Boston Marathon

Next Race

April 20, 2026

15

days to go

The Boston Marathon is the world's oldest annual marathon and one of the six World Marathon Majors. Run every Patriots' Day since 1897, the point-to-point course from Hopkinton to Boylston Street is legendary for its challenging Newton Hills and iconic finish.

Abbott World Marathon MajorWA Platinum Label

Est.

1897

Distance

42.2km / 26.2mi

Course

Point-to-point

Surface

Road

Elev. Gain

143m

Elev. Loss

264m

Field Size

~30,000

When

April

Time Limit

6h

THE COURSE

Gain

+143m

Loss

-264m

MI 0

KM 0

Hopkinton Start

The race begins in the rural town of Hopkinton at the highest point of the course (490ft). Runners descend through the first several miles, making it tempting to go out too fast.

ELEV: 490ft

MI 12

KM 19.3

Wellesley Scream Tunnel

At the halfway point, runners pass Wellesley College where students create a deafening wall of sound known as the Scream Tunnel — a massive morale boost.

ELEV: 200ft

MI 16

KM 25.7

Newton Hills

The legendary Newton Hills begin around mile 16. Four hills over 5 miles test runners who went out too fast in the downhill opening. This is where the race is truly won or lost.

ELEV: 160ft

MI 20.5

KM 33

Heartbreak Hill

The most iconic climb in marathon running. The final Newton Hill at mile 20.5 is not the steepest, but after 20 miles of racing, it breaks the unprepared. Named after the 1936 race.

ELEV: 260ft

MI 26.2

KM 42.195

Boylston Street Finish

The final stretch down Boylston Street is one of the most emotional finishes in all of sports. Crowds line both sides as runners complete the world's oldest annual marathon.

ELEV: 140ft