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City of Trees Marathon
Race Details:
- Location: Boise, ID, USA
- Race Date: 10/10/2026
- Race Distances: Full Marathon, Half Marathon
What This Race Counts Toward:
Boston: Yes
World Marathon Majors: Yes
City of Trees Marathon Description
The City of Trees Marathon follows the Boise River Greenbelt every October, giving runners front-row views of the water and Boise’s namesake fall foliage. The Boston-qualifying, USATF-certified course is mostly flat and largely traffic-free, running the half marathon’s out-and-back route once for the half and twice for the full. Along the way, runners pass through Ann Morrison Park, Kristin Armstrong Municipal Park, and several pedestrian bridges over the river. It’s a scenic, welcoming option for a fall PR in the heart of downtown Boise.
Always check the official race website for the most accurate and up-to-date race information and logistics.
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City of Trees Marathon Additional Details:
Boise is a dog-friendly running town, and this race leans into it: aid stations along the Greenbelt set out water bowls and treats for four-legged race-day companions, a small touch that says a lot about the local running culture here. The finisher medal itself is oversized, a genuine statement piece even if the design stays understated. Because the out-and-back route runs almost entirely along the river beneath a canopy of trees, the soundtrack for most of the race is running water and rustling leaves rather than traffic or crowd noise, a rare kind of quiet for a certified Boston qualifier. Post-race, finishers refuel with real food and drinks plus a spread of sponsor swag rather than just a granola bar and banana.
Course Information
Profile: Mostly Flat
Type: Multiple Out and Backs
Surface: Road/Pavement
Pace Groups: No
Time Limit: 6 hours (full), 5.5 hours (half)
# of Finishers
Half Marathon: 400
Marathon: 250 to 300
Elevation Details
Elevation Gain: 80 ft (Half), 160 ft (Marathon)
Elevation Loss: 80 ft (Half), 160 ft (Marathon)
Average Temperature
- Low: 42°F
- High: 66°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.
Things to Do in Boise, ID, USA
Make the most of race weekend — here’s how to fill the time before and after you cross the finish line.
Sports & Entertainment
Boise Hawks at Memorial Stadium
Catch a Boise Hawks baseball game at Memorial Stadium for a relaxed, low-key summer evening — a seated, easy way to unwind after race day.
Museums & History
Idaho State Historical Museum
Explore Idaho history at the Idaho State Historical Museum inside Julia Davis Park — an easy, air-conditioned, low-impact stop for recovering legs after race day.
Outdoors & Trails
Boise River Greenbelt
Walk or bike a flat stretch of the 25-mile Boise River Greenbelt, which winds from Discovery Park through downtown to Eagle Island State Park — easy on tired legs.
Shopping
Capital City Public Market
Shop five blocks of local vendors with live music at the Capital City Public Market — an easy, flat, walkable way to spend a Saturday morning.
Arts & Culture
Boise Art Museum
Browse rotating exhibits at the Boise Art Museum, also inside Julia Davis Park, spanning contemporary and classic works — a relaxed, indoor rest-day visit after race weekend.
Scenic Drives & Viewpoints
Julia Davis Park Rose Garden
Stroll the formal Rose Garden and shaded pavilions at Julia Davis Park, Boise’s oldest and most beloved city park — a flat, relaxing rest-day option after race weekend.
Food & Drink
Lost Grove Brewing & Payette Brewing
Sample a local pour at Lost Grove Brewing or Payette Brewing along the Greenbelt, two of Boise’s favorite craft breweries — a relaxed way to celebrate the finish.
Landmark
Idaho State Capitol
Tour the Idaho State Capitol, the city’s architectural and political centerpiece — a mostly flat, easy walk through beautiful grounds and marble halls after race day.
Zoos, Aquariums & Gardens
Zoo Boise
See Amur tigers, sloths, and Komodo dragons at Zoo Boise, tucked inside Julia Davis Park — a flat, self-paced walk that’s easy on recovering legs.
Hotels & Lodging Near the City of Trees Marathon
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