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San Francisco Marathon
Race Details:
- Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
- Race Date: 07/25/2027
- Race Distances: Full Marathon, Half Marathon, Ultra Marathon
What This Race Counts Toward:
Boston: Yes
World Marathon Majors: No
San Francisco Marathon Description
The San Francisco Marathon crosses the Golden Gate Bridge and tours the Embarcadero and Fisherman’s Wharf each July, mixing scenic waterfront miles with the city’s famously hilly terrain. A half marathon and relay run alongside the full distance, drawing runners from around the world for the views alone. Enthusiastic crowd support and a vibrant atmosphere make this one of the most memorable urban marathons in the country.
Always check the official race website for the most accurate and up-to-date race information and logistics.
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San Francisco Marathon Additional Details:
The finisher medal here has become a genuine collector’s item: a golden design that folds open to reveal a miniature rendering of the Golden Gate Bridge, distinct from the more subdued styles used in past years. Fourteen aid stations support the full marathon, stocked with water, electrolytes, and toilets, with select stops at miles 4, 7, and 10 adding energy chews from official nutrition partner Skratch Labs. Reviewers note hydration is never in short supply, though pack a gel or two of your own since on-course nutrition options stay light otherwise. Between the bridge crossing and the bay views, this is a race people run as much for the scenery as the medal.
Course Information
Profile: Hilly
Type: Loop
Surface: Road/Pavement
Pace Groups: Yes
Time Limit: Unknown
# of Finishers
Half Marathon: 8,000+
Marathon: 5,500+
Ultramarathon: 50 to 100
Elevation Details
Elevation Gain: 900 ft (274 m)
Elevation Loss: 900 ft (274 m)
Average Temperature
- Low: 50°F
- High: 65°F
Train Smarter for Race Day
A great race starts long before the starting line. Whether you’re chasing your first finish or hunting a new PR, a structured training plan takes the guesswork out of race prep — building your fitness, your confidence, and your mileage at the right pace for you.
Explore plans for every distance and experience level, from your first 5K to your next ultra.
Structured plans for every experience level, first finish to chasing a new PR.
Plans for every ultra distance, from your first one to your longest day yet.
Beginner, intermediate, and advanced plans to get you to the start line ready.
Your bridge into marathons, with a plan built for stepping up the distance.
Things to Do in San Francisco, CA, USA
Make the most of race weekend — here’s how to fill the time before and after you cross the finish line.
Zoos, Aquariums & Gardens
San Francisco Zoo & Gardens
See wildlife up close at the San Francisco Zoo & Gardens, a family-friendly stop near the coast — a flat, self-paced walk that’s gentle on recovering legs.
Arts & Culture
de Young Museum
See American art and 360-degree city views from the Hamon Tower at the de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park — a relaxed, indoor way to spend a taper day.
Sports & Entertainment
The Presidio
Explore art trails and stunning views throughout the Presidio, a former military post turned national park — a relaxed, low-impact way to spend an afternoon after race day.
Outdoors & Trails
Golden Gate Park
Walk or bike the bridle paths and green lawns of Golden Gate Park, home to more than 7,000 kinds of plants — an easy option for tapering or recovering legs.
Landmark
Ghirardelli Square
Wander Ghirardelli Square, a historic chocolate factory turned shopping and dining destination since 1852 — an easy, flat, low-impact stop after race weekend.
Scenic Drives & Viewpoints
Japanese Tea Garden
Wander the Japanese Tea Garden inside Golden Gate Park, one of the oldest public Japanese gardens in the country — a relaxed, flat way to spend a rest day.
Museums & History
California Academy of Sciences
Explore an aquarium, planetarium, rainforest, and natural history museum all under one roof at the California Academy of Sciences — an easy, indoor, low-impact stop after race day.
Hotels & Lodging Near the San Francisco Marathon
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