boston offers an electrifying experience like no other. 
• Qualifying for Boston, or running it as part of a charity team, is a badge of honor that cements your place in marathon lore.

While we won’t spend as much time diving into the race specifics on this list, you can find several other WeeViews articles that explore the magic of Boston in depth.

• Boston Marathon 2024: 26.2 Fun Facts about This Famous Race
• Run the Boston Marathon Even if it Takes 7 Years to Get There
• Boston Marathon: 4 Reasons It’s a Thrilling Experience for All

Midwestern bridges in Wisconsin

• Where: Eau Claire, Wisc.
• When: April 27, 2025
• Boston Qualifier: Yes
• World Major Qualifier: Yes
• Vertical Gain & Loss: 590ft+/588ft- (Rolling hills)
• Cutoff Time: 6 hours, but the finish line remains open for 7 hours.
• Course Format: Loop
• Average Race Day Temperature: 56°F (13°C)

The Eau Claire Marathon stands out for its superb organization, vibrant community support, and scenic, runner-friendly course.
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It’s a Midwest race where the small-town charm delivers big-race energy, creating an experience that’s as memorable as it is rewarding.
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Eau Claire Marathon ambassador and WeeViews Rising Star, Julie might be a little biased, but she has run plenty of other big city races, yet she hasn’t found another race with an atmosphere to rival Eau Claire: 

• “Everyone is so friendly. They have tons of volunteers nearby directing and answering questions. The crowd support is like no other.”

📌The Course: 

• Terrain & Elevation: The course starts at Phoenix Park and finishes downtown, offering a scenic tour of Eau Claire. Expect a mix of mild hills and a mostly downhill second half. Running over all the city’s bridges adds a unique touch.
• Highlight: The “Blugold Mile” at mile 25 takes runners through the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire campus, with the school’s marching band and cheering students providing an incredible energy boost when it’s needed most.

For Julie: “The Blugold Mile is an experience like no other—marching bands, college students, and pure energy when you need it most. It’s the perfect boost to carry you to the finish!”

⭐What Makes It Special:

• Community-Focused Event: The entire Eau Claire community comes together to support runners, creating a family-friendly and inclusive atmosphere.
• Weekend of Fun: With events for everyone, including kids’ races, a 5K, and a 10K on Saturday, and the half and full marathons on Sunday, it’s a perfect race-cation for families or groups.
• Attention to Detail: The race organizers excel in planning, from seamless packet pickup to abundant course support, making it a smooth and enjoyable experience.

⚙️Event Organization:

• Exemplary Logistics: Race organizers consistently improve based on feedback. Packet pickup is quick and efficient, and the start/finish areas are well-coordinated, with plenty of parking and easy access for both runners and spectators.
• Aid Stations: Stations are frequent and well-stocked with water, Gatorade, Honey Stinger products, and fruit, ensuring runners stay fueled throughout.
• Race Swag: Participants receive high-quality shirts that are a favorite among runners.

👉Challenges and Advice:

• Unpredictable Weather: Late April in Wisconsin can bring anything from rain to sleet to sunshine, with temperatures ranging from the 30s to 50s. Flexibility and preparation are key. Gear up for all potential conditions and check the forecast!
• Soak in the Blugold Mile: Save some energy to enjoy the electrifying support as you near the finish line.

Hilly-coastal magic in California

• Where: Caramel, Calif.
• When: April 27, 2025
• Boston Qualifier: Yes
• World Major Qualifier: Yes
• Vertical Gain & Loss: 1654ft+/1949ft- (Very hilly)
• Cutoff Time: 6 hours
• Course Format: Point to point
• Average Race Day Temperature: 54°F (12°C)

The Big Sur International Marathon is a bucket-list race for runners, offering breathtaking views of California’s iconic Highway 1.
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Friend of WeeViews, Chris Andrews, was inspired by his father, who completed the race when Chris was just a child. 

• Chris attributes Big Sur as the race that piqued his marathon curiosity and his love for running. 
• “My dad used to train with me while I’d be sleeping in the stroller and I still have memories of him coming home from runs glowing with what I would later come to know myself as the runner’s high,” Chris recalls.

📌The Course

• This point-to-point course starts at Big Sur State Park and finishes in Carmel, boasting nearly 2,000 feet of elevation gain. 
• Runners face rolling hills and sweeping coastal views, with landmarks like the famous Bixby Bridge, where a grand piano serenades participants as they run across.

⭐What Makes It Special: 

• The event is a major celebration for the Monterey and Big Sur region, with enthusiastic spectators, volunteers, live music, drummers, and even giant strawberries offered at aid stations.

⚙️Event Organization: 

• With the entire Highway 1 closed for the race, logistics are meticulously planned. 
• From efficient packet pickup to reliable shuttle transportation, the event runs seamlessly thanks to a dedicated organizational team.

