Baltimore Running Festival Marathon

BaltimoreMarylandUnited States

Next race

Saturday, 17 October 2026

8:00 am start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Urban road

Elevation

Rolling · 150 m gain

150 m climbing

Race profile

Overview

The Baltimore Running Festival Marathon draws approximately 1,625 finishers each October through Charm City on the Chesapeake Bay. The course passes Fort McHenry (birthplace of the Star-Spangled Banner), the Inner Harbor, and Johns Hopkins University on rolling Mid-Atlantic terrain. October's crisp Baltimore autumn and the harbour-city scenery make it Maryland's premier marathon.

Baltimore Running Festival Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.

Typical participants: Approximately 1,625 finishers

Weather: Cool to mild and humid autumn
11–16°C · humidity 65–80%
Marathon weather guide →

Course & terrain

Baltimore Running Festival Marathon course

Route map and elevation profile for race-week planning.

The Baltimore Running Festival Marathon is an urban road that starts at Paca St & Camden St and finishes on Pratt St near the USS Constellation and Inner Harbor (McKeldin Square, West Shore Park, Rash Field). The loop passes Federal Hill, Fells Point, the Maryland Zoo, and Lake Montebello. Flatter corridors and river valleys offer the easiest miles, while moderate climbs through hills, bridges, and harbour neighbourhoods are the tougher sections once fatigue builds. Spectators gather at the start-finish festival and at organised cheer zones through the Inner Harbor and along the main boulevards.

Baltimore Running Festival Marathon route map

Registration

Baltimore Running Festival Marathon entry requirements

For the Baltimore Running Festival Marathon, the Baltimore marathon is held in October, typically on the fourth Saturday. Registration is at https://www.thebaltimoremarathon.com/.

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Baltimore Running Festival Marathon elevation profile?: The Baltimore Running Festival Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
Where can I find the Baltimore Running Festival Marathon route map?: This page includes a Baltimore Running Festival Marathon course map showing the full 42.195 km route from start to finish. Passes Federal Hill, Fells Point, the Maryland Zoo, and Lake Montebello.
How long is the Baltimore Running Festival Marathon?: The Baltimore Running Festival Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts at Paca St & Camden St and finishes on Pratt St near the USS Constellation and Inner Harbor (McKeldin Square, West Shore Park, Rash Field).
What time does the Baltimore Running Festival Marathon start?: The 2026 Baltimore Running Festival Marathon starts at 8:00 am local time on Saturday, 17 October 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Does the Baltimore marathon pass Fort McHenry?: Yes. Fort McHenry, where the Star-Spangled Banner was written during the War of 1812, is a historic centrepiece of the course.
When is the Baltimore Running Festival Marathon?: The Baltimore marathon is held in October, typically on the fourth Saturday.
Is the Baltimore marathon hilly?: Baltimore's harbour hills add rolling terrain with moderate climbs. Federal Hill and the Johns Hopkins area are the main elevation challenges.
Where does the Baltimore marathon finish?: The finish is at Camden Yards near the Inner Harbor, with the Baltimore skyline and harbour as backdrop.
What weather should I expect in Baltimore in October?: October in Baltimore is crisp Mid-Atlantic autumn, often 10–18 °C (50–64 °F). Chesapeake Bay breezes can be refreshing.

Last updated 11 October 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.

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