Overview
The Austin Marathon attracts about 10,000 finishers each February through Texas's capital city. The course passes the State Capitol, the University of Texas campus, and the rolling hills of south Austin with live music at multiple stages. February mild Texas weather and the 'Live Music Capital of the World' race atmosphere make it one of the largest marathons in the Southwest.
Austin Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Austin Marathon 2027 race day
The next Austin Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 21 February 2027 with a 7:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 150 m of climbing on a rolling with notable hills layout.
Austin Marathon course route
The Austin Marathon is a loop starting and finishing at the Texas State Capitol, running past the University of Texas, Lady Bird Lake, and rolling south Austin neighbourhoods. The hills in south Austin are the main challenge while the lakefront offers flatter recovery miles, and spectators gather at the Capitol and at cheer zones downtown and along the water.
Austin Marathon elevation profile
The Austin Marathon course is rolling with notable hills over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 150 metres of climbing and 140 metres of descent, with a net climb of 10 metres from start to finish.
Entry requirements
The Austin Marathon uses open registration at youraustinmarathon.com with no ballot or qualifying standard. Sign-up for the February race typically opens the previous spring and the full marathon can sell out given demand for the live-music course through the Texas capital. Tiered pricing increases closer to race day.
Austin Marathon course video
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
A look at the course for the 2026 Austin Marathon
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Austin Marathon elevation profile?
- The Austin Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling with notable hills, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
- How long is the Austin Marathon?
- The Austin Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts and finishes at the Texas State Capitol on Congress Avenue.
- What time does the Austin Marathon start?
- The 2027 Austin Marathon starts at 7:00 am local time on Sunday, 21 February 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.youraustinmarathon.com/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Where does the Austin Marathon finish?
- The finish is at the Texas State Capitol on Congress Avenue in downtown Austin.
- Does the Austin Marathon have live music?
- Yes. Austin's 'Live Music Capital' identity means live bands perform at stages along the course.
- Is the Austin Marathon flat?
- No. South Austin's rolling hills add challenge, especially in the second half.
- What is Austin weather in February?
- February is mild, typically 8–18 °C (46–64 °F), with variable Texas weather.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