🤙Community and Atmosphere: 

• Big Sur is more than just a race; it’s an experience that blends natural beauty, community spirit, and world-class organization. 
• Running along the rugged Pacific coastline with towering cliffs, rolling waves, and misty ocean views creates an unforgettable connection to the landscape. 
• Add the harmonious notes of a grand piano at Bixby Bridge, and it’s clear why this marathon is often called one of the most scenic in the world.

👉Challenges and Advice: 

• Runners should prepare for an early wake-up call (buses depart at 4 a.m.).
• Pack layers to stay warm at the start, and...
• Plan race-day logistics in advance. 

“The race organizers donate extra clothing left at the start to shelters and people in need,” Chris adds—a thoughtful touch in a well-orchestrated event.

Touring Track Town in Oregon

• Where: Eugene, Ore.
• When: April 27, 2025
• Boston Qualifier: Yes
• World Major Qualifier: Yes
• Vertical Gain & Loss: 496+ft/592ft-
• Cutoff Time: 7 hours
• Course Format: Loop
• Average Race Day Temperature: 53°F (11°C)

The Eugene Marathon is a race steeped in running history. Runners get to take a tour of “Track Town, USA,” following the footsteps of legends like:

• Steve Prefontaine
• Raevyn Rogers, and...
• Ashton Eaton

WeeViews Rising Star and Lululemon ambassador, Josie, raced the 2024 Eugene Marathon and remembers the thrill of taking a victory lap around Hayward Field:

• “There are so many running legends who have competed on that track so it's a really cool experience to cross the finish line there,” she reflects. 
• For Josie, the Eugene Marathon was a magical experience made even better by family ties to the area and the exceptional perks for elite athletes, including complimentary entries and bottle support.

📌The Course: 

• The mostly flat course features beautiful, green scenery throughout, but runners should be ready for a significant hill around mile 8.
• Despite this challenge, the fast terrain makes Eugene a great choice for those chasing a PR or enjoying the sights of Oregon in spring time.

⭐What Makes It Special: 

• Eugene is known as “TrackTown, USA,” and the marathon embodies this spirit. 
• With a flat, scenic course showcasing Oregon’s lush greenery and the opportunity to visit iconic landmarks like Pre’s Trail and Pre’s Rock, this race is a pilgrimage for running enthusiasts. 
• Finishing on Hayward Field adds an unforgettable touch for runners of all levels.

⚙️Event Organization: 

• Event organization is top-notch, with ample bathrooms, efficient logistics, and special perks for elite athletes, including complimentary entries, course previews, and bottle drop. 
• Josie was particularly impressed with how smoothly everything ran, making the day stress-free.

🤙Community and Atmosphere:

• Eugene’s welcoming running community and lively spectators add to the experience. 
• Josie recalls cheering with fellow runners she met on race day and laughing at the witty signs along the route.

👉Challenges and Advice:

• Smart Pacing: Start conservatively. It might be tempting to go out fast–particularly since marathoners and half marathoners start together–but pacing is key.Remember the hill at mile 8!
• Make it a run-cation: Soak in the lush scenery and rich running history by visiting landmarks like Pre’s Trail and Pre’s Rock.
• Flights: Josie emphasized that even though the flights are more expensive, it’s worth flying directly into Eugene’s small, convenient airport to save yourself the hassle of driving from Portland.

Read reviews of the Eugene Marathon here.

A porcine party in Ohio

• Where: Cincinnati, Ohio
• When: May 4, 2025
• Boston Qualifier: Yes 
• World Major Qualifier: Yes
• Vertical Gain & Loss: 946ft+/939ft- (Rolling hills)
• Cutoff Time: Road closed for 7 hours, but runners are permitted to move to pedestrian sidewalks if they exceed cutoff time
• Course Format: Loop
• Average Race Day Temperature: 58°F (14°C)

Flying Pig Marathon is a celebration of running, inclusivity, and pig-themed joy that keeps participants coming back year after year.
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Erika Hamel, host of On the Runs podcast and a WeeViews Rising Star, describes the Flying Pig Marathon as “a party on the run!” 

📌The Course: 

• Flying Pig gives you a little bit of everything: a trek through downtown Cincinnati with views of Paycor Stadium and The Great American Ball Park, eventually crossing over the Ohio River. 
• Erika has run more than 50 marathons and ultras, but she wouldn’t describe Flying Pig as an easy course. 
• There is approximately 946ft of gain that will make you work for the finishing medal. 

