Best running destinations in North America
Best running destinations in North America
Long distance national park paths and urban river corridor tracks in North America
One major race remains the only major marathon requiring a qualifying time for most entrants, giving it a status unlike any other race on the continent. A larger city's marathon, by contrast, runs through multiple boroughs as one of the largest participation events in the world.
The destinations on this list range from qualifying races with serious competitive prestige to large-scale participation events built around accessibility rather than elite times. A high-altitude capital further south adds its own distinct training challenge.
Checking qualifying times well in advance matters specifically for the most competitive races, where standards are reviewed and adjusted based on demand each year. Entry systems vary considerably between lottery allocation and charity places. Packing for sudden weather changes also matters considerably depending on the specific course and season.
Lists by region
City in United States
New York City
Five boroughs of skyline, food and museums
Fast, crowded and full of energy, this city lets runners circle Central Park on a loop of about six miles. The New York City Marathon is held in November and crosses all five boroughs. The East River and Hudson River paths give long skyline views.
City in United States
Boston
Historic charm meets modern innovation
As the home of the Boston Marathon, run since 1897, this city treats running as a tradition. The race takes place on Patriots' Day in April. Most runners need a qualifying time. The Charles River Esplanade has flat paths with water views and is busy with runners all year.
City in Canada
Whistler
Alpine Adventure, Epic Views, Year-Round Fun
This mountain town has trails that are usually free of snow from July to September. The Valley Trail links lakes, parks and villages on about 40 kilometres of mostly paved paths. Mountain trails climb to high viewpoints. Black bears are common near the trails, so stay alert.
City in United States
San Francisco
Iconic bridges, rolling hills and vibrant culture
Bay to Breakers, a 12 kilometre race held each May, is known for runners in costumes. Routes cross the Golden Gate Bridge and climb hills in the Presidio. Along the waterfront the Embarcadero is flat. Locals bring layers, since mornings are often foggy and cool.
City in United States
Flagstaff
High desert charm meets mountain serenity
Higher than Denver at about 2,100 metres, this mountain city draws professional runners for altitude training. Trails start at Buffalo Park and climb through pine forest towards the San Francisco Peaks. The Arizona Trail passes nearby. Summers are cooler here than in Phoenix, which is a short drive south.
City in United States
Honolulu
Aloha Vibes and Ocean Adventures
Located on the south shore of Oahu, this city has runs along Waikiki and around Diamond Head. The Honolulu Marathon is held each December and has no time limit. Kapiolani Park offers shaded loops. Early starts give cooler air and fewer crowds on the Waikiki streets.
National Park in Canada
Banff National Park
Majestic Peaks and Turquoise Lakes
Located in the Canadian Rockies of Alberta, this park has trails from the town of Banff to lakes and viewpoints. The Bow River path is gentle and flat. The Banff Marathon is held in June. Wildlife such as elk and bears is common, so carry bear spray.
City in United States
Moab
Red rock canyons echo adventure seekers' dreams
Moab was a uranium mining town in the 1950s and is now surrounded by red rock canyons. Trails in Arches and Canyonlands national parks cross slickrock and sand. Spring and autumn are ideal seasons for long runs, since summer highs often pass 35 degrees Celsius.
State/Prefecture in United States
Colorado
Rocky mountains and red rocks
Many elite runners train in Boulder, which sits about 1,650 metres above sea level. Trails climb into the Rocky Mountains from many towns across this state. Races include the Pikes Peak Ascent and the Leadville Trail 100 in summer. Visitors should allow a few days to adjust to the altitude.
City in United States
Bend
Mountain town that's got it all
Bend grew around lumber mills in the early 1900s and is now a hub for outdoor sports. Paths along the Deschutes River run through pine forest and past waterfalls. Pilot Butte is a short steep climb with city views. Many trail networks start near downtown.
City in Canada
Vancouver
Where mountains, ocean and city life meet
As a compact coastal city, this place has running routes between the mountains and the sea. The Stanley Park Seawall is nearly nine kilometres around the park. Trails on the North Shore climb steeply into forest. Rain is common in winter, so pack a light jacket.
City in United States
Chicago
Skyline, Deep-Dish and Jazz Nights
Winters are cold and windy in this city, so most runners head for the Lakefront Trail in spring and autumn. This paved path follows Lake Michigan for about 30 kilometres. The Chicago Marathon is held in October on a flat course that is popular for fast times.
Region in United States
Big Sur
Coastal cliffs and luminous sunsets
Wild and rugged, this coast has cliffs, redwoods and ocean views along Highway 1. The Big Sur International Marathon runs from Big Sur to Carmel each April. State parks such as Pfeiffer Big Sur have shaded forest trails. Landslides sometimes close the highway, so check road status.
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