Run through the Emerald City and shake your senses. Seattle, a 42.195km dream
The Seattle Marathon is a unique urban marathon that combines the beautiful nature of the Pacific Northwest with the charm of the city. Held annually in late November, it is a spectacular 42.195km journey that starts in downtown Seattle, winds along the shores of Lake Washington and Lake Union, and passes through iconic city landmarks.
The contrast between the beautiful waterfront scenery and the city attracts runners. The undulating course is challenging, but the endless cheers of the spectators filling the roadside give the runners a powerful push.
An unforgettable feeling and sense of accomplishment awaits, as if the entire city is united in cheering you on.
Seattle Marathon: A 42.195km journey that stirs the senses
The Seattle Marathon is not just a race. It is an unforgettable adventure through Seattle’s vibrant waterfront, historic districts, and lush parks. Push your limits and write your story with runners from all over the world in this city, affectionately known as the Emerald City.
Course Overview
Starting Point
The emotional journey begins south of Seattle Center, near the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Harrison Street. Runners lining up at the starting line early in the morning are treated to breathtaking views of the Space Needle and Kelly Park, as well as the magnificent Cascade Mountains. The first few miles wind through the city, exciting the runners.
Sights along the way
The Seattle Marathon course attracts runners with its diverse scenery and enthusiastic cheering.
・3-10 miles：After leaving downtown, the course heads north on Eastlake Avenue, offering beautiful views of Lake Union. This section is relatively flat, and the cool air from the waterfront will feel pleasant. The warm cheers from spectators along the road will also help you keep up your pace.
・11-18 miles：The course turns south and enters Lake Washington Boulevard. This section features gentle undulations and offers beautiful lakeside views. Particularly around Martin Luther King Jr. Way South, lush parks and residential areas spread out, and support from the local community encourages runners.
・19-23 miles：Returning to the city, the course passes through landmarks such as historic Pioneer Square and King Street Station. This section is relatively flat, allowing runners to feel the vibrancy of the city. Spectators along the road will call out your name and cheer you on with all their heart.
・24 miles to the finish：Towards the end of the race, runners pass over the hills near Seattle University, along the east side of Lake Union Park, and head towards the finish line at CenturyLink Field (now Lumen Field). The last few miles are relatively flat, but the accumulated fatigue will test the runners. However, as they enter the stadium and approach the finish line, the loud cheers of the spectators will push them forward.
Finish point
The emotional finish is inside Lumen Field! The sense of accomplishment of completing the world’s largest city marathon with runners from all over the world at the home stadium of the local Seattle NFL team, the Seahawks, and the countless cheers waiting for you at the finish line will be the best memories.
Elevation difference and climate
・Elevation difference：The elevation difference of the entire course is about 300m in elevation gain and about 300m in cumulative elevation descent. The highest point is 100m and the lowest point is 2m. In particular, the ups and downs around Lake Washington and the gentle undulations of the city in the latter half of the course are major characteristics, and pacing in the middle and latter half of the race is important.
・Weather：Seattle in late November, when the race is held, often has relatively mild weather. The average temperature is 5-10°C, and while light rain may fall, the humidity is low, making it suitable for running. However, sudden changes in weather can occur, so preparation in advance is necessary.
Participants’ comments
・”It was great to run through the beautiful scenery of Seattle! I’ll never forget the section along Lake Washington.”
・”The support from the sidelines was enthusiastic, and I was able to keep going until the end!”
・”Finishing in Lumen Field was truly moving. I felt like an NFL player!”
・”It rained, but that made it even more like Seattle and a good memory.”
・”The whole city had a warm atmosphere, as if it was welcoming the runners.”
・”There were moderate ups and downs, which made for a challenging run. It’s a course that tests your strategy.”
・”It was a marathon full of Seattle’s unique charm that you can’t experience at other races.”
・”The local support was very encouraging. I want to run again next year!”
Strategy
The key to conquering the Seattle Marathon is to establish a rhythm in the flat sections of the city and around Lake Union at the beginning, and then efficiently navigate the gentle ups and downs along Lake Washington. Use the support from the local community in the middle of the race to gain energy, and maintain your pace after returning to the city towards the end. It’s especially important to pace yourself carefully, taking into account the undulations around Lake Washington and the gentle uphill climb towards Lumen Field at the end. Considering the possibility of rain, choosing non-slip shoes is also effective.
The Seattle Marathon is a 42.195km journey that will thrill all your senses. Run through a city where beautiful nature and urban life merge, with runners from all over the world, and experience the greatest thrill and sense of accomplishment of your life.
2024 Seattle Marathon Summary
・Date and time: December 1, 2024
・Number of finishers: –
・Average time: –
MEN
1:Max Randal:2:30:29
2:Alexander Shida:2:36:38
3:Trevor Uyemura:2:37:11
4:Jacob Alexander:2:37:23
5:Cameron Johnson:2:38:00
6:Adam Cook:2:39:13
7:Craig Coon:2:40:00
8:Nick Stenger:2:40:33
9:Blake Hilty:2:40:47
10:Karim Shakalia:2:41:03
WOMEN
1:Devin McMahon:2:59:30
2:Hannah Weaver:3:00:53
3:Ashley McKinstry:3:02:43
4:Rosie Blair:3:02:46
5:Maggie Mahoney:3:03:24
6:Hadassah Stoltzfus:3:09:23
7:Elissa Sander:3:10:04
8:Katherine Penner:3:14:48
9:Chloe Gansen:3:15:08
10:Charlotte Maines:3:17:07
2025 Seattle Marathon
Run through Seattle and surpass yourself. 42.195km will unleash a new you
・Location: South of Seattle Center, near the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Harrison Street
・Date and time: November 30, 2025
・Start time: 7:00 AM
Seattle: A city where innovation and nature resonate, an exciting everyday life
Seattle, known as the “Emerald City,” is a city where technology and rich nature are in perfect harmony. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Northwest, you can feel the pulse of a constantly evolving city. The futuristic silhouette of the Space Needle, the hustle and bustle of the vibrant Pike Place Market, and the calm waters of Lake Washington. Each tells its own story and captivating visitors.
Home to global companies like Microsoft and Amazon, Seattle constantly transmits cutting-edge technology and culture. However, at the same time, magnificent nature such as Mount Rainier and the Olympic Mountains are close at hand, offering a unique lifestyle where urban and natural environments coexist. Also famous as the birthplace of coffee culture, the streets are lined with unique cafes, and fragrant cups color daily life.
From the historic waterfront to the quirky art of Fremont and the craft beer culture of Ballard, Seattle is a melting pot of diverse cultures. Whether you’re listening to the Seattle Symphony Orchestra or taking a ferry to explore the beautiful islands, there is endless discovery and excitement to be had.
This city, where historical buildings and modern architecture coexist and is constantly changing, shows a new face every time you visit. Filled with creative energy and infinite possibilities, Seattle is a place where anyone can find their own story. Once you visit, you will be captivated by its charm and will want to return again and again. It is such a special city.