⭐What Makes It Special:

• Pig-Themed Fun: From the “Pig Pens” (start corrals) to the “Finish Swine” (finish line), this marathon celebrates its theme with playful enthusiasm. Participants and spectators alike embrace the pig motif with costumes, decorations, and creatively named aid stations.
• Award-Winning Reputation: Voted the best marathon in the U.S. by Race Raves, it’s a must-run for its charm, energy, and excellent execution.
• Community Spirit: The inclusivity and support for runners of all paces make it a standout event for everyone.

⚙️Event Organization:

• Expo: Spacious and efficient, featuring ample volunteers, great swag (including free samples from sponsor P&G), and plenty of pig-themed merchandise.
• Race Day Logistics: Well-planned with abundant portable toilets (clean and well-stocked), clearly marked corrals, and easy navigation to the start/finish areas.
• Aid Stations: Frequent and creatively themed, though early stations were hit hard due to warm weather and overlapping courses with the half marathon. Volunteers worked hard to keep supplies stocked, and later stations were well-supplied.

👉Challenges and Advice:

• Course Demands: The elevation changes make it a challenging course.
• Warm Weather: Early May temperatures can add an extra layer of difficulty.
• Sign Up Early: Don’t hesitate; this race sells out quickly.
• Maximize the Weekend: Take on one of the Flying Pig’s challenges, like the Skyline Chili 4-Way Challenge with Extra Cheese (multiple races over the weekend), for extra medals and a full weekend of fun.

Read more reviews of the Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon here.

Canyon cruising in Colorado

• Where: Fort Collins, Colo.
• When: May 4, 2025
• Boston Qualifier: Yes
• World Major Qualifier: No
• Vertical Gain & Loss: 243ft+/1366ft- (Downhill)
• Cutoff Time: 6 hours
• Course Format: Point to Point
• Average Race Day Temperature: 53°F (11°C)

The Colorado Marathon combines scenic views, outstanding organization, and a runner-friendly point-to-point course that’s perfect for achieving personal goals or simply enjoying the journey.
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From its vibrant atmosphere to its thoughtful amenities, it’s a race that delivers a memorable experience from start to finish.
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Friend of WeeViews, Sarah, ran her very first marathon at this event.

•  Having gone to college at Colorado State University, she was familiar with Fort Collins and wanted to challenge herself with a brand new racing distance. 
• “It was such a beautiful race. I also loved the hype and the music at each aid station. So awesome,” Sarah says.

📌The Course:

• Terrain & Elevation: Runners descend from Steven’s Gulch along the Cache La Poudre River for 16 miles before the course flattens out in Laporte. 
• While the 1,200ft of downhill running is advantageous for speed, training for the impact of extended downhill running is key to success.

⭐What Makes It Special:

• Perfect for fast times: although it is a higher altitude race (6,111ft above sea level), its downhill, point-to-point course is a recipe for PRs and BQs.
• Scenic Beauty: Running through a canyon alongside the Poudre River offers inspiring views throughout the race.
• Prime Timing: The early May date delivers pleasant weather in Fort Collins–think mid 40s for the low and 71 degrees F for the high.

⚙️Event Organization:

• Impeccable Logistics: Seamless packet pickup at the runners’ expo, multiple coach buses for race morning drop-off, and ample port-a-potties at the startline.
• On-Course Support: Aid stations are well-stocked with gels and waffles, Gatorade, water, and quick-refill water jugs. The race photographers capture high-quality shots at multiple points, and all photos are available for free—a standout feature!
• Post-Race Amenities: A well-organized finish line offers food, beverages, and recovery options to ensure runners feel celebrated and cared for.

👉Challenges and Advice:

• Downhill Demands: While the downhill course aids speed, the sustained impact can take a toll. Incorporating downhill running into training is essential for building the necessary strength and resilience.

Read more reviews of the Colorado Marathon here.

Steel-city stride in Pennsylvania

• Where: Pittsburgh, Penn.
• When: May 4, 2025
• Boston Qualifier: Yes
• World Major Qualifier: No
• Vertical Gain & Loss: 933ft+/939ft- (Rolling hills)
• Cutoff Time: 7 hours
• Course Format: Loop
• Average Race Day Temperature: 55°F (12°C)

The Pittsburgh Marathon isn’t just a race; it’s a love letter to the city’s character, community, and charm.
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For Brynn, this race marked a triumphant return to long-distance running after becoming a mom. 
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It also doubled as her honeymoon with her husband, who ran the half marathon. 

• "The Pittsburgh Marathon was exactly the confidence boost I needed to return to trail ultras,” Brynn says.
• "Two months after the marathon, we got pregnant with our second child." 
• "Right after baby number two was born, I still carried that confidence from Pittsburgh 2016 and returned to trail ultras in 2018. I've been running them since."

From its iconic bridges to its lively neighborhoods, Pittsburgh offers a race-day experience steeped in history, energy, and pride.
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📌The Course: 

• The course features 933 feet of elevation gain and descent, which some might call “hilly” for a road marathon. 
• However, Brynn notes that the climbing is manageable, breaking down to about 35 feet per mile. 
• The route is an immersive journey through Pittsburgh, passing iconic landmarks, parks, and neighborhoods like Shadyside, Highland Park, and the Strip District.

⭐What Makes it Special: 

• Pittsburgh is known as the “City of Bridges,” and runners cross several of them during the marathon, including the 16th Street, West End, and Birmingham Bridges. 
• The course also spans all three rivers: the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio. 
• Add in seven lush parks, tree-lined streets, and diverse neighborhoods, and you get a course that feels like a tour of everything that makes Pittsburgh unique. 
• Fun fact: Pittsburgh has one of the largest urban forests in the country!

Brynn loved the community spirit she felt along the course, from the generous spectators in Homewood handing out orange slices to the rowdy, party-like atmosphere on Carson Street. And finishing on Liberty Avenue amid cheering fans is an experience she’ll never forget.

📌Event Organization:

• The event runs smoothly, with plenty of aid stations and seamless logistics at the start and finish.
• While Brynn doesn’t recall much about packet pickup, she notes that everything else met her expectations for a big-city marathon.

🤙Community Atmosphere: 

• The race-day energy is contagious, with spectators cheering every runner by name, thanks to printed bibs. 
• Brynn fondly remembers the cheers, the music, and even an unexpected mid-race hug from her best friend. 
• While the crowd support dips slightly in the later miles, it picks up again near the finish line, leaving runners feeling like local celebrities.

👉Challenges and Advice:
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Brynn’s big takeaways that she wants to share with other runners:

• Run your own race. Ignore unsolicited advice and stay true to your goals.
• If the elevation concerns you, train on hills to prepare for the climbs.
• Book a downtown hotel for convenience.
• Plan time to explore Pittsburgh’s hearty food scene and iconic sights, like the city’s many bridges and vibrant neighborhoods.

Read more reviews of the Pittsburgh Marathon here.

A lakeshore classic in Minnesota

• Where: Duluth, Minn.
• When: June 21, 2025
• Boston Qualifier: Yes
• World Major Qualifier: Yes
• Vertical Gain & Loss: 471ft+/581ft- (Mostly flat)
• Cutoff Time: 7 hours
• Course Format: Point to Point
• Average Race Day Temperature:  61°F (16°C)

Grandma’s Marathon combines a PR-friendly course with a welcoming, festive atmosphere that feels bigger than its small-town setting. It’s a race that celebrates both speed and community spirit.
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WeeViews Rising Star, Kiley took 15 minutes off of her marathon PR at Grandma’s back in 2023, so if you’re eyeing this race, read on for her big takeaways and helpful advice! 

📌The Course: 

• A point-to-point, majority downhill course along Lake Superior, designed for speed and personal records (PRs). 
• The race begins 26.2 miles from Duluth, with runners bused to the start. 
• The route runs along Lake Superior, offering views and a literal tailwind. 
• While most of the course is downhill, the final flat miles through town include sharp turns that can be mentally tough. 
• Crowd support is phenomenal throughout, especially in town, where the energy carries you to the finish.

⭐What Makes It Special:

• Small Town, Big Race Feel: Grandma’s Marathon has the organization and energy of a major marathon, but in a welcoming small-town atmosphere.
• PR Potential: The fast, downhill course, coupled with cooling winds from Lake Superior, makes it ideal for runners chasing personal bests.
• Vibrant Community Support: The entire town rallies around the event, making race day feel festive and memorable.

⚙️Event Organization:

• Expo: Easy to navigate despite its size.
• Aid Stations: Well-staffed and fully stocked.
• Logistics: The finish line is well-organized and allows for a smooth exit. However, the start line can feel crowded, and bus drop-offs require planning ahead due to road closures and heavy traffic.

👉Challenges and Advice:

• Travel Logistics: Duluth’s small-town setting presents some hurdles that require runners to plan ahead. 
• Hotels book up a year in advance and flights into Duluth are expensive. 
• Driving from Minneapolis involves navigating traffic-prone highways. 
• There is also limited road access on race weekends, making bus transportation the only viable option to the start, so get ready for an early morning!
• Course Specifics: The extended downhill terrain can be tough on legs if you’re not properly trained. Be sure to incorporate strength training and downhill running to prepare for Grandma’s unique demands.

Read More Reviews of Grandma’s Marathon Here

Whether you’re drawn to the buzz of a big-city marathon or the tranquil charm of events like Napa Valley or the Colorado Marathon, spring is calling. 
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Let’s start counting down the final days of winter, lace up those running shoes, and make every mile count!