Marathon Focus
Rock n Roll San Jose Marathon

Rock n Roll San Jose Marathon

San Jose, California, United States

Overview

The Rock 'n' Roll San Jose Marathon attracts approximately 2,200 finishers each October through the capital of Silicon Valley. The course passes the SAP Center, Santana Row, and the Guadalupe River park with views of the Santa Cruz Mountains. October's mild Bay Area autumn and flat South Bay terrain make it Northern California's largest marathon.

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

Rock n Roll San Jose Marathon 2026 race day

The next Rock n Roll San Jose Marathon is scheduled for Saturday, 24 October 2026 with a 7:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 50 m of climbing on a very flat layout.

Rock n Roll San Jose Marathon course route

The Rock n Roll San Jose Marathon is an urban road that starts and finishes in downtown San Jose near the SAP Center. The loop passes Santana Row, the Guadalupe River trail, and the San Jose State University campus. The flat profile keeps rhythm steady throughout, with only minor bridge ramps or short rises interrupting otherwise even pacing. Spectators gather at the start-finish festival and at organised cheer zones through the city centre and along the main boulevards.

Rock n Roll San Jose Marathon elevation profile

The Rock n Roll San Jose Marathon course is very flat over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 50 metres of climbing and 50 metres of descent, with minimal net elevation change from start to finish.

Entry requirements

For the Rock n Roll San Jose Marathon, the race starts and finishes in downtown San Jose near the SAP Center. Course maps at https://www.runrocknroll.com/san-jose.

Rock n Roll San Jose Marathon course video

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

2023 Rock 'n' Roll San Jose Course Preview

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Rock n Roll San Jose Marathon elevation profile?
The Rock n Roll San Jose Marathon has 50 metres of total climbing and 50 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is very flat, with 0 metres of net change from start to finish.
How long is the Rock n Roll San Jose Marathon?
The Rock n Roll San Jose Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts and finishes in downtown San Jose near the SAP Center.
What time does the Rock n Roll San Jose Marathon start?
The 2026 Rock n Roll San Jose Marathon starts at 7:00 am local time on Saturday, 24 October 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.runrocknroll.com/san-jose confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Where does the Rock 'n' Roll San Jose Marathon start?
The race starts and finishes in downtown San Jose near the SAP Center. Course maps at https://www.runrocknroll.com/san-jose.
When is the Rock 'n' Roll San Jose Marathon?
The race is held in October, typically on the fourth Saturday.
Is the San Jose marathon flat?
Yes. The South Bay course through San Jose is flat, though the Santa Cruz Mountains are visible to the west.
What landmarks does the San Jose marathon pass?
The SAP Center, Santana Row shopping district, Guadalupe River park, and the downtown tech-corridor skyline define the Silicon Valley route.
What weather should I expect in San Jose in October?
October in San Jose is mild Bay Area autumn, often 14–22 °C (57–72 °F). Morning fog may linger in the valley.

Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.

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