Marine Corps Marathon
Washington, D.C., USA · Last Sunday of October
Monuments, Marines at every aid station, and a course that's hillier than its reputation: real climbs in the first 10 km, the lonely Hains Point stretch at km 30, and the famous final hill to the Iwo Jima Memorial. An experience race with a respectable-but-honest profile.
Course
Elevation gain
200 m
Net elevation
Flat
Finishers
~20,000
Month
October
Last Sunday of October
Race-day weather
Median start temp
9°C
Historical range
3–18°C
Hot-year risk
Low
Late October in D.C. is usually crisp; the exposed Hains Point miles feel colder than the forecast.
Getting in
Lottery. Lottery each spring; 'The People's Marathon' has no prize money and no elite field — just 20,000 runners and the Marines. Official site ↗
Pacing plans for Marine Corps Marathon
Course-adjusted splits for every common goal — not flat even splits, but pacing that matches where this course is fast and where it bites.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Marine Corps Marathon a fast course?
It is not considered a PR course. The course has 200 m of total elevation gain and no net drop. We rate it 5/10 for PR potential.
What is the weather usually like at the Marine Corps Marathon?
The median start-line temperature is around 9°C, with a historical range of roughly 3–18°C. Late October in D.C. is usually crisp; the exposed Hains Point miles feel colder than the forecast.
How do you get into the Marine Corps Marathon?
Lottery. Lottery each spring; 'The People's Marathon' has no prize money and no elite field — just 20,000 runners and the Marines.
Is the Marine Corps Marathon a Boston qualifier?
Yes — the Marine Corps Marathon is a certified course accepted by the B.A.A. for Boston qualifying times.