Course Map
About this Race
The M&T Bank Vermont City Marathon is a scenic loop through Burlington along the shores of Lake Champlain, starting and finishing at Waterfront Park with the Adirondack and Green Mountains framing the horizon on a clear day. The course rolls gently through the city's neighborhoods before the notorious Assault on Battery climb around mile 15 tests legs just as fatigue is setting in, and the late-May staging can turn warm and humid. It draws a spirited field to a beloved regional event with strong community support and lively neighborhood aid stations. The hills and potential heat reward measured pacing, especially through the mid-race climb. It suits runners who want a stunning lakeside course and don't mind the mid-race test and possible warmth over a flat-out fast time.
Course Insight
Vermont City is a late-May loop through Burlington starting and finishing at Waterfront Park on Lake Champlain, scenic and spirited with the course's defining test arriving around mile 15: the Assault on Battery Street climb, a steep pitch that hits right as early fatigue sets in. Pace the early rolling miles conservatively and save something for that climb rather than arriving at it depleted. Early-summer warmth is a real variable on a sunny day. The lake views and community vibe are a genuine lift throughout. Bank nothing on the descents, and treat mile 15 as the race's true test.
Difficulty Breakdown
Mostly due to significant climbing (273m), tough late hills.
Course Details
- Course type
- Loop
- Elevation gain
- 273m
- Elevation loss
- 268m
- Highest point
- 71m
- Lowest point
- 30m
- Net elevation
- +5m
- Start
- Waterfront Park, Lake Street, Burlington
- Cutoff time
- 6h 30m
Race History
The Vermont City Marathon was first held in 1989 in Burlington along the shores of Lake Champlain, framed by the Adirondack and Green Mountains. Its rolling course and the notorious Assault on Battery Street climb around mile 15 gave it a genuine challenge in a beautiful setting. Long sponsored by KeyBank, the race is now backed by title sponsor M&T Bank. From its founding it grew into a beloved New England event with strong community support. Held each May, it draws a spirited field to the lakeside city.
Plan Your Trip
Everything you need to know to get there, get settled, and get to the start line.
- Nearest airport(s)
- Burlington International (BTV)
- Best area to stay
- Downtown on Church Street for proximity to the waterfront route and lively stays, the waterfront for scenic hotels, and the South End for characterful options.
- Getting to the start
- The start and finish are at Waterfront Park on Lake Street; walk from downtown or waterfront hotels, as it's a compact course close to the city centre.