Sugarloaf Marathon
The Lowdown
The Sugarloaf Marathon is a net-downhill, USATF-certified Boston Marathon qualifier held each May in Maine's Carrabassett Valley, at the base of Sugarloaf Mountain. The course starts in the town of Eustis and finishes in Kingfield, following scenic Route 27 alongside the Bigelow Mountain range and the Carrabassett River. After a flatter opening five miles and a rolling middle section, the final 16 miles drop steadily downhill, making Sugarloaf one of the fastest marathon courses in the Northeast and a popular BQ target for New England runners. A companion 15K starts alongside the marathon. Capped at roughly 1,500 combined entrants across both races, the event has run annually since the mid-1980s, with the 2026 edition marking its 42nd running. Registration for the next edition opens in 2027.
Race Day
Weather Forecast
Elevation
Terrain Profile
Moderate rolling hills
Participants
Field Size
Medium-sized race
Crowd Rating
Spectator Support
Moderate spectator support
Boston Qualifier
This race is a certified Boston Marathon qualifying event. Achieve your qualifying standard here on a verified course.
Sugarloaf Mountain
Bigelow Mountain Range
Carrabassett River
Route 27
Sugarloaf Mountain Resort area, from Eustis to Kingfield, Maine
US
Average rate for 3-star accommodations near the start line
Eligibility
- Open to all ages; course is USATF certified and meets Boston Marathon qualifying standards
Entry Methods
- Online registration via RunSignUp
Cancellation & Refund Policy
No refunds or deferrals permitted, per the 2026 edition policy
42nd annual running in 2026
A companion 15K race starts alongside the marathon
Field limited to roughly 1,500 combined marathon and 15K entrants
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Community
Stories, tips, and race-day snapshots from runners who have tackled this course.
Community Reviews
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