Rock n Roll Arizona Marathon

PhoenixArizonaUnited States

Next race

Saturday, 16 January 2027

7:00 am start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Urban road

Elevation

Flat · 50 m gain

50 m climbing

Race profile

Overview

The Rock 'n' Roll Arizona Marathon draws approximately 3,500 finishers each January through the Phoenix-Scottsdale metropolitan area. The course passes Camelback Mountain views, Scottsdale's resort corridors, and Tempe Town Lake on flat desert-city roads with live music stages. January's perfect Arizona desert weather makes it one of the Rock 'n' Roll series' most popular winter events.

Rock n Roll Arizona Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.

Typical participants: Approximately 3,500 finishers

Weather: Cool to mild winter
11–14°C · humidity 40–70%
Marathon weather guide →

Course records: Men: 2:10:33 — Haron Toroitich (2004)Women: 2:30:39 — Teyba Naser (2010)

Course & terrain

Rock n Roll Arizona Marathon course

Course route details and elevation profile for race-week planning.

The Rock n Roll Arizona Marathon is an urban road that starts in Tempe and finishes in Scottsdale or Tempe Town Lake area. The loop passes Tempe Town Lake, Scottsdale Road, and the Salt River corridor with Camelback Mountain views. The flat profile keeps rhythm steady throughout, with only minor bridge ramps or short rises interrupting otherwise even pacing. Spectators line the lakeside promenades and the start-finish area, with the densest support where the course passes parks and scenic embankments.

Registration

Rock n Roll Arizona Marathon entry requirements

Rock 'n' Roll Arizona uses open registration at runrocknroll.com with no lottery or qualifying time. Entries for the January race remain available through tiered pricing periods and last-minute sign-up is often possible. Charity bibs are offered through official series partners.

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Rock n Roll Arizona Marathon a Boston Qualifier?: The Rock n Roll Arizona Marathon is a Boston Qualifier. The Rock n Roll Arizona Marathon holds a certified 42.195 km course that can be used for Boston Marathon qualifying times, subject to current Boston Athletic Association standards and the race's USATF (or equivalent) certification status in the registration year.
What is the Rock n Roll Arizona Marathon elevation profile?: The Rock n Roll Arizona Marathon has 50 metres of total climbing and 50 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is flat, with 0 metres of net change from start to finish.
How long is the Rock n Roll Arizona Marathon?: The Rock n Roll Arizona Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. From Tempe to Scottsdale or Tempe Town Lake area.
What time does the Rock n Roll Arizona Marathon start?: The 2027 Rock n Roll Arizona Marathon starts at 7:00 am local time on Saturday, 16 January 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Where does the Rock 'n' Roll Arizona Marathon start?: The race starts in Tempe and finishes in the Scottsdale/Tempe area. The desert course is mapped in pre-race materials.
When is the Rock 'n' Roll Arizona Marathon?: The race is held in January, typically on a Saturday. It is one of the Rock 'n' Roll series' flagship winter events.
Is the Arizona Rock 'n' Roll Marathon flat?: Yes. The Valley of the Sun course is flat desert terrain, ideal for fast times in January's cool mornings.
What landmarks does the Arizona marathon pass?: Tempe Town Lake, Scottsdale's resort district, and views of Camelback Mountain define the route through the Phoenix metro area.
What weather should I expect in Arizona in January?: January in the Phoenix area is ideal running weather, often 8–18 °C (46–64 °F) at the start. Sun protection remains important.

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

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