Experience the unique charm of the Deep South. Louisiana, a 42.195km flat journey
The Louisiana Marathon is famed as a fast, flat course that attracts runners seeking a personal best or a Boston Marathon qualifying time (BQ). Held every year in mid-January, it is a scenic 42.195km journey through the capital city of Baton Rouge, past the Mississippi River, historic neighborhoods, the LSU campus, and beautiful University Lakes.
The course is remarkably flat with minimal elevation change, making it a highly desirable race for optimizing performance. While the cheers may be less massive than in the largest cities, the warmth and enthusiastic support from the local community, often featuring Southern music and cuisine, provide a uniquely energizing and unforgettable experience.
The Louisiana Marathon: A 42.195km journey through the heart of the Deep South
The Louisiana Marathon is a fantastic opportunity to start the year strong on a fast course. Run alongside dedicated athletes from around the world through the charming streets of Baton Rouge, and let the culture and community support carry you to your goal time, whether it’s a new PR or a BQ.
Course Overview
Starting Point
The race begins in Downtown Baton Rouge, near the Mississippi River. Runners line up in the crisp January morning air, ready to tackle one of the fastest marathon courses in the country. The start is smooth and leads quickly into the city’s historic districts.
Sights along the way
The Louisiana Marathon course is celebrated for its flat terrain, efficiency, and cultural highlights.
・0-13 miles: The first half of the race is primarily flat and fast, running through the revitalized Downtown area and into charming historic neighborhoods. This section is perfect for finding your rhythm and banking time for a fast finish. The course is known for the strong community presence, where residents fill the streets with Southern hospitality and live music.
・14-23 miles: Runners venture through the heart of the city’s academic and scenic areas. This stretch takes you through the beautiful University Lakes, where the flat, tree-lined path offers a picturesque run, and past the iconic campus of Louisiana State University (LSU). Running through these areas, particularly past the historic Tiger Stadium, provides a motivating change of scenery.
・23 miles to the finish: The final miles return runners toward the State Capitol building and the finish line in the Downtown area. The course remains flat here, demanding a final sustained push rather than navigating challenging hills. Utilizing the flat surface for a strong finish is key.
Finish point
Finish near the Louisiana State Capitol in Downtown Baton Rouge! The culmination of a 42.195km effort on a BQ-friendly course, celebrated with local food, beer, and the warm welcome of the Louisiana community.
Elevation difference and climate
・Elevation difference: The course is known for being extremely flat. The total elevation gain is only about 373 feet (approx. 113m), with the same amount of cumulative elevation descent. The highest and lowest points are very close, eliminating major climbs and descents that challenge most urban marathons. This profile is ideal for achieving fast times.
・Weather: Held in mid-January, the climate in Baton Rouge often provides ideal “cool running weather.” Average temperatures typically range from 41°F to 52°F (5°C to 11°C) at race time, often cool at the start but warming slightly, making it favorable for performance.
Participants’ comments
・ “This is the perfect race to achieve a BQ. The course is genuinely fast and flat.”
・ “The local support and Southern hospitality were incredible. Felt like a true community event.”
・ “Running through the LSU campus and the lakes was beautiful and motivating.”
・ “I set a personal best by over five minutes, thanks to the course profile and the weather.”
・ “Great organization and a wonderful post-race party with amazing local food.”
・ “It’s the best flat marathon I’ve ever run. Highly recommend for serious runners.”
・ “The atmosphere was focused yet friendly. Definitely felt the support of Louisiana.”
Strategy
The key to conquering The Louisiana Marathon is to embrace the course’s flatness. Maintain an even, strong pace throughout the first half, using the cool January air to your advantage. Unlike courses with significant hills, the challenge here is mental—staying focused on pace through the scenic lakes and campus areas. Save enough energy for the final few miles downtown, utilizing the lack of major late-race hills to unleash a sustained, strong finish and secure that personal best or BQ.
The Louisiana Marathon is your 42.195km opportunity to set a new standard. Run a fast course supported by the friendly community of Baton Rouge, and achieve your goals in the beautiful setting of the Deep South.
2025 Louisiana Marathon Summary
・Date and time: January 19, 2025
・Number of finishers: 1,224 (Total Marathon Finishers)
・Average time: –
MEN
1: Jacob Plocher: 2:28:23
2: John Barham: 2:30:25
3: Colin McCatharn: 2:30:48
4: Caleb Bendewald: 2:33:14
5: Rob Jenson: 2:34:16
6: Blaine Sullivan: 2:37:53
7: Patrick Aucoin: 2:38:43
8: Matt Lissak: 2:39:06
9: Eric London: 2:40:38
10: Gael Cruanes: 2:41:59
WOMEN
1: Caroline Mahoney: 2:53:49
2: Jessalyn Sadler: 2:57:06
3: Megan Kahn: 2:57:48
4: Marta Pascoa: 2:59:58
5: April Mbida: 3:04:27
6: Grace Thacker: 3:05:07
7: Cortney Haser: 3:06:54
8: Anna Moore: 3:11:08
9: Hannah Michael: 3:12:15
10: Katie Miller: 3:17:21
2026 Louisiana Marathon
Calling all runners out there, this 42.195km race is a thrilling experience for you. Join fellow runners from around the world as you run through the fast, flat streets of Baton Rouge, breaking your personal best and experiencing something unforgettable.
・Location: Downtown Baton Rouge
・Date and time: January 18, 2026
・Start time: 7:00am
Baton Rouge: A capital city rich in history and culture
Baton Rouge, the capital of Louisiana, is a city where history and modern Southern culture converge, offering a distinctive charm shaped by its location on the Mississippi River. The city boasts a rich political heritage, epitomized by the magnificent Old and New State Capitol buildings, which stand as architectural landmarks. While its energy is different from major metropolises, Baton Rouge offers a lively, community-focused atmosphere, particularly around Louisiana State University (LSU), where college sports and academic vitality infuse the local scene.
The city’s culinary landscape is a highlight, deeply rooted in the unique Creole and Cajun traditions of South Louisiana. Visitors can indulge in authentic gumbo, crawfish étouffée, and po’boys at local eateries. The cultural tapestry is further woven by its numerous museums, including the LSU Museum of Art and the Louisiana Art & Science Museum, and historical sites that tell the story of the region’s complex past. Crossing the Mississippi River or strolling through the tree-lined historic neighborhoods reveals the tranquil beauty that complements the city’s urban core. Baton Rouge is a place where every corner offers a taste of authentic Louisiana life and culture.
