Toronto Waterfront Marathon
Toronto, Canada · Mid-October
Flat lakeshore running where Canadian records routinely fall. A gentle drop to the waterfront early, then long, straight, cool kilometres — the obvious BQ pick north of the border.
Course
Elevation gain
80 m
Net elevation
Flat
Finishers
~10,000
Month
October
Mid-October
Race-day weather
Median start temp
7°C
Historical range
1–15°C
Hot-year risk
Low
Mid-October on Lake Ontario is reliably cold at the start — bring throwaway layers, race in singlet weather.
Getting in
First-come, first-served. Canada's fastest big marathon; entry stays open late by fall-season standards. Official site ↗
Pacing plans for Toronto Waterfront 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 Toronto Waterfront Marathon a fast course?
Yes, it is a fast course by big-marathon standards. The course has 80 m of total elevation gain and no net drop. We rate it 8/10 for PR potential.
What is the weather usually like at the Toronto Waterfront Marathon?
The median start-line temperature is around 7°C, with a historical range of roughly 1–15°C. Mid-October on Lake Ontario is reliably cold at the start — bring throwaway layers, race in singlet weather.
How do you get into the Toronto Waterfront Marathon?
First-come, first-served. Canada's fastest big marathon; entry stays open late by fall-season standards.
Is the Toronto Waterfront Marathon a Boston qualifier?
Yes — the Toronto Waterfront Marathon is a certified course accepted by the B.A.A. for Boston qualifying times.