REVEL Reno Tahoe Marathon
The Lowdown
The REVEL Reno Tahoe Marathon is part of the REVEL Series of point-to-point downhills that have become a favorite among road runners seeking fast times and big scenery. Launched by the REVEL brand to showcase the Sierra Nevada and Lake Tahoe region, the Reno Tahoe edition brings together local and visiting runners for a destination-style race experience that mixes competitive racing with tourism. Over the years it has earned a reputation for well-organized logistics, high-energy aid stations, and a finish-line festival in Reno that highlights the city’s vibrant atmosphere. The course is a net-downhill, point-to-point route that delivers sweeping Sierra Nevada vistas and long-running views of mountains and high desert. Runners descend gradually from the higher-elevation Tahoe basin toward Reno, with stretches that feel fast and runnable and scenic passages that thread past pine forests, open ridgelines, and glimpses of mountains and water. The atmosphere on race day is festive and supportive — think destination expo, enthusiastic volunteers, live music at key points, and a lively finish in downtown Reno where spectators and fellow runners celebrate. The course is measured and certified (USATF/AIMS) and is recognized as a Boston Marathon qualifying course, making it popular with runners chasing fast times as well as those seeking a memorable mountain-to-city marathon experience.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Relatively flat course
Participants
Field Size
Medium-sized race
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Moderate spectator support
Largest field in event history as 2025 edition sees record finishes
May 18, 2025The 2025 REVEL Reno Tahoe Marathon recorded the largest finishers total in the race's history with 3,200 marathon finishers (up from ~2,800 in 2024), and overall event weekend participation exceeded 6,500. Organizers cited expanded wave starts and additional volunteer support that helped accommodate the increased field.
Route tweak announced for 2026 due to NDOT construction; minor 1-mile reroute on mid-course
Aug 1, 2025Race organizers confirmed a temporary mid-course reroute for the 2026 edition to avoid Nevada Department of Transportation construction on the usual descent; the change adds roughly 1.0 mile of rolling terrain and shifts the aid station placements from miles 12–15 to 13–16. Officials noted the course remains USATF-certified and said the change is expected to increase difficulty slightly on the second half.
This race qualifies for the Boston Marathon
Race Weekend
Other distances available
Notable Landmarks
Reno Arch
Iconic neon landmark over Virginia Street marking the heart of downtown Reno
Truckee River Walk
Scenic riverside path that runners follow through downtown with parks and pedestrian bridges
Wingfield Park & Pavilion
Riverfront park near the downtown casinos offering cheering crowds and views of the river
National Automobile Museum
Notable museum along the course near downtown showcasing classic cars
University of Nevada, Reno (UNR)
The university campus provides shaded stretches and spectator areas
Virginia Street Casino Row
Historic downtown stretch lined with casinos, shops and active race-day energy
Idlewild Park / Virginia Lake area
Green space and lakeside scenery on sections of the course
Reno, NV, United States
US
Based on nearby accommodations
The race offers a booking portal with partner hotel options
- Must be 18 years or older on race day
- Must be a registered participant for the 2026 REVEL Reno Tahoe Marathon
- Government-issued photo ID may be required for packet pickup
- Participants must provide emergency contact and relevant medical information at registration
- Medical clearance recommended for anyone with a pre-existing medical condition or recent illness
- All participants must comply with race rules, course marshals, and event staff directions
- No unauthorized pacing or assistance; only official aid stations and volunteers may provide support
- Photo ID (government-issued)
- Signed waiver/release of liability
- Emergency contact information
- Medical information (allergies/conditions/medications)
- Online Registration
- Charity Entry
- Tour Operator
- Bib Transfer
Cancellation & Refunds
Policy details
No refunds under any circumstances
Deferrals to the following year allowed until 30 days before the race for a $40 fee
Transfers to another registered runner allowed until 30 days before the race for a $35 administrative fee (both parties must complete the online transfer)
No refunds, transfers, or deferrals within 30 days of race day
The REVEL Reno Tahoe Marathon is a point-to-point net-downhill course starting near the Tahoe basin and finishing in Reno, offering sustained downhill running with an approximate net elevation loss of 1,800–2,500 feet and sweeping views of Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Nevada.
Finishers receive a custom finisher medal and technical race shirt, and the finish festival typically includes food, beverages and a beer garden along with recovery services like massage and medical tents.
Race weekend features include a race expo with packet pickup in Reno the day before, optional pre-race pasta dinner events hosted by local vendors, and a kids' fun run at the finish area.
Logistics tip: shuttle buses transport runners from Reno to the start early race morning (arrive early for parking), aid stations are located roughly every 1.5–2 miles with electrolyte and water options, and spectator viewing is best near the finish due to limited access along the downhill course.
Community
Stories, tips, and race-day snapshots from runners who have tackled this course.
Community Reviews
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