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Madison Marathon
Race Details:
- Location: Madison, WI, USA
- Race Date: 11/15/2026
- Race Distances: Full Marathon, Half Marathon
What This Race Counts Toward:
Boston: Yes
World Marathon Majors: Yes
Madison Marathon Description
The Madison Marathon is a Boston qualifying race that starts and finishes on Capitol Square in the heart of downtown Madison, Wisconsin. The rolling loop course winds through the University of Wisconsin campus, skirts the shores of Lake Monona and Lake Wingra, and passes through Olbrich Park, Tenney Park, and the university’s Arboretum. Numerous small hills add character throughout without overwhelming the course. A half marathon and 10K run the same November morning, making race weekend a full celebration of Madison’s lakes, parks, and college-town energy.
Always check the official race website for the most accurate and up-to-date race information and logistics.
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Madison Marathon Additional Details:
The Madison Marathon’s finisher medal is part of a four-year series, and runners who complete all four editions earn a special center coin that ties the whole set together, turning this into a multi-year collector’s pursuit rather than a one-off souvenir. Aid stations along the course keep it simple and reliable, with water, fruit, and Gatorade at every stop and Gu at select points for runners who need a boost through the rolling hills. The final mile back toward Capitol Square is where the race truly comes alive, with Madison locals lining the streets and cheering loud enough to carry tired runners the rest of the way home. It’s a race that rewards showing up more than once.
Course Information
Profile: Rolling Hills
Type: Loop
Surface: Road/Pavement
Pace Groups: Yes
Time Limit: 6 hours (full), 3 hr 30 min (half)
# of Finishers
Half Marathon: 2,600
Marathon: 1,600
Elevation Details
Elevation Gain: 851 ft (259 m)
Elevation Loss: 851 ft (259 m)
Average Temperature
- Low: 31°F
- High: 45°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.
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.
Structured plans for every experience level, first finish to chasing a new PR.
Things to Do in Madison, WI, USA
Make the most of race weekend — here’s how to fill the time before and after you cross the finish line.
Food & Drink
National Mustard Museum
See thousands of mustard varieties at the free National Mustard Museum, one of Madison’s quirkiest stops — a relaxed, indoor way to refuel after race day.
Landmark
Wisconsin State Capitol
Take a free tour of the Wisconsin State Capitol, including the 6th Floor Observation Deck open in summer — an easy, indoor, low-impact stop after race weekend.
Zoos, Aquariums & Gardens
Henry Vilas Zoo
Visit the free, family-friendly Henry Vilas Zoo, home to animals from around the world — a flat, self-paced walk that’s gentle on recovering legs.
Shopping
State Street
Browse shops, murals, and cafés along State Street, connecting the Capitol to the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus — an easy, flat stroll for a post-race souvenir.
Arts & Culture
Chazen Museum of Art
See free rotating exhibitions at the Chazen Museum of Art on the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus — a relaxed, indoor way to spend a taper day.
Museums & History
Wisconsin Historical Museum
Explore Wisconsin’s story at the Wisconsin Historical Museum on the Capitol Square — an easy, indoor, low-impact stop after race day.
Scenic Drives & Viewpoints
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Wander the outdoor gardens and tropical conservatory at Olbrich Botanical Gardens, a peaceful escape near Lake Monona — a relaxed, flat way to spend a rest day.
Outdoors & Trails
Madison Trail Network
Bike or walk a flat stretch of Madison’s more than 200 miles of trails, connecting parks throughout the city — an easy option for tapering or recovering legs.
Hotels & Lodging Near the Madison Marathon
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