Downhill marathons are a unique and challenging experience for runners, offering a blend of speed and stunning landscapes. These races often provide a significant net elevation loss, making them popular for runners seeking personal records or Boston Marathon qualifying times. Here are the top 10 marathons in the United States with the most elevation loss:
Net Elevation Loss: 5,244 feet
Elevation Gain: 221 feet
Start Line Elevation: 9,625 feet
Finishers: 1,572
Boston Qualifying % 21%
Revel Big Cottonwood is renowned for its breathtaking course through Big Cottonwood Canyon in Utah. The race offers a mix of challenging elevation drops and scenic beauty, making it a favorite among marathoners looking to qualify for Boston.
Net Elevation Loss: 5,081 feet
Elevation Gain: 332 feet
Start Line Elevation: 6,630 feet
Finishers: 1,847
Boston Qualifying % 41%
Set in Southern California, the Revel Big Bear Marathon descends from the San Bernardino Mountains, offering runners a chance to experience a significant downhill journey with minimal elevation gain.
Net Elevation Loss: 5,078 feet
Elevation Gain: 169 feet
Start Line Elevation: 7,587 feet
Finishers: 1,704
Boston Qualifying % 41%
This Nevada-based Revel marathon offers a picturesque route through the Spring Mountains, providing a significant net descent. It’s a popular choice for runners aiming to achieve a Boston qualifying time due to location and very fast course.
Net Elevation Loss: 4,571 feet
Elevation Gain: 780 feet
Start Line Elevation: 9,264 feet
Finishers: 210
Boston Qualifying % 12%
The Mt. Nebo Marathon, set in Utah, is known for its steep descent and spectacular views. The course's elevation loss and sections with elevation gain offers a challenging, but still fast racing experience.
Net Elevation Loss: 3,794 feet
Elevation Gain: 58 feet
Start Line Elevation: 8,732 feet
Finishers: 241
Boston Qualifying % 21%
The Huntsville Marathon returns after two years off. The race takes place in Utah and features a scenic descent through the Wasatch Mountains, making it an excellent race for those seeking fast times.
Net Elevation Loss: 3,790 feet
Elevation Gain: 73 feet
Start Line Elevation: 4,034 feet
Finishers: 90
Boston Qualifying % 49%
Held on the Big Island of Hawaii, this marathon offers a unique course with a relatively low starting elevation for a significant downhill marathon, providing runners with stunning ocean views and a fast track. The tropical climate and lush landscapes add to the race's unique charm.
Net Elevation Loss: 3,157 feet
Elevation Gain: 215 feet
Start Line Elevation: 7,429 feet
Finishers: 86
Boston Qualifying % 34%
Utah’s oldest marathon, the Deseret News Marathon features a historic route that begins in the Wasatch Mountains and descends into Salt Lake City. The race is celebrated for its patriotic atmosphere, coinciding with Utah’s Pioneer Day.
Net Elevation Loss: 2,794 feet
Elevation Gain: 630 feet
Start Line Elevation: 6,618 feet
Finishers: 381
Boston Qualifying % 9%
This marathon, set in the beautiful Black Hills region of South Dakota, offers runners a unique experience with a scenic and downhill course that passes through lush forests and open plains. The small-town charm and stunning backdrop make it a hidden gem among marathons.
Net Elevation Loss: 2,557 feet
Elevation Gain: 500 feet
Start Line Elevation: 5,257 feet
Finishers: 3,815
Boston Qualifying % 14%
One of the most popular marathons in the United States, the St. George Marathon is known for its scenic course through southwestern Utah. The race's elevation loss and stunning red rock landscapes make it a favorite for runners aiming for fast times. The event's organization and community support are highly praised, making it a must-run for marathoners.
Net Elevation Loss: 2,357 feet
Elevation Gain: 337 feet
Start Line Elevation: 2,823 feet
Finishers: 1,683
Boston Qualifying % 26%
The fourth Revel marathon, and the only one on our list in the eastern U.S., the Revel White Mountains Marathon rounds out our top 10. This New Hampshire gives marathoners the unique experienceof running down the famous Kancamagus Highway. This course features breathtaking views of White Mountain National Forest, the Swift River, as well as some historic sights along the way.
Downhill marathons offer runners a great opportunity to achieve personal bests and enjoy stunning natural landscapes. Whether you're aiming for a Boston qualifying time or simply want to experience a beautiful and fast marathon, these top 10 downhill marathons offer some of the best courses to achieve your goals.