Phoenix Marathon
Race snapshot
Race Day
Feels mild
Total elevation gain
Relatively flat course · Net elevation change −131 ft
Crowd Rating
Good crowd energy
The Lowdown
The Phoenix Marathon, organized by Brooksee, starts at the South Mountain Park Visitor Center and runs north through the length of the city. After the opening miles on Central Avenue, it follows the Salt River Shore pathway for about eleven miles, then climbs into downtown past the Arizona State Capitol, the ASU Downtown Phoenix campus and Hance Park. The finish is inside Steele Indian School Park. The course is USATF-certified, so it counts as a Boston Marathon qualifier. A half marathon, 10 Miler and Friday-evening 5K run the same weekend, and finishers of the Phoenix Marathon and the Mesa Marathon can earn the Desert Double medal.
Questions about the Phoenix Marathon 2026
When is the Phoenix Marathon 2026?
Saturday, December 12, 2026.
Where is the Phoenix Marathon?
Phoenix, AZ, United States.
What time does the Phoenix Marathon start?
The race starts at 7:00 AM, local time.
What is the Phoenix Marathon time limit?
6.5 hours.
How do I enter the Phoenix Marathon 2026?
Registration is open. Ways in: Online registration at phxmarathon.com/register; registration is limited.
How much does the Phoenix Marathon 2026 cost?
Marathon: $199. Half Marathon: $179. 10 Miler: $114. 5K: $74.
When and where is packet pickup for the Phoenix Marathon?
Dec 11, 2026: Expo open 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Friday 5K starts 7:30 PM.
What is the Phoenix Marathon elevation gain?
120 m (394 ft) of total elevation gain. Net elevation change: −40 m (131 ft). Relatively flat course.
What is the Phoenix Marathon course like?
It passes South Mountain Park Visitor Center, Salt River Shore pathway and Arizona State Capitol.
What is the weather like at the Phoenix Marathon?
The race-day average is 13 °C (55 °F). Feels mild.
Where are the Phoenix Marathon results?
The official 2025 results are on the organizer's site. Official results
Is the Phoenix Marathon a Boston qualifier?
Yes. This race is a certified Boston Marathon qualifying event.
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