Maine Marathon
The Lowdown
The Maine Marathon has grown into one of New England’s most beloved fall road races, tracing its roots to community-focused events that celebrate the state’s rugged coastline and small-town charm. Held in early October to take full advantage of peak foliage, the race has become a staple for regional runners seeking a scenic, fast autumn marathon with strong local support. Over the years it has attracted a mix of competitive athletes chasing Boston qualifying times and recreational runners drawn by the friendly atmosphere and classic New England hospitality. The course showcases Maine’s coastal beauty and historic towns, winding past rocky shorelines, lighthouse views, and tree-lined streets that blaze with fall color. Runners can expect a mix of gently rolling hills and long, runnable flats along scenic backroads and waterfront sections, with highlights including views of Casco Bay and stretches through charming village centers where volunteers and spectators create a lively, encouraging atmosphere. The event emphasizes a comfortable runner experience with well-spaced aid stations, experienced pace teams, clear course markings, and a festive post-race area featuring local food, craft vendors, and music. The course is USATF-certified and the event is sanctioned to allow Boston Marathon qualifying performances.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
Intimate field
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Good crowd energy
This race qualifies for the Boston Marathon
Race Weekend
Other distances available
Notable Landmarks
Portland Head Light
Iconic 18th-century lighthouse located in Fort Williams Park, offering coastal views where runners pass nearby
Old Port
Portland's historic waterfront district with cobblestone streets and views of working harbors
Eastern Promenade
Scenic seaside park and trail along Casco Bay that provides panoramic ocean vistas during the race
Casco Bay Views
Continuous ocean and island sightlines across Casco Bay along stretches of the course
Bug Light Park (Spring Point Ledge Light)
Small lighthouse and park on South Portland's waterfront with views of the Fore River
Cape Elizabeth Coastal Roads
Picturesque seaside roads through residential and park areas near Cape Elizabeth, known for rocky shorelines and lighthouses
Willard Beach and South Portland Shoreline
Sandy beach and coastal promenade offering a seaside backdrop in the southern sections of the course
Portland, ME, United States
US
Based on nearby accommodations
- Must be 18 years or older on race day
- Must complete online registration and pay applicable entry fee by the posted deadline
- Agree to and sign the race waiver and release of liability
- Provide emergency contact and any relevant medical information during registration
- Able to complete the full marathon within the published course cutoff time (6 hours 30 minutes)
- Follow race rules and directions from race officials and medical personnel
- No qualifying time required
- Photo ID (driver's license or passport)
- Signed liability/assumption of risk waiver (electronic or printed)
- Proof of age for age-group verification (birth certificate, driver's license, or passport)
- Online Registration
- Charity Entry
- Tour Operator
- Virtual Entry
- Race Week In-Person Registration
Cancellation & Refunds
Policy details
No refunds for registration cancellations
Bib transfers to another runner allowed until 7 days before race (processing fee may apply)
Deferral to the 2027 Maine Marathon available for a $35 fee if requested by 14 days before the race
If the event is canceled by organizers for any reason, registrants will be offered a full refund or deferral to the next year
The course is a scenic point-to-point/loop combo through Portland and the Casco Bay coastline, passing historic Old Port, the Eastern Promenade, and several waterfront viewpoints.
All finishers receive a commemorative finisher medal and a technical long-sleeve race shirt, with post-race food, beverages, and a beer garden in the finish area.
There is a race weekend expo with bib pickup and local vendors, a Saturday pasta dinner available for purchase, and a kids' fun run on race weekend.
Aid stations are approximately every 1.5–2.5 miles with water, electrolyte drink and sponge stations; expect some rolling coastal hills—plan for variable wind and bring layers for early morning temps.
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.