Course Map
Route based on 2024 course — may differ slightly from this year.
About this Race
The Maine Marathon is a rolling course out of Portland that traces the scenic shoreline of Casco Bay through coastal New England on undulating terrain. The hills make it more honest than a flat course, requiring measured pacing along the bay. Held in October, it offers crisp autumn conditions and the spectacular fall foliage of the Maine coast. The seaside scenery is the highlight rather than dense crowds. It suits runners who want a beautiful, cool-weather coastal race and don't mind the rolling terrain over a flat-out fast time.
Course Insight
Maine is a rolling October marathon along Casco Bay, scenic and undulating amid fall colour, with an out-and-back that lets you read the terrain twice. Pace the hills by effort and use the outbound leg to meter the return. Crisp coastal air suits fast running. The bay views are a constant lift. Run the rollers with restraint and the back half stays under your control.
Difficulty Breakdown
Mostly due to significant climbing (271m).
Course Details
- Course type
- Out-And-Back
- Elevation gain
- 271m
- Elevation loss
- 285m
- Highest point
- 52m
- Lowest point
- 6m
- Net elevation
- -14m
- Start
- Baxter Boulevard at Back Cove, Portland (between Forest Ave & Preble St)
- Cutoff time
- 6h 15m
Race History
The Maine Marathon was first held in 1992, a rolling coastal course out of Portland tracing the scenic shoreline of Casco Bay. Its undulating terrain and brilliant fall foliage gave it a quintessential New England character. From its founding it became the state's signature marathon. Held each October, it draws a field to the cool, scenic Maine coast.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Portland International Jetport (PWM), Boston Logan (BOS)
- Best area to stay
- The Old Port for proximity to the route and lively stays, downtown Portland for central options, and the East End for characterful, quieter digs.
- Getting to the start
- The start is downtown near Back Cove/the Eastern Prom; walk from Old Port hotels, as it's a compact central course.