Overview
The Rennsteiglauf Marathon draws approximately 1,500 finishers each May on a mountain road and trail in Neuhaus am Rennweg, Germany. The Rennsteig name carries enormous tradition in German endurance sport. The route passes forest ridgelines, classic Rennsteig segments, and long climbing sections through central Germany's highlands. Expect significant climbs on this hilly course.
Rennsteiglauf Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Rennsteiglauf Marathon 2027 race day
The next Rennsteiglauf Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 2 May 2027 with a 9:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 250 m of climbing on a hilly with notable climbs layout.
Rennsteiglauf Marathon course route
Starts and finishes on Thuringian Forest race grounds. The route passes forest ridgelines, classic Rennsteig segments, and long climbing sections through central Germany's highlands. Hilly with notable climbs. Moderate terrain throughout.
Rennsteiglauf Marathon elevation profile
The Rennsteiglauf Marathon course is hilly with notable climbs over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 250 metres of climbing and 200 metres of descent, with a net climb of 50 metres from start to finish.
Entry requirements
The Rennsteiglauf Marathon uses open online registration at rennsteiglauf.de with no ballot or qualifying time for the general field. Sign-up for the May race typically opens the previous year and places are allocated first-come, first-served. Charity bibs are available through partner organisations when general entry closes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Rennsteiglauf Marathon elevation profile?
- The Rennsteiglauf Marathon has 250 metres of total climbing and 200 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is hilly with notable climbs, with 50 metres of net climb from start to finish.
- How long is the Rennsteiglauf Marathon?
- The Rennsteiglauf Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Mountain road and trail starting and finishing on Thuringian Forest race grounds.
- What time does the Rennsteiglauf Marathon start?
- The 2027 Rennsteiglauf Marathon starts at 9:00 am local time on Sunday, 2 May 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.rennsteiglauf.de/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Where does the Rennsteiglauf Marathon start and finish?
- Starts and finishes on Thuringian Forest race grounds. Updated course maps are published at https://www.rennsteiglauf.de/ each year.
- When is the Rennsteiglauf Marathon and how do I register?
- Rennsteiglauf Marathon is typically held in May. Registration opens through https://www.rennsteiglauf.de/ and may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.
- Is the Rennsteiglauf Marathon course flat?
- The course includes hilly with notable climbs. Study the official course profile at https://www.rennsteiglauf.de/ before setting pace targets.
- What landmarks does the Rennsteiglauf Marathon pass?
- The route passes forest ridgelines, classic Rennsteig segments, and long climbing sections through central Germany's highlands.
- What weather should runners expect at Rennsteiglauf Marathon?
- Usually cool with forest air, variable cloud, and spring mountain conditions.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
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