What are the fastest marathon courses in the US? We look at number of Boston Qualifiers, weather and finishers o find out!
If you’re in the mood for running a personal best time or finally hitting a qualifying time for a big race like Boston or London, you might be on the hunt for the fastest courses in the U.S.
In which case, we’ve got you covered. Just remember there are limits now on the net downhill courses!
We have removed all of the Revel races because while they are fast, they no longer count as qualifiers. You’ll find one here for those who still want that extra speed and aren’t focused on a BQ, but a PR. Additionally, we removed some of the very small races which may have a high % of qualifiers, but it’s more due to who is running than the course.
California International Marathon
- Sacramento, CA
- December
- Around 20-25% of runners qualify for the Boston Marathon.
Widely considered to be one of the fastest marathon courses in the United States, this course takes place in the winter in Northern California, virtually ensuring a chilly race day.
It’s a point-to-point race with only a few turns and a net downhill of around 300 feet. The race is friendly for elite runners as well, who report that it is great for negative splits (running a faster second half than first) as well as running a personal best time.
A reminder that this is a ROLLING hills course! You will still need to be prepared for that and potentially for a humid morning. Part of the speed is who registers for this race and has brought up it’s level.
St. George Marathon
- St. George, UT
- October
- Around 18-22% of races qualify for the Boston Marathon
- NO LONGER BQ eligible, but still fast
This fast course comes with the bonus of a gorgeous view that features red rock canyons in October. Who doesn’t love a view while hitting a personal best time, right?
The course does have a significant net downhill of over 2,600 feet, but that high altitude start can be tough on a runner’s quads.
Downhill races can help with PR’s but they aren’t a guarantee if you haven’t done the training. Make sure you’ve spent some time doing downhill strength work.
Mohawk Hudson River Marathon
- Albany, NY
- October
- Around 15-20% of runners qualify for the Boston Marathon
It’s hard to beat October in New England, and this course doesn’t miss – and you won’t miss your personal best, either.
It features shaded bike paths and a straight course, with a net downhill of 875 feet (still a qualifier). The weather is typically not only nice, but optimal, with cool, dry temperatures nearly a lock.
Sea level is going to give any of us coming from the mountains a boost. But again remember there are still 500 feet of elevation gain which is double the Chicago marathon, a notoriously fast course.
Mesa Marathon
- Mesa, AZ
- January
- Up to 23% of runners Boston Qualify
We love a good point-to-point course with some easy net downhill running. This one still falls under the guidelines to BQ and it’s a well done race.
Having raced it ourselves and with many, many athletes the number of PR’s still surprises us every year. With great weather and easy organization, there aren’t a ton of distractions or wasted time on feet prior to race morning.
While the course isn’t the most scenic, when you’re running fast who cares!
Indianapolis Monumental Marathon
- Indianapolis, IN
- November
- Around 15-20% of runners qualify for the Boston Marathon.
This fast, flat, urban course has very little change in elevation.
The weather is typically cool and dry, and many runners report achieving a personal best. As a bonus, the race also has decent crowd support and often feels like a bigger race than it actually is.
This has continually been among a favorite for many looking for a Fall Marathon in the US. We really recommend it and a smart fueling plan to go hard and hit big goals.
Grandma’s Marathon
- Duluth, MN
- June
- Avg 17% Boston Qualifying times (weather has only impacted this a few years)
This point-to-point course is mostly flat, with a few gently rolling hills. It takes runners in search of a personal best time on a scenic path along Lake Superior, and although June could tend to be warmer, it’s often quite temperate in Minnesota.
The lake views and support from staff and spectators is a definite bonus, and around 18-22% of runners qualify for Boston.
A smaller field makes this race hard to get in to and it sells out every single year. Folks know it’s fast and has good temps, so plan ahead if you put this one on your list.
Houston Marathon
- Houston, TX
- January
- Average 15% Boston Qualify
This urban course is flat and fast, and the January weather in Houston is cool, but not freezing cold. The roads are paved and there is little-to-no elevation change, making it more likely that you’ll achieve that personal best time you’re after.
The event is well managed and offers pace groups for Boston qualifying times and PR’s. It’s why it was used for the Olympic Marathon Trials at one point.
Coach Amanda has run this course and agrees with the very flat nature. Remember that for some of you used to hills this can be harder because you don’t change what muscle groups are being used!
What Makes A Course Fast
These courses typically feature flat terrain, don’t have many tricky turns, and take place in areas with cooler overall temperatures and lower elevation (I.e. often at sea level).
If a course is well-known for being fast or helping runners make qualifying times, you’re more likely to run with others who are like-minded and competitive, which can be offer a boost to your mental and physical momentum when focused on running your personal best race.
Every marathon is a challenge, but these races are known for being good for runners looking to qualify for a major marathon or run a personal best.
If you’re looking to tackle one or both of those achievements in the near future, then some or all of these marathons should be on your short list!
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