Marathon Races in California
Browse 10 marathon trail running and hiking routes in California. Distance range: 25.5 mi to 27.0 mi. Elevation gain: 115 ft to 7,605 ft. Each route includes terrain analysis, elevation profiles, and pacing recommendations.
Key Takeaways
| Route Name | Location | Distance | Elevation Gain | Type | Race Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASICS Los Angeles Marathon 2026 | Los Angeles, California | 26.2 mi | 812 ft | race | Mar 8, 2026 |
| California International Marathon | Folsom, California | 26.3 mi | 115 ft | race | Dec 7, 2026 |
| Big Sur Marathon | Monterey County, California | 26.3 mi | 2,054 ft | race | Apr 26, 2026 |
| Bizz Johnson Trail (CA) | Lassen County, California | 25.5 mi | 346 ft | route | — |
| Pioneer National Recreation Trail (CA) | Nevada County, California | 25.9 mi | 1,648 ft | route | — |
| Diablo Regional Trail | Mount Diablo State Park, California | 26.1 mi | 5,172 ft | route | — |
| Hollywood Legacy (CA) | Los Angeles County, California | 26.2 mi | 427 ft | route | — |
| Triple Divide From Slab Lakes to Turner Lake Loop | Madera County, California | 26.4 mi | 5,935 ft | route | — |
| Tioga - Tenaya - Clouds Rest Picnic (Round Trip) | Tuolumne County, California | 26.4 mi | 3,504 ft | route | — |
| Half Dome - Glacier Point Loop (CA) | Mariposa County, California | 27.0 mi | 7,605 ft | route | — |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many trail races are in California?
There are 3 organized races and 7 self-supported routes available in California.
What is a Marathon race?
A Marathon race is approximately 25.5 to 27.3 miles in distance.
What is the average elevation gain in California?
The average elevation gain is 2,762 feet, with routes ranging from 115 to 7,605 feet.
Can these marathon routes in California be used for hiking?
Yes. 88% of these routes are on trail surfaces, making them suitable for both trail running and hiking. The terrain analysis and elevation profiles help hikers plan their adventures just as effectively as runners.
Are Marathon races beginner-friendly?
Marathon race difficulty varies widely. Use the elevation gain and terrain analysis to assess each route. Races with lower elevation gain relative to distance and higher runnable percentages tend to be more beginner-accessible.
Want filters, map view, and route intelligence?
Browse with Interactive Map →