Fall & Winter Marathons in the Northeast

Written by
Jackie Veling and Elizabeth Grimsley
Whether it's densely populated cities, plunging temperatures or diverse culture, the northeast is known for many things—including great marathons. These 10 hand-picked races will challenge you to run your best 26.2 yet.
Mad Marathon
July 9, 2017 — Waitsfield, Vt.
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The sixth annual race will take place in Mad River Valley, a particularly scenic area of central Vermont. It's a popular area for tourists who come from all over to experience great skiing, but the valley is also home to great races.

The course will take you through the surrounding rural community on dirt roads, with mountains in the background. You'll have a few challenging climbs as you run along the rolling farmlands, but you'll be rewarded with views of quaint villages, covered bridges, historic barns and, of course, those famous Vermont cows.
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Abebe Bikila Day International Peace Marathon
September 16, 2017 — Washington, D.C.
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Looking for a course that is not only flat and tree-lined but scenic to boot? If so, this marathon was made for you. With only about 32 meters of elevation gain over the entire 26.2 miles, a PR might be in your future.

But apart from the ideal conditions on race day, this marathon celebrates—and is named for—Ethiopian Abebe Bikila, the 1960 Olympic marathon champion who won the gold after racing the entire course barefoot—setting a world record in the process. Bikila returned four years later, became the first person to defend his marathon title and broke his own record once again. If that's not motivation while on the course, we don't know what is!
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Adirondack Marathon
September 24, 2017 — Schroon Lake, N.Y.
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The beauty of the Adirondacks is famous for a reason, and at this marathon, you can really soak it in. The course loops around Schroon Lake before heading into the Adirondack Forest Preserve for a nature-filled run through the woods.

For anyone hoping to enjoy an especially nice, easy run, make sure to arrive in time for the Early Bird Start—a non-competitive option for laid-back runners. You'll be excused from the six-hour time limit, and you'll still receive a recorded time and a finisher's medal.
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Atlantic City Marathon
October 22, 2017 — Atlantic City, N.J.
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Run your next 26.2 on the historic Atlantic City boardwalk.

This marathon features live entertainment along the course as you take in gorgeous beaches, illustrious casinos and the famous, six-story high Lucy the Elephant, constructed in 1881. The course is out and back, starting and finishing right on the boardwalk at Michigan Avenue, in front of Bally's Casino Resort.

Make sure to check out the Finisher's Village, which will include food specific to Atlantic City, like Harry's Clam Chowder, Formica Brother's Bread, water ice and more.
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Marathon on the Mountain
October 28, 2017 — Seven Springs, Pa.
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This race takes place atop the Laurel Highlands, which is made up of various mountains that represent some of the highest points in Pennsylvania.

Get ready for some challenging inclines as you run on country lanes and ski trails that eventually take you deep into the forest. The course starts and ends at the Seven Springs Mountain Resort, so we encourage you to book a longer stay so you can really enjoy the surrounding area.

All participants will receive a tech shirt and a finisher's medal upon completion.
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Indiana First Bank Veteran's Marathon
November 5, 2017 — Blairsville, Pa.
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This fifth annual Boston-qualifying race features an out-and-back course that is mostly flat. It's also one of the cheapest races on this list, making it quiet the bargain.

Note: There's a six-hour time limit to the course, but finisher awards are given to all participants.
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Gettysburg Battlefield Marathon
November 5, 2017 — Gettysburg, Pa.
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Calling all history buffs—this race is for you.

The second annual Gettysburg Marathon will continue to make history in a place already steeped in it. The race, which begins and ends at the Gettysburg National Military Park Visitors Center, will take runners past historic sites such as Pennsylvania Monument, Sachs Covered Bridge, Devil's Den and the Eternal Light Peace Memorial.

A pre-run spaghetti dinner will also be held the evening before the race. The price of this meal is included with your registration, so make sure to take advantage of it.
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NYCRUNS Brooklyn Marathon
November 19, 2017 — Brooklyn, N.Y.
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This marathon is on its sixth and has sold out every year prior, making it one of the most attractive options on this list. It was even named "Marathon of the Year" in 2012 by TRAVLETE.

It takes place in Brooklyn's Prospect Park, where you'll complete a number of course loops, passing two hydration stations a total of 16 times. Runners receive constant spectator support the whole way through, and a medal and long-sleeve technical shirt at the finish.
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Potomac River Run Marathon
October 28, 2017 — Carderock, Md.
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Soak up views of the Potomac as you log a sweet and steady 26.2. This event is a great option for first-time marathoners—the course is almost completely flat, shaded and has no road crossings (and the beautiful views of the river don't hurt either).

The race starts and finishes at the Carderock Recreation Center, taking runners on the historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath. Enjoy post-race doughnuts and pancakes after you pick up your finisher's medal and tech shirt.
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