Top 50 Marathons to Do Across America

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FIRST LIGHT MARATHON

Mobile, Alabama

Get a taste of southern hospitality as you run through neighborhoods lined with gothic estates. The hand-painted, wooden finishers' medal serves as a homey memento of this mid-winter race. firstlightmarathon.com

PRINCE OF WALES ISLAND MARATHON

Craig, Alaska

Run across the third-largest island in the United States as elk, deer and bears cross your path. This marathon showcases Alaska's lush beauty at the peak of salmon season. powmarathon.org

LOST DUTCHMAN MARATHON

Apache Junction, Arizona

Start in the dark surrounded by flaming campfires, then watch the sun rise over desert mountains. Post-race breakfast burritos round out your southwestern experience. lostdutchmanmarathon.org

LITTLE ROCK MARATHON

Little Rock, Arkansas

The rolling hills in Little Rock are tough but the end of the race offers wonderful rewards: a super-sized medal and an all-you-can-eat barbecue feast. littlerockmarathon.com

BIG SUR INTERNATIONAL MARATHON

Carmel, California 

Big Sur has been called both one of the most difficult and one of the most beautiful races in the world. Run along the Monterey coastline and be rewarded by the stunning views and fresh strawberries at the aid stations. bsim.org

AMERICAN DISCOVERY TRAIL MARATHON

Colorado Springs, Colorado

There's no better place to try a trail marathon than in the heart of hik?ing country. You'll be surrounded by snowcapped peaks as you race in high altitude on a rolling, crushed-gravel path. adtmarathon.com

HARTFORD MARATHON

Hartford, Connecticut

Run through red and orange foliage at a marathon that's "green" at heart. Innovative water bubblers and bio?degradable cups help to preserve the Connecticut River course. hartfordmarathon.com

REHOBOTH BEACH MARATHON

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Discover the Delaware shore with this charming, small-town marathon. After you race along the beach, you'll be greeted by a heated tent filled with free pancakes and local microbrews. rbmarathon.com