Run through the city and feel its pulse. Toronto, a 42.195km challenge
The Toronto Marathon is one of Canada’s most historic and popular urban marathons, attracting runners from around the world. Held annually in May, it features a 42.195km point-to-point course that starts at Yonge and Sheppard in North York, winds through diverse Toronto neighborhoods, and finishes at Exhibition Place.
Known for its flat, fast, and “net downhill” profile, the course is popular among runners aiming for personal bests. Along the route, continuous warm cheers from Torontonians powerfully support the runners, allowing them to feel the city’s energy firsthand. An unforgettable running experience blending challenge and accomplishment awaits you.
Toronto Marathon: A 42.195km journey woven by diverse cultures and vibrancy
The Toronto Marathon is not just a race. It is an unforgettable adventure through the vibrant neighborhoods of Toronto. Push your limits and write your story with runners from all over the world in this city where diverse communities thrive.
Course Overview
Starting Point
The emotional journey begins on Beecroft Avenue, behind Mel Lastman Square, at Yonge and Sheppard in North York. Early in the morning, runners lining up at the starting line are greeted by the sight of the wide Yonge Street stretching south. The first few kilometers feature a gentle downhill slope, facilitating a smooth start to the race.
Sights along the way
The Toronto Marathon course is flat, easy to run, and captivates runners with its diverse urban scenery.
・Early to Mid-Course：After starting at Yonge and Sheppard, you’ll head straight south on Yonge Street. This section is “net downhill,” making it easy to pick up speed. The scenery transitions from business districts to upscale residential areas and student neighborhoods, allowing you to enjoy Toronto’s diverse facets. You’ll also pass near historic landmarks like Casa Loma. Enthusiastic cheers from local residents line the route.
・Mid-Course to Late Course：Leaving Yonge Street, you’ll head west on major city roads, then make your way towards the Lake Ontario waterfront. This section is also relatively flat, making it easy to maintain your pace in the latter half of the race. As you approach the waterfront, iconic Toronto skylines, including the CN Tower and Harbourfront, come into view. Along the lakeshore, refreshing breezes and expansive views will invigorate runners.
Finish point
Finish at the magnificent Exhibition Place on the shores of Lake Ontario! The sense of accomplishment of completing a course that combines urban landscapes with the beauty of the lake, along with the countless cheers waiting for you at the finish line, will be the best memories.
Elevation difference and climate
・Elevation difference：The overall elevation difference of the course is a net downhill of approximately 97m (start point is higher than finish point), making it known as a very flat course. The elevation gain is about 84m, and the cumulative elevation descent is about 181m. The highest point is 180m (at approximately 2.8km mark), and the lowest point is 77m (at approximately 28.0km mark). Overall, it’s a net downhill course, making it a fast course ideal for achieving personal bests.
・Weather：Early May in Toronto, when the race is held, is a pleasant season ideal for running. The average temperature ranges from approximately 5 to 15°C, and it is usually dry with mild weather expected. It’s a beautiful season with fresh greenery, ensuring a comfortable run.
Participants’ comments
・”The net downhill course was truly easy to run. I set a new personal best!”
・”Running straight south on Yonge Street was unique and interesting. I really enjoyed the city atmosphere.”
・”The support from the spectators was incredibly enthusiastic! The waterfront section towards the end was especially amazing.”
・”I’ll never forget the feeling of seeing the CN Tower appear.”
・”I think it’s the best course for runners aiming to qualify for the Boston Marathon.”
・”It’s rare to find such a flat course in a city. Highly recommended for beginners too.”
Strategy
The key to conquering the Toronto Marathon is to take advantage of the gentle downhill slopes at the beginning, while being careful not to start too fast. Maintain a consistent pace through the flat urban sections in the middle, and then push with your last bit of strength along the waterfront towards the end. Since there are generally few ups and downs, it’s important to maintain a steady pace and run efficiently. The cool May weather is ideal for setting new records, allowing you to perform at your best.
The Toronto Marathon is a 42.195km journey that blends the vibrancy of Canada’s largest city with a flat course. Feel the pulse of the city as you aim for your personal best, and experience the greatest thrill and sense of accomplishment of your life!
2025 Toronto Summary
・Date and time: May 4, 2025
・Number of finishers: –
・Average time: –
MEN
1:Phil White:2:23:58
2:Lloyd MacKinnon:2:30:24
3:Cesar Moreno Quiroz:2:34:47
4:Fernando Simoes:2:36:13
5:Maxwell Sauers:2:39:55
6:Stephan Gerber:2:40:12
7:Liam Mitchell:2:40:38
8:Jeremy You:2:40:51
9:Ruslan Kortua:2:42:10
10:Mark Richardson:2:43:03
WOMEN
1:Ana Laura Fray:2:50:40
2:Emily Setlack:2:50:42
3:Kathie Rosselot:2:55:05
4:Jade Roberts:2:55:26
5:Zoë Doorenspleet:2:56:26
6:Maya Mozdzierz-Monico:2:57:04
7:Yuka Aoyama:2:57:50
8:Mia Zurkovic:2:58:12
9:Ellen Diemert:2:58:54
10:María Victoria:2:59:21
2026 Toronto Marathon
Run through Toronto and surpass your limits. 42.195km will unleash a new you.
・Location: North York Yonge and Sheppard (start point) to Exhibition Place (finish point)
・Date and time: May 3, 2026
・Start time: 7:30 AM
Toronto: A vibrant city where diversity thrives
Toronto is Canada’s largest city, a vibrant and diverse hub where people from all over the world converge. Its skyscraper-studded skyline exudes modern appeal, while historic buildings and vast parks add depth to its landscape. A fusion of diverse cultures, each district possesses its unique character, offering new discoveries with every visit.
The panoramic city views from the CN Tower, the colorful street art of the bustling Kensington Market, and the world-renowned collections of the Royal Ontario Museum. Furthermore, on the shores of Lake Ontario, tranquil waterscapes allow you to forget the urban hustle and bustle. Restaurants offering cuisines from across the globe, a lively entertainment district, and a variety of festivals held throughout the year symbolize Toronto’s diversity.
Toronto is a city where art, culture, food, and nature seamlessly blend. Its friendly people, clean and safe environment, and world-class infrastructure warmly welcome visitors. This city is constantly evolving, holding infinite possibilities. Toronto is a place where anyone can find “their own story,” and once you visit, you’ll be captivated by its charm and want to return again and again – that’s how special this city is.
