My top 10 list has changed a bit since 2012, so I figured I would re-post. It is worth noting that my top 3 favorite marathons have remained the same. Since 2012 I ran 4 marathons worthy of making the list, which means I had to remove 4, which wasn't easy. Maybe next time I will post my top 20, ha! Please note that my list only includes marathons I've ran.
Here is the list, in order of preference:
1. Big Sur International Marathon:
The bucket list marathon. No other marathon scenery compares to the views along the pacific coast as you run from Big Sur to Carmel. I would not recommend this as a first time marathon though, because it is very hilly. Everyone is forewarned about the climb to Hurricane Point, but what is not clearly evident is that there is a significant hill in every single mile from mile 16 to the finish. If you take this one on be sure to do some serious hill training.
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| Bixby Bridge |
2. The San Francisco Marathon:
The course starts and finishes on the Embarcadero, runs through Fisherman's Wharf, across the Golden Gate Bridge and back, through Golden Gate park, etc. It hits just about everything the city has to offer. This is another hilly one though, so come prepared.
3. The Colorado Marathon:
Even though this marathon is at elevation (approximately 6,000 ft), it runs downhill, dropping to approximately 5,300 ft. The first 16 miles run along the Poudre river, offering stunning scenery. The last 10 miles aren't as scenic, but the number of spectators pick up as you head towards downtown Fort Collins, finishing in the Old Town Plaza.
4. Newport, Rhode Island:
The views are stunning from beginning to end, with a tour of the island mansions, the ocean shore, and the changing of the leaves, if timed just right. Yes, with scenery comes hills, but nothing too horrendous. It's a nice mid-sized marathon, and the area of Newport provides lots to see and do.
5. LA Marathon
This marathon is an iconic tour of the city of LA. It's a point to point course, starting in downtown and finishing near the Santa Monica Pier. Its only real drawback is the size. It's a rather big marathon, with over 20,000 participants, with a not so great finish area organizationally, but still, running down Hollywood boulevard then Rodeo drive, priceless.
6. Grandma's Marathon:
This marathon is a point-to-point course running along the north shore of Lake Superior. The race begins just outside of Two Harbors, Minnesota and finishes in Duluth’s Canal Park. The last 8-10 miles approach Duluth, offering lively crowds along the way. The town of Duluth is a surprisingly fun town to visit, as well. Organizationally, a top notch marathon.
7. California International Marathon:
This marathon is a point to point course offering a net downhill, boasting that it's a very fast course. It starts in Folsum California, and finishes in front of the state capitol in downtown Sacramento. I found this course appealing because the first 20 miles roll along through small northern California towns and countryside and is pretty quiet, progressively getting noisier as it heads into town.
8. Ogden Utah Marathon:
Although the altitude and terrain can be a challenge, its beauty makes it worthy of the struggle. There is a significant downhill portion in the second half, with a view of this waterfall to boot, which helps. The only real drawback appears to be the weather. More often then not it's a cold wet one. And I mean COLD.
9. The Outerbanks Marathon:
For a truly unique place to visit, North Carolina's outer banks (OBX) is like none other. The marathon starts in Kill Devil Hills and finishes on Roanoke Island in the town of Manteo. Scenic highlights include the Wright Brothers Monument, the Nags Head Wood Nature Preserve, sand dunes, and a gigantic causeway bridge to Roanoke Island. Combined with a pirate theme, titled the "Post Race Pirate Jamboree", this is hands down the best post marathon party ever.
10. Green Bay, Wisconsin Marathon:
I was surprisingly entertained by the uniqueness of this marathon! I'm not even a football fan, but was enthralled with Lambeau field, where the race starts and finishes. In fact, the marathon course runs a lap inside the field just before the finish, which is incredible. I am forever a Packer's fan I guess.
I will be back in a few years (God willing) with an updated list for you!
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