Overview
The Victoria Marathon attracts approximately 3,500 finishers each October on Vancouver Island's scenic capital course. Runners pass the Inner Harbour, Beacon Hill Park, and the Dallas Road waterfront with views of the Olympic Mountains across the Strait of Juan de Fuca. October's mild island autumn and rolling coastal terrain make it one of Canada's most charming marathons.
Victoria Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Victoria Marathon 2026 race day
The next Victoria Marathon is scheduled for Sunday, 11 October 2026 with a 7:45 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 150 m of climbing on a rolling with moderate climbs layout.
Victoria Marathon course route
The Victoria Marathon is a scenic coastal road that starts and finishes at the BC Parliament Buildings on the Inner Harbour. The loop passes Beacon Hill Park, the Dallas Road waterfront, and the Oak Bay neighbourhood. Flatter corridors and river valleys offer the easiest miles, while the moderate climbs through hills, bridges, or bluffs are the tougher sections once fatigue builds. Spectators gather along the waterfront, at the start-finish festival, and at organised cheer stations on the most scenic coastal stretches.
Victoria Marathon elevation profile
The Victoria Marathon course is rolling with moderate climbs over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 150 metres of climbing and 140 metres of descent, with a net climb of 10 metres from start to finish.
Victoria Marathon course video
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
Victoria Marathon Plan Overview
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Victoria Marathon elevation profile?
- The Victoria Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling with moderate climbs, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
- How long is the Victoria Marathon?
- The Victoria Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Coastal course starting and finishing at the BC Parliament Buildings on the Inner Harbour.
- What time does the Victoria Marathon start?
- The 2026 Victoria Marathon starts at 7:45 am local time on Sunday, 11 October 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.runvictoriamarathon.com/ confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Where does the Victoria Marathon start and finish?
- The race starts and finishes at the BC Parliament Buildings on Victoria's Inner Harbour — a stunning heritage backdrop.
- When is the Victoria Marathon?
- The Victoria Marathon is held on the second Sunday of October during Canadian Thanksgiving weekend. Registration is at https://www.runvictoriamarathon.com/.
- Does the Victoria Marathon pass Beacon Hill Park?
- Yes. Beacon Hill Park's gardens and coastal viewpoints are a highlight, with rolling terrain through the park's headland sections.
- Is the Victoria Marathon flat?
- No. The Dallas Road waterfront and Beacon Hill sections include rolling climbs. It is scenic rather than fast.
- What weather should I expect in Victoria in October?
- October in Victoria is mild autumn weather, often 8–14 °C (46–57 °F) with a chance of rain. The island climate is gentler than mainland British Columbia.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.