13. Grandma’s Marathon Duluth
On the shores of Lake Michigan, with fresh sea air and a relaxed atmosphere, the Grandma’s Marathon takes place. Family-friendly, fast, and beautiful – ideal for personal bests and vacation vibes. Duluth welcomes runners with a mini festival, bands along the route, and helpful spectators. The course is flat and initially runs along the water before passing through charming neighborhoods. After the finish line, there’s homemade pie (yes, Grandma’s pie) – what more could your heart want?
Optionally, you can also start in the Garry Bjorklund Half Marathon.
Date: June
All information about Grandma's Marathon Duluth
14. Mount Marathon Race Alaska
The oldest mountain running event in America (1915) and a true natural wonder: The Mount Marathon Race starts in the coastal town of Seward and climbs to 3,022 feet – up and down in just a few kilometers! The course is brutally steep, technically challenging, and extremely spectacular.
The rush of participants to the summit, the crowds on the slopes, and the scenery – together they create a unique spectacle. Whether pro or mountain fan – those who race here experience Alaska’s wild side up close.
Date: July 4
All information about the Mount Marathon Race
15. Kaua‘i Marathon & Half Marathon
Tropical vibes in Hawaii? Absolutely – you’ll get them at the Kaua‘i Marathon & Half Marathon. Palms, volcanic rock, and ocean views accompany you from the start, and the mild climate makes running feel like a stroll – with lots to see and miles to cover. Handmade water stations, lei flowers, local sounds – this is Hawaii in its purest form.
The run is friendly, well-organized, and beautiful – perfect for a sporty indulgence.
Date: August / September
All information about the Kauai Marathon & Half Marathon
16. Mammoth Trail Fest
Trail festival in the Eastern Sierra: The Mammoth Trail Fest features races from 5K to 32 miles – technical, scenically stunning, and within a connecting community. Runners meet at the campsite, in workshops, and around the evening campfire. The trails lead through alpine forests and past breathtaking panoramas.
Perfect for beginners and ultra freaks alike – and what stays with you is the sound of footsteps on forest paths and the pure joy of nature.
Date: September
All information about the Mammoth Trail Fest
17. Pikes Peak Marathon + Ascent
A marathon that ranges from 1,860 to 4,302 meters in elevation – that's the Pikes Peak Marathon & Ascent. The Ascent is a climb, while the marathon includes both uphill and downhill – a true heart-racing run. The trails are rocky, exposed, and breathtaking, and the panorama is an epic reward overlooking Colorado.
This race is hardcore, but also magical – reaching the top isn’t just about finishing a course, it’s about living an experience.
Date: September
All information about the Pikes Peak Marathon + Ascent
18. Chicago Marathon
Big city, big run: The Chicago Marathon is one of the World Marathon Majors – and you can feel it. 26.2 miles through streets full of cheers, skyscrapers, and cultural diversity. The course is lightning fast and ideal for those chasing personal bests, but also perfect for fun runners, thanks to the electric atmosphere. Musicians, drummers, and thousands of spectators carry you to the finish, where you'll stumble across with a medal and tears of joy. Chicago rocks!
Date: October
All information about the Chicago Marathon
19. Kodiak Ultra Marathon
The Kodiak Ultra Marathon offers rough, wet terrain, wilderness, and absolute silence – a stage for extreme endurance. In this 100-mile trail race, runners tackle more than 5,000 meters of elevation on spectacular trails. If you're looking for mystical wilderness beyond the everyday, this is your dream race.
Alternatively, you can choose from 100 km, 50 km, 21 km, and 10 km distances.
Date: October
All information about the Kodiak Ultra Marathon
20. NYRR Staten Island Half
A true New York community vibe with views of the Hudson and the Statue of Liberty: The NYRR Staten Island Half combines skyline feeling, boardwalks, and harbor atmosphere. The course crosses the famous Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge – a highlight with impressive views. Then it continues through quiet residential areas and parks. The vibe is typical NYC: warm, loud, urban. Perfect for anyone who wants to combine the city and race atmosphere.
Date: October
All information about the NYRR Staten Island Half
21. New York City Marathon
The king of the majors: The New York City Marathon runs through all five boroughs – from Staten Island through Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx to the big Manhattan finale. More than 50,000 runners, six-digit spectator numbers, and nonstop atmosphere – this is pure emotion. Past street cafés, churches, bridges, and neighborhoods – every mile tells its story.
A race that changes your life. The vibe, motivation, and pressure are all so close – that’s what makes it unforgettable.
Date: November
All information about the New York City Marathon
22. Monterey Bay Half Marathon
This route in the heart of California is a coastal dream: The Monterey Bay Half Marathon runs along the Pacific, through lagoons, past surfers and large bays. The course is flat, fast, and a pleasure run – with great weather, friendly people, and Californian charm. Ideal for personal bests or simply to leave everyday life behind and let your soul unwind to the sound of the sea.
Over 5,000 runners participate every year, typically on the second weekend of November.
Date: November
All information about the Monterey Bay Half Marathon
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