Perth Marathon

Perth Marathon course route

The Perth Marathon is a Swan River loop starting and finishing at the WACA Ground, following the foreshore through South Perth and passing Kings Park. The riverside flats are the easiest because they stay smooth and level, while the gentle climbs toward Kings Park and exposed foreshore wind are the tougher sections; crowd support is strongest at the WACA, along the South Perth foreshore, and around the Kings Park approaches.

Perth Marathon elevation profile

The Perth Marathon course is mostly flat with gentle undulations over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 187 metres of climbing and 187 metres of descent, with minimal net elevation change from start to finish.

Entry requirements

The Perth Running Festival Marathon uses open online registration at perthrunningfestival.com.au for the October race. The field of around 6,000 finishers is allocated first-come, first-served with no ballot or qualifying time required. Sign-up typically opens mid-year and the Swan River course can sell out before race week.

Perth Marathon course video

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

12 km course - Chevron City to Surf for Activ Perth - Elevation Profile and Terrain Map

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Perth Marathon elevation profile?

The Perth Marathon has 187 metres of total climbing and 187 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.

Is the Perth Marathon flat?

Yes. The Perth Marathon is mostly flat with gentle undulations with 187 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 Perth Marathon start?

The 2026 Perth Marathon starts at 6:00 am local time on Sunday, 11 October 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.perthrunningfestival.com.au/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.

Does the Perth Running Festival Marathon course follow the Swan River?

Yes. A highlight of the Perth Running Festival Marathon is its route along the Swan River foreshore, offering runners stunning water views and a scenic out-and-back stretch through some of Perth's most picturesque parklands.

Why is October a good time to run the Perth Marathon?

October is Western Australia's spring, bringing mild temperatures typically between 12 °C and 22 °C, low humidity, and extended daylight — ideal conditions for a fast marathon effort after the cool winter training block.

Is the Perth Running Festival Marathon a good race for a personal best?

The mostly flat Swan River course with minimal elevation gain makes it one of Australia's most PB-friendly marathons, and the spring conditions often allow runners to target their goal times comfortably.

What other distances run alongside the Perth Marathon on festival day?

The Perth Running Festival is a multi-distance event, typically including a half marathon, 10 km, and fun run, creating a large festive atmosphere with thousands of participants across all race categories.

Is the Perth Running Festival Marathon sanctioned for Boston Qualifier times?

Yes. The Perth Running Festival Marathon is a certified road race and results submitted from it are accepted as Boston Qualifying times by the BAA, provided the certification is current at the time of your race.