Boston Marathon
The Boston Marathon, established in 1897, is the world's oldest annual marathon. Held on Patriots' Day, the third Monday in April, the race covers 26.2 miles from Hopkinton to Boston's Copley Square. Known for its challenging course, including the infamous "Heartbreak Hill," the event attracts approximately 30,000 participants and 500,000 spectators each year. Runners must meet strict qualifying times to enter, underscoring the race's esteemed status in the running community.
Elevation Details
- Total Elevation Gain:891
- Net Elevation Gain:-460
Notable Landmarks
- Hopkinton Start Line – The race begins in the small town of Hopkinton.
- Wellesley College Scream Tunnel – A loud and energetic section near the halfway point, where students cheer on runners.
- Heartbreak Hill – A steep incline near Mile 20 in Newton, known for challenging runners late in the race.
- Boylston Street Finish Line – The race ends in Boston’s Copley Square, a historic and emotional spot for participants.
Location Details
Other Race Distances
Boston Marathon Status
Estimated Hotel Cost
475 USD per night
Special Hotel Rates Available
View Special Hotel RatesRace Requirements
Eligibility
Qualifying time
Male:
18-34 3:00 | 35-39 3:05 | 40-44 3:10 | 45-49 3:20 | 50-54 3:25 | 55-59 3:35 | 60-64 3:50 | 65-69 4:05 | 70-74 4:20 | 75-79 4:35 | 80+ 4:50
Female:
18-34 3:30 | 35-39 3:35 | 40-44 3:40 | 45-49 3:50 | 50-54 3:55 | 55-59 4:05; 60-64 4:20 | 65-69 4:35 | 70-74 4:50 | 75-79 5:05 | 80+ 5:20
Tour operator provided entries
Required Documents
photo ID
Digital Number Pick-Up Pass
Complete medical and emergency contact information
Entry Methods
Online portal (qualifiers only)
Tour operators
Charity
The Boston Athletic Association is proud to offer you the option to protect your registration through its Registration Protection program. Athletes can elect to upgrade to the Registration Protection program at the point of registration.
This program authorizes you to get a refund of your race entry fees, but must be selected during the event registration process.
The B.A.A. maintains a no refund policy for those who do not purchase registration protection.
Running a qualified time in another race does not guarantee entry as spots are assigned in terms of demand therefore, actual qualification times needed are usually much faster. Think around 5-7 minutes faster than stated times.
Community
Stories, tips, and race-day snapshots from runners who have tackled this course.
Community Reviews
Learn from fellow runners and share insights that will help the next person toe the line.