Lanzhou Marathon

Lanzhou Marathon course route

The Lanzhou Marathon is a riverside urban road that starts and finishes along the Yellow River waterfront in central Lanzhou. The loop follows Binhe Road beside the Yellow River, passes the Zhongshan Bridge and White Pagoda Mountain viewpoints, and crosses riverside parks before returning to the city-centre finish. The flat profile keeps rhythm steady throughout, with only minor bridge ramps or short rises interrupting otherwise even pacing. Spectators gather along the waterfront, at the start-finish festival, and at organised cheer stations on the most scenic coastal stretches.

Lanzhou Marathon elevation profile

The Lanzhou Marathon course is mostly flat with gentle undulations over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 100 metres of climbing and 95 metres of descent, with a net climb of 5 metres from start to finish.

Entry requirements

The Lanzhou Marathon is typically held on the first Sunday of June. Registration opens through https://www.lanzhou-marathon.com/ and fills quickly given the race's status as one of China's largest marathons.

Lanzhou Marathon course video

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

Lanzhou Marathon 2023 Highlights | 40,000 Participants Running in the Marathon | 11 June 2023 China

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Lanzhou Marathon elevation profile?

The Lanzhou Marathon has 100 metres of total climbing and 95 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is mostly flat with gentle undulations, with 5 metres of net climb from start to finish.

How long is the Lanzhou Marathon?

The Lanzhou Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Riverside urban road starts and finishes along the Yellow River waterfront in central Lanzhou.

Is the Lanzhou Marathon flat?

Yes. The Lanzhou Marathon is mostly flat with gentle undulations with 100 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 Lanzhou Marathon start?

The 2027 Lanzhou Marathon starts at 7:30 am local time on Sunday, 6 June 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.lanzhou-marathon.com/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.

Where does the Lanzhou Marathon start and finish?

The race starts and finishes along the Yellow River waterfront in central Lanzhou, near the historic Zhongshan Bridge area. The loop follows Binhe Road on both banks of the Yellow River before returning to the city-centre finish zone.

When is the Lanzhou Marathon and how do I register?

The Lanzhou Marathon is typically held on the first Sunday of June. Registration opens through https://www.lanzhou-marathon.com/ and fills quickly given the race's status as one of China's largest marathons.

How does Lanzhou's altitude affect the marathon?

Lanzhou sits at roughly 1,500 m (4,900 ft) above sea level. The flat riverside course is fast on paper, but the thin air can slow pace and increase perceived effort — acclimatise if possible and pace conservatively in the first half.

What landmarks does the Lanzhou Marathon pass?

Runners see the Yellow River, Zhongshan Bridge, White Pagoda Mountain, and the riverside parks that define Lanzhou's identity as a Silk Road river city. The course stays close to the water for much of the distance.

What weather should runners expect in Lanzhou in June?

June in Lanzhou brings warm, dry highland conditions, often 18–28 °C (64–82 °F) with strong sun along the exposed riverside. Hydration and sun protection are important despite the relatively dry Gansu climate.