Calgary Marathon

Calgary Marathon course route

The Calgary Marathon is a loop starting and finishing at Fort Calgary, following the Bow River pathway past Stampede Park through the inner city. The route is mostly flat but the roughly 1,050 m altitude can affect pacing, and spectators gather at Fort Calgary and along the riverside paths.

Calgary Marathon route map

Official course map — view on race website

Calgary Marathon elevation profile

The Calgary Marathon course is mostly flat with gentle undulations over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 133 metres of climbing and 133 metres of descent, with minimal net elevation change from start to finish.

Entry requirements

The Calgary Marathon uses open online registration at calgarymarathon.com, with sign-up typically opening in winter for the May race. The field of around 3,200 finishers fills on a first-come basis with tiered pricing — no ballot or qualifying standard for the full marathon. Charity bibs are available when general entry sells out.

Calgary Marathon course video

Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.

2026 Servus Calgary Marathon - Centaur Subaru 21.1 km Course Preview

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Calgary Marathon elevation profile?

The Calgary Marathon has 133 metres of total climbing and 133 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is mostly flat with gentle undulations, with 0 metres of net change from start to finish.

Where can I find the Calgary Marathon route map?

This page includes a Calgary Marathon course map showing the full 42.195 km route from start to finish. The official course map is published at www.calgarymarathon.com/course/. Follows the Bow River pathway and passes Stampede Park.

How long is the Calgary Marathon?

The Calgary Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts and finishes at Fort Calgary.

Is the Calgary Marathon flat?

Yes. The Calgary Marathon is mostly flat with gentle undulations with 133 metres of total climbing over 42.195 km (26.2 miles) — a profile that suits runners chasing personal bests or Boston qualifying times.

What time does the Calgary Marathon start?

The 2027 Calgary Marathon starts at 7:00 am local time on Sunday, 23 May 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.calgarymarathon.com/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.

Does the Calgary Marathon route follow the Bow River pathway?

Yes. The Bow River pathway system — Calgary's beloved multi-use trail network running along both banks of the Bow River — forms a central part of the marathon course. Runners travel through riverside parkland that offers a peaceful contrast to the surrounding urban environment.

Can runners see the Rocky Mountains from the Calgary Marathon course?

On clear days, yes. Calgary sits at the edge of the prairies with the Rocky Mountains visible to the west, and sections of the Bow River pathway offer unobstructed sightlines toward the peaks — a dramatic backdrop that runners from outside Alberta find remarkable.

When is the Calgary Marathon held?

The Calgary Marathon is held in late May, typically over the Victoria Day long weekend, when spring has arrived on the prairies and temperatures — usually 8–18 °C — are ideal for distance running.

What is the weather like at the Calgary Marathon in May?

May in Calgary can be variable — early May can bring cold snaps, while late May is generally warm and sunny. Race-morning temperatures typically range from 8 °C to 18 °C. Runners should check forecasts carefully and be prepared for anything from light frost to warm sunshine.

Is the Calgary Marathon a good course for a Boston Qualifier?

Yes. The mostly flat Bow River pathway course with only approximately 133 metres of total climbing, combined with cool Alberta spring temperatures, makes Calgary a solid BQ option for runners in western Canada. The race holds Athletics Canada certification.