LITTLE ROCK MARATHON
The Lowdown
The Little Rock Marathon, first run in 2003, has grown into Arkansas’s premier spring distance event and a cherished tradition for regional and national runners. Held each March, the race celebrates Little Rock’s riverfront and historic neighborhoods and is known for its friendly, community-driven atmosphere. The marathon is a USATF-certified course and a Boston Marathon qualifier, attracting a mix of competitive athletes chasing qualifying times and recreational runners out for the spectacle and scenery. The course showcases Little Rock’s best landmarks, winding through downtown, along the Arkansas River Trail, past the William J. Clinton Presidential Center and Museum, and across the iconic Big Dam Bridge — the world’s longest pedestrian/bicycle bridge — before looping through scenic parks and residential streets. Runners experience rolling but runnable terrain, wide riverfront paths, and frequent shade in later miles, with several memorable river views that make the effort feel rewarding. Race day is festive and supportive, with enthusiastic local crowds, live music at multiple points, aid stations staffed by community volunteers, and family-friendly activities at the finish festival. Whether you’re chasing a PR, a Boston-qualifying time, or a first marathon finish, the Little Rock Marathon offers excellent organization, strong spectator support, and a capital-city backdrop that leaves many runners planning a return.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
Medium-sized race
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Moderate spectator support
Runner's World Names Little Rock Marathon a Bucket List Race for First-Timers
Jan 1, 2016In January 2016, Runner's World named the Little Rock Marathon as a 'Bucket List Race: 10 Great Marathons for First-Timers'. The race also ranked #5 on American Town Media's 'The Dream 26: The Best and Most Unique Marathons In America' list, recognizing its beginner-friendly 8-hour time limit and supportive atmosphere.
World's Largest Finisher's Medal Continues to Grow Each Year
Mar 1, 2015The Little Rock Marathon is famous for having the world's largest finisher's medal according to Runner's World. The 2015 marathon medal measured 8½ x 8¼ inches and weighed just over 3 pounds, with race organizers committed to making the medals slightly bigger each year.
2025 Marathon Draws Over 9,700 Participants with Mardi Gras Theme
Mar 2, 2025The 2025 Little Rock Marathon weekend attracted over 9,700 participants across all events. Aaron Soltmann of Little Rock won the men's marathon, while Stefanie Rodell of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina took the women's title. The race featured a festive Mardi Gras theme with runners sporting costumes and party beads.
Boston Qualifier
This race is a certified Boston Marathon qualifying event. Achieve your qualifying standard here on a verified course.
Little Rock River Market
Downtown riverfront area with shops and the starting/finish vicinity along the Arkansas River
Arkansas River Trail
Scenic multi-use trail along the river that the course follows for several miles
Clinton Presidential Center
Iconic museum and park named for President Bill Clinton, visible along the downtown waterfront section
Big Dam Bridge
The world's longest pedestrian and bicycle bridge, a highlight crossing with river views
Old State House Museum
Historic capitol building and museum near the downtown course
North Little Rock / Junction Bridge
Converted railroad-to-pedestrian bridge linking Little Rock and North Little Rock with skyline views
Arkansas State Capitol
The gold-domed state capitol building near the marathon route in central Little Rock
Other distances available during the event weekend:
Little Rock, AR, United States
US
Average rate for 3-star accommodations near the start line
Official Hotel Partner PortalVerified
This race offers exclusive rates and guaranteed entry packages through their official travel partner. Booking through the portal is recommended.
Eligibility
- Must be at least 16 years old to register for the marathon (participants under 18 require parent/guardian signature on waiver)
- All entrants must sign the official race waiver and medical release during registration
- Participants should be in adequate health and it is recommended to obtain medical clearance prior to racing
- There is a course time limit of 6 hours 30 minutes; runners not maintaining required pace may be removed from the course
- Proof of age may be requested at packet pickup or on race day
- Wheelchair and handcycle athletes may enter but must register in the appropriate division and follow race organizer rules
- All entrants must comply with event policies (aid station rules, course boundaries, and local law enforcement directions)
- No unofficial pacing teams or support vehicles allowed on course
Required Documents
- Signed race waiver / liability release (online or at packet pickup)
- Photo ID for packet pickup (government-issued)
- Emergency contact name and phone / medical information
- Proof of age (government ID) if entering age-group category or required for verification
- Parental/guardian consent for participants under 18
Entry Methods
- Online Registration
- Charity Entry
- Tour Operator
- Relay/Team Entry
Cancellation & Refund Policy
No refunds under any circumstances
Deferral to the following year's race allowed until 30 days before race for a $25 administrative fee
Bib transfers to another registered runner allowed until 7 days before race with $10 processing fee and completed transfer form
Race may offer a virtual race option; transfers to virtual must be requested at least 7 days before race
The Little Rock Marathon is a USATF-certified Boston Marathon qualifier, so many runners use it to attempt Boston qualifying times.
Race weekend includes multiple events (marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K and kids' events), an official race expo with packet pickup, and a Saturday pasta dinner for participants.
Finishers receive a custom finisher medal and a technical race shirt, and the event uses chip timing with live results and overall and age-group awards.
Aid stations with water, electrolyte drink and fuel are located roughly every 1.5–2 miles, and downtown finish-area parking is limited so organizers recommend early arrival or using designated shuttle lots.
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.