Lanzhou Marathon

LanzhouGansuChina

Next race

Sunday, 23 May 2027

7:30 am start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Riverside urban road

Elevation

Rolling · 100 m gain

100 m climbing

Race profile

Overview

The Lanzhou Marathon is one of China's largest road races, drawing approximately 40k finishers along the Yellow River through Gansu's highland capital. Runners follow the riverside promenade past the Zhongshan Bridge, White Pagoda Mountain, and the iron bridge that symbolises Lanzhou's Silk Road heritage. The June race date and roughly 1,500 m elevation make it a distinctive western-China marathon where thin air and Yellow River views define the experience.

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

Typical participants: Approximately 40k finishers

Weather: Warm and dry summer
19–22°C · humidity 35–50%
Marathon weather guide →

Course & terrain

Lanzhou Marathon course

Route map and elevation profile for race-week planning.

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 route map

Registration

Lanzhou Marathon entry requirements

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

Common questions

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 rolling, with 5 metres of net climb from start to finish.
Where can I find the Lanzhou Marathon route map?: This page includes a Lanzhou Marathon course map showing the full 42.195 km route from start to finish. 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.
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.
What time does the Lanzhou Marathon start?: The 2027 Lanzhou Marathon starts at 7:30 am local time on Sunday, 23 May 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications 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 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.

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

Close to this race

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