Course Map
About this Race
The Rock 'n' Roll Nashville Marathon is a hilly, music-fueled race through Tennessee's country-music capital, with live bands lining a genuinely undulating course through the city and its surrounds. The constant rolling terrain combined with the warm, often humid spring staging makes it one of the tougher races in the series. It draws a big, spirited field drawn to the Music City atmosphere and the bands along the route. The hills and heat demand respect and conservative early pacing. It suits runners who want a festive, music-rich experience and are prepared for a challenging course over a personal best.
Course Insight
San Diego serves up coastal Southern California scenery on a rolling course in mild conditions, lively rather than dead flat. Pace the rises by effort and don't let the views and atmosphere pull you out too fast. Spring sun on exposed stretches is worth managing with fluids. The ocean backdrop is a constant, pleasant distraction. Run within yourself early and the rolling route stays an ally.
Difficulty Breakdown
Mostly due to significant climbing (276m), tough late hills.
Course Details
- Course type
- Out-And-Back
- Elevation gain
- 276m
- Elevation loss
- 343m
- Highest point
- 123m
- Lowest point
- 3m
- Net elevation
- -67m
- Start
- Sixth Ave & Quince St at Balboa Park
- Cutoff time
- 7h 0m
Race History
The San Diego Marathon is a coastal Southern California race that built its identity around the region's mild, sun-washed shoreline and famously temperate climate. Its scenic, gentle profile made it an easygoing seaside event rather than a record course. Over the years it drew a relaxed field to the picturesque coast. It remains a pleasant destination in one of the country's most agreeable climates.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- San Diego International (SAN), John Wayne (SNA)
- Best area to stay
- The Gaslamp Quarter for proximity to the route and full hotels, Little Italy for trendy central stays, and La Jolla on the coast for scenic options.
- Getting to the start
- The start is downtown or near Balboa Park; take the trolley or walk from downtown hotels to the start.