Run along the lake and feel the pulse of the city. Toronto, a 42.195km journey of emotion
The Toronto Waterfront Marathon is one of Canada’s largest international marathons, attracting runners from all over the world. Held every October, it features a flat and fast 42.195km course that winds from downtown Toronto along the beautiful shores of Lake Ontario.
Runners can experience iconic Toronto landmarks such as the CN Tower and the Harbourfront up close, while the warm cheers of spectators lining the streets powerfully encourage them.
An unforgettable running experience and sense of accomplishment await, blending urban vibrancy with natural beauty.
Toronto Waterfront Marathon: A 42.195km journey woven by city and nature
The Toronto Waterfront Marathon is not just a race. It is an unforgettable adventure exploring the diverse charms of Toronto. Push your limits and write your story with runners from all over the world in this city watched over by the gleaming waters of Lake Ontario.
Course Overview
Starting Point
The emotional journey begins at Queen’s Park in downtown Toronto, near Union Station. Early in the morning, runners lining up at the starting line are presented with the cityscape of Toronto, where modern skyscrapers harmonize with historic buildings. This section is relatively flat, building anticipation for the race.
Sights along the way
The Toronto Waterfront Marathon course is flat and easy to run, attracting runners with its diverse scenery.
・Early to Mid-Course：After starting from Queen’s Park, you’ll head south on Yonge Street towards the Lake Ontario waterfront. This section is generally flat, offering views of iconic Toronto landmarks like the CN Tower and Rogers Centre. Along the lakefront, vast views of Lake Ontario unfold, allowing you to run while enjoying the refreshing breeze. Continuous warm cheers from locals and tourists line the course.
・Mid-Course to Late Course：Continue west along the waterfront, passing near Sunnyside Beach Park and High Park. This section is also relatively flat, making it conducive for setting personal bests. After the turnaround point, you’ll head east along the waterfront again. Even as fatigue sets in, the lake views and spectator cheers will provide a powerful push.
Finish point
Finish at the magnificent Exhibition Place on the shores of Lake Ontario! The sense of accomplishment of completing Canada’s largest urban marathon 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 very small, and it is known as a flat course. Both elevation gain and cumulative elevation descent are approximately 50m, and the difference between the highest and lowest points is also small. This makes it a fast course where runners can aim for personal bests.
・Weather：October, when the race is held, is one of Toronto’s most beautiful seasons. The average temperature is a cool 5-12°C, which is ideal for running. It is usually dry, and mild, clear autumn weather can be expected.
Participants’ comments
・”I achieved a personal best on this flat course! The support from the sidelines was also wonderful.”
・”Running with the CN Tower in view was amazing. The scenery was truly beautiful.”
・”The waterfront scenery was superb, and I really enjoyed the run.”
・”It felt like the entire city of Toronto was welcoming the runners.”
・”The lakefront scenery towards the end was encouraging. Its beauty made me forget my fatigue.”
・”The support from family and friends gave me strength. I enjoyed the friendly atmosphere.”
Strategy
The key to conquering the Toronto Waterfront Marathon is to maintain a steady pace from the start and maximize the advantage of the flat course. Relax at the mid-course waterfront and turn the late-course lake views and spectator cheers into power. Since there are few ups and downs overall, it is important to maintain a consistent pace. The cool October weather is ideal for setting new records, allowing you to perform at your best.
The Toronto Waterfront Marathon is a 42.195km journey that blends urban charm with natural beauty. Wouldn’t you like to run along the beautiful lakefront, surrounded by warm cheers, and experience the greatest thrill and sense of accomplishment of your life?
2024 Toronto Waterfront Marathon Summary
・Date and time: October 20, 2024
・Number of finishers:-
・Average time:-
MEN
1:Mulugeta Asefa Uma:2:07:16
2:Domenic Ngeno:2:07:23
3:Noah Kipkemboi:2:07:31
4:Hailu Zewdu:2:08:02
5:Brian Kipsang:2:08:38
6:Gizealew Ayana:2:10:49
7:Justin Kent:2:12:17
8:Elvis Kipchoge Cheboi:2:12:52
9:Wesselius Lee:2:13:52
10:Andrew Alexander:2:14:13
WOMEN
1:Waganesh Mekasha:2:20:44
2:Roza Dereje:2:21:26
3:Afera Godfay:