Course Map
About this Race
The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon is a rolling, hilly course through the Texas capital, winding past the State Capitol and the city's lively neighborhoods on terrain that undulates throughout. The constant rises make it more demanding than a flat course, and the late-winter staging can turn unexpectedly warm in central Texas. Known for live music along the route, it draws a spirited field to one of the South's most characterful cities. The hills and potential heat reward conservative early pacing. It suits runners who want a vibrant, music-rich race and are ready for an honest, undulating course over a personal best.
Course Insight
Austin surprises people: for a big-city February race it's genuinely hilly, rolling relentlessly through the Texas terrain in conditions that can swing from cold to warm. Pace the climbs by effort and bank nothing on the descents you'll repay on the next rise. The variable weather is worth watching, since a warm day adds real tax. This is a strength course masquerading as a destination race. Run it conservatively and the rollers stay an ally rather than an ambush.
Difficulty Breakdown
Mostly due to significant climbing (319m), tough late hills.
Course Details
- Course type
- Point-To-Point
- Elevation gain
- 319m
- Elevation loss
- 304m
- Highest point
- 208m
- Lowest point
- 132m
- Net elevation
- +15m
- Start
- 2nd Street and Congress Avenue
- Cutoff time
- 7h 0m
Course Records
- Men's
- 2:13:18 — Joseph Whelan (USA), 2026
- Women's
- 2:33:28 — Kellyn Taylor (USA), 2026
Race History
The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon was first held in 1992, growing into a rolling, hilly course through the Texas capital known for its live music along the route. Its undulating terrain and the potential for late-winter warmth gave it a genuine challenge and a vibrant character. From its founding it became one of the South's more characterful marathons. Held in winter, it draws a spirited field to the music-rich city.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Austin–Bergstrom (AUS), San Antonio (SAT)
- Best area to stay
- Downtown for proximity to the route and full hotels, South Congress for hip, characterful stays, and the Domain for quieter modern options.
- Getting to the start
- The start is downtown near the Capitol on Congress Avenue; walk from downtown hotels, as the course centres on the city.