Edmonton Marathon

Edmonton Marathon course route

The Edmonton Marathon is a loop that starts and finishes at the Alberta Legislature and follows the North Saskatchewan River valley trails through the city. It is mostly flat with gentle undulations on the valley paths, and spectators gather at the Legislature grounds and along the river trails.

Edmonton Marathon elevation profile

The Edmonton Marathon course is mostly flat with gentle undulations over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 153 metres of climbing and 153 metres of descent, with minimal net elevation change from start to finish.

Entry requirements

The Edmonton Marathon uses open online registration at edmontonmarathon.ca for the August race. The field of around 3,200 finishers is allocated first-come, first-served with no ballot or qualifying time required. Early sign-up secures lower tier pricing before the river-valley course reaches capacity.

Edmonton Marathon course videos

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

Servus Edmonton Marathon 2024 Highlights

Edmonton Running Club (Winchmore Hill, UK) - Introduction

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Edmonton Marathon elevation profile?

The Edmonton Marathon has 153 metres of total climbing and 153 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.

How long is the Edmonton Marathon?

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

What time does the Edmonton Marathon start?

The 2026 Edmonton Marathon starts at 7:00 am local time on Sunday, 23 August 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.edmontonmarathon.ca/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.

Does the Edmonton Marathon run through the North Saskatchewan River Valley?

Yes. Edmonton's North Saskatchewan River Valley — one of the largest stretches of urban parkland in North America — is a centrepiece of the marathon course. Runners descend into the valley and travel along its scenic paved pathways, enjoying lush green riverbanks that feel remote despite being in the heart of the city.

Is the Edmonton Marathon a flat course?

The river valley pathway sections are pleasantly flat, and the overall course elevation gain of approximately 153 metres is modest. The main vertical challenge comes from descending into and climbing out of the valley rather than any sustained steep hills.

What is the weather like at the Edmonton Marathon in August?

August in Edmonton is typically warm and dry with long daylight hours — temperatures usually range from 14 °C to 22 °C on race morning. The low humidity of the Alberta climate makes conditions more comfortable than similar temperatures in more humid regions of Canada.

When is the Edmonton Marathon held?

The Edmonton Marathon is held in late August, typically the fourth Sunday of the month, at the peak of Alberta's summer. The timing means runners can take advantage of Edmonton's nearly 16 hours of daylight and reliably dry weather.

Is the Edmonton Marathon an accepted Boston Qualifier race?

Yes. The Edmonton Marathon is held on a certified road course and times run here are accepted for Boston Marathon qualification by the BAA, making it a convenient option for Canadian runners in the Prairie provinces.