Running through the Steel City: A 42.195km Journey Woven with History and Nature
The Pittsburgh Marathon is an urban marathon where history and modern charm merge. Held annually in early May, it is a spectacular 42.195km journey through the diverse neighborhoods of this city located at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.
The start from the confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers, known as the “Three Rivers,” is symbolic, and the scenery of historic bridges and beautiful parks is captivating. The continuous cheers from enthusiastic spectators along the route powerfully support the runners.
An unforgettable feeling and sense of accomplishment awaits, as if the whole city is united in supporting you.
Pittsburgh Marathon: A 42.195km Journey through History and Nature
The Pittsburgh Marathon is more than just a race. It’s an unforgettable adventure through Pittsburgh’s vibrant neighborhoods and historic landmarks. In the Steel City, push your limits and write your story with runners from all over the world.
Course Overview
Starting Point
The inspiring journey begins near the intersection of Liberty Avenue and Seventh Avenue in the heart of Downtown. Surrounded by skyscrapers, the starting line greets runners with Pittsburgh’s modern skyline, heightening anticipation for the race. The first few miles are relatively flat, allowing runners to start with the city’s energy.
Sights along the way
The Pittsburgh Marathon course will captivate runners with its diverse scenery and enthusiastic cheering.
・Mile 1-7：Departing Downtown, runners proceed along the Allegheny River. They pass through the historic Strip District and move into the vibrant Cultural District. This section is flat and easy to run, with cheers from spectators along the route encouraging the runners.
・Mile 8-13：Runners cross into the North Side, passing iconic sports venues like PNC Park and Heinz Field (now Acrisure Stadium). They then run through beautiful parks and residential areas, experiencing the friendly cheers of local residents up close. Gentle undulations test the runners’ pace.
・Mile 14-20：A steep uphill climb on Manowa Hill awaits runners. This section, which ascends over 150 feet in about 0.5 miles, is a significant challenge in the middle of the course. However, a panoramic view of Pittsburgh unfolds from the top of the hill, making you forget your fatigue. Afterward, the course is generally downhill, leading back toward Downtown.
・Mile 21 to Finish：Runners pass through the South Side and run along the Monongahela River. A gentle uphill climb on Gladstone Street tests the runners. Finally, they enter Downtown. Running between historic buildings, the finish line is just ahead.
Finish point
Finish near Point State Park in the heart of Downtown! The sense of accomplishment of completing a major urban marathon and the countless cheers that await you at the finish line will be your best memories.
Elevation difference and climate
・Elevation difference：The elevation difference of the entire course is approximately 300m in elevation gain and 300m in cumulative elevation descent. The highest point is 425m, and the lowest point is 225m. In particular, the steep uphill on Manowa Hill is a major undulation of the course, and overall, there are many gentle undulations, making it a challenging course.
・Weather：The weather in Pittsburgh in early May, when the event is held, is often perfect for running. The average temperature is 10-20°C, and it is usually moderately humid with gentle winds.
Participant comments
・”The city of Pittsburgh was truly beautiful. The bridge views were especially amazing!”
・”The uphill on Manowa Hill was tough, but the view from the top was incredible.”
・”The support from the spectators along the course was enthusiastic, which kept me going until the end!”
・”It was inspiring to run while feeling the history of the Steel City.”
・”Thanks to the friendly volunteers and spectators.”
・”The delicious pierogi after the finish was the best reward.”
・”It’s a challenging course with many ups and downs, but the sense of accomplishment is that much greater.”
・”The homely atmosphere full of local pride was the best.”
Strategy
The key to conquering the Pittsburgh Marathon is pacing yourself when crossing the bridges and running through downtown in the early stages. Since many bridges are scattered throughout the course, be mindful of conserving energy to handle each elevation change. In the middle section, use the support from local residents in the unique neighborhoods to your advantage and strategically tackle the gentle ups and downs. On the way back to downtown in the final stages, exert your remaining strength and run through to the finish line. The weather is often suitable for running, so you’ll be able to perform to the best of your ability.
The Pittsburgh Marathon is a 42.195km journey that allows you to experience history, nature, and the warmth of the local people. Run through the Steel City with runners from all over the world, and experience the greatest excitement and sense of accomplishment of your life.
2025 Pittsburgh Marathon Summary
・Date and time: May 4, 2025
・Number of finishers:-
・Average finisher time: –
MEN
1:Mulgeta Birhanu Feyissa: 2:14:31
2:Milton Rotich: 2:14:43
3:Ian Carter: 2:18:33
4:Alejandro Ambrosio Martinez: 2:21:49
5:Will Loevner: 2:22:23
6:Nicholas Chelimo: 2:24:46
7:Steve Froeschle: 2:26:34
8:Dawson Thelin: 2:32:05
9:Ryan Gil: 2:36:20
10:Ryan Clark: 2:38:11
WOMEN
1:Jane Bareikis: 2:36:01
2:Aberu Mekuria Zennebe: 2:37:03
3:Megan O’Neil: 2:37:30
4:Alyssa Thomas: 2:43:44
5:Elise Molinaro: 2:45:26
6:Sarah Guhl: 2:46:15
7:Michelle King: 2:47:05
8:Katie Ruhlman: 2:47:40
9:Meghan Walsh: 2:48:22
10:Sarah Biehl: 2:49:10
2026 Pittsburgh Marathon
No further information has been announced for the 2026 Pittsburgh Marathon
Pittsburgh: From the Steel City to a Melting Pot of Innovation and Culture
Pittsburgh, once known worldwide as the “Steel City,” has today transformed into a fascinating city where innovation and culture merge. It is a city that has truly undergone a “renaissance,” where historic industrial heritage, a vibrant art scene, and cutting-edge technology coexist. Its diversity and energetic breath will never be forgotten once you step foot in the city.
Located at the confluence of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers, known as the “Three Rivers,” the landscape with its beautiful bridges is a symbol of Pittsburgh. From the modern skyscrapers of Downtown, the bustling markets of the historic Strip District, to the intellectual atmosphere of the university district of Oakland, each neighborhood tells its own story and captivates visitors.
World-class museums such as the Andy Warhol Museum and the Carnegie Museum of Art, as well as wonderful music from the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, are just some of the many cultural highlights. In Pittsburgh, where diverse ethnic groups gather, restaurants offering cuisine from various countries line the streets, making it known as a culinary city. For sports fans, it is also a place where they can experience an enthusiastic atmosphere as the home of professional sports teams.
Historical buildings and cutting-edge architecture coexist in this ever-changing city, which shows you a new side every time you visit. Filled with creative energy and infinite possibilities, Pittsburgh is a place where anyone can find their own story. Once you visit, you’ll be captivated by its charm and want to return again and again. It’s such a special city.
