How 2026 Went
Race day was 04 October 2026.
Full results →Course Map
Route based on 2025 course — may differ slightly from this year.
About this Race
The Portland Marathon is a fairly flat tour of the Oregon city along the Willamette River, marked by a single notable bridge climb that breaks up an otherwise smooth, rhythm-friendly course. Held in October, it typically brings cool, often drizzly Pacific Northwest conditions that many racers find genuinely helpful for fast times. The scenery is green and river-framed rather than showy. It suits runners who don't mind a little rain and want a flat-leaning course with one memorable climb in a relaxed, low-key Pacific Northwest city.
Course Insight
Portland is a largely flat October marathon along the Willamette, with one notable bridge climb to break the rhythm and the chance of Pacific Northwest rain. Pace the bridge by effort and otherwise settle into an even cadence. Cool, damp conditions are common and actually favour racing. The river setting is scenic and calm. Run the early miles with discipline and the flat stretches reward a measured pace.
Difficulty Breakdown
Mostly due to significant climbing (290m), tough late hills.
Course Details
- Course type
- Loop
- Elevation gain
- 290m
- Elevation loss
- 294m
- Highest point
- 55m
- Lowest point
- 10m
- Net elevation
- -4m
- Start
- Tom McCall Waterfront Park
- Cutoff time
- 6h 33m
Race History
The Portland Marathon was first held in 1972, growing into a fairly flat, often drizzly tour of the Oregon city with a single bridge climb. After organizational changes in the late 2010s it continued under new management. Its scenic Pacific Northwest character endured across the decades. Held in autumn, it draws a field to the green, river-threaded city.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Portland International (PDX)
- Best area to stay
- The Pearl District for proximity to the route and trendy stays, the downtown waterfront for central options, and the Hawthorne area for hip, value digs.
- Getting to the start
- The start is downtown by Waterfront Park; take the MAX light rail or walk from downtown hotels to the start.