The Best Spring Marathons in the United States for 2023
Spring is a fantastic time of year to participate in a marathon, as the weather is generally more comfortable and the days are longer, providing more opportunities for training and recovery. Whether you are a seasoned runner or a newbie, there are several great spring marathons across the United States to choose from. In this article, we will highlight some of the best spring marathons in the US, giving you inspiration to lace up your running shoes and hit the pavement.
We will also discuss some of the fastest marathons in April, as well as provide reasons why so few top Americans run the Boston Marathon. Whether you are looking for an early spring marathon in the southern US or a later spring marathon in the northern US, there is a race for everyone. So, let us take a closer look at the best spring marathons in the US.
What Are the Best Spring Marathons In the US?
There is no definitive list of the best spring marathons in the US, as everyone has different criteria for what makes a great marathon. However, we have compiled a list of some of the finest spring marathons in the US based on the following factors:
Location and Proximity: Some runners prioritize cities or towns close to their homes, while others prefer rural areas for a quieter environment.
Field Size: The size of the field can also influence one's decision, as larger races may provide more resources and support.
Course Type: Some runners prefer road marathons, while others like trail running for a change of scenery.
Pace Groups and Competition: For competitive runners, having pace groups and a strong field can make a significant difference.
Race Date: Later spring races often allow for longer long runs during the peak of training.
Entry Fees: Entry fees can vary, and some runners prioritize affordable options.
With these factors in mind, we present our top picks for the best spring marathons in the US:
- Boston Marathon, Boston, MA
The Boston Marathon is the oldest annual marathon in the world and is known for its historical significance, challenging course, and strong field. The city of Boston cheering for the runners adds to the excitement.
- Mountains 2 Beach Marathon, Ojai, CA
The Mountains 2 Beach Marathon offers a scenic course along bike paths and net downhill profile, making it one of the fastest marathons in the USA. The unique point-to-point format also provides a change of scenery.
- Eugene Marathon, Eugene, OR
The Eugene Marathon features an extremely flat and fast course that is perfect for breaking personal records. The beautiful route through parks and tree-lined paths, as well as the track town heritage of Eugene, make it stand out.
- Myrtle Beach Marathon, Myrtle Beach, SC
The Myrtle Beach Marathon is an early spring marathon that offers ocean views and a relatively flat course. Perfect for runners looking to avoid the summer heat and enjoy a seaside escape.
- Bayshore Marathon, Traverse City, MI
The Bayshore Marathon is one of the late spring marathons that takes place along the scenic shores of Grand Traverse Bay. The flatter course and the out-and-back format make for a great racing experience.
- Carmel Marathon, Carmel, IN
The Carmel Marathon offers a well-organized race with supportive volunteer groups and a nice post-race celebration. Scenic course with some of the best spring marathons in the US for training and racing. The race organizers go above and beyond to ensure a quality experience for all participants.
- Denver Marathon, Ft. Collins, Colorado
The Denver Marathon has a net downhill course that is perfect for fast times, while also providing exposure to high altitudes in Colorado. The scenic course through the Poudre River Canyon makes for a picturesque run.
- Grandma's Marathon, Duluth, MN
The Grandma's Marathon is one of the most popular spring marathons in the US, drawing a field of nearly 10,000 runners. Well-organized with great crowd support, wide variety of distances, and affordable entry fees, it's no wonder the Grandma's Marathon is a favorite among runners.
- San Francisco Marathon, San Francisco, CA
The San Francisco Marathon, despite being a summer race, is a large marathon that retains a small-town feel. scenic course with amazing landmarks and views makes it stand out even among marathons.
Fastest Marathons in April
Several marathons in April are among the fastest in the nation, with PR scores, BQ percentages, and elevation gains that make them ideal choices for time trial and peak training efforts. Below are some of the fastest marathons in April:
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REVEL Mt. Charleston Marathon, Las Vegas, NV
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Jim Thorpe Marathon, Jim Thorpe, PA
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Vernonia Marathon, Banks, OR
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Mountains 2 Beach Marathon, Ventura, CA
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Coast Guard Marathon, Elizabeth City, NC
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Gopher Attack Marathon, Regina, SK
