Know the Race Course

Race course
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The race course (see detailed map on left and zoom in) includes areas of extreme difficulty, with steep inclines, slippery loose rock and shale and obstacles such as ledges in a running creek and a virtual cliff to descend near the end.
Typically there is only one aid station with water at the top of the mountain, but there is no guarantee this aid stations will be available on race day. If weather permits, water and aid materials may be delivered by helicopter.

All Racers Must:

  • Have previous mountain running experience.
  • Have sufficient fitness to achieve the cutoff times.
  • Be prepared to get down the mountain, even if injured. Assistance is not guaranteed.
  • Be familiar with all routes for getting on and off the mountain, including the Jeep Trail.
  • Carry their own water if needed during the race. Water and medical services will be provided at the finish line.

View Mount Marathon Race Course Videos

Courtesy of KTVA News Channel 11.

Adult Race Course

  • Racers leave the start line at 4th Avenue and Adams Street, run one block on 4th, take a left on Jefferson Street and follow the road to the base of the mountain.
  • Racers climb to the top of the course; while there are several main trails, they may choose any route they wish. However, they must cross the timing mat while passing around the summit rock at Race Point, and then descend the mountain to the finish line.
  • The finish line is one block south of the start line at 4th Avenue and Washington Street.
  • Approximate race distance is 3.1 miles, with an elevation gain of almost 3,000 feet.

Junior Race Course

  • Racers leave the start line at 4th Avenue and Adams Street, run one block on 4th, take a left on Jefferson Street and follow the road to the base of the mountain.
  • The junior race course follows the same route as the adult race, but only goes halfway up the mountain.
  • Junior racers must round the marker at the halfway point (also known as the Junior Race Point) and descend the mountain to the finish line, which is one block south of the start line at 4th and Washington Street.

Slope Steepness Averages 34 Degrees

MtMarathonDiagram
The actual steepness of Mount Marathon — from the base of the mountain to the lip of the mountain just before the summit rock  — averages 34 degrees.
Excluding the road approach, the vertical gain is about 2,675 feet in 0.9 miles.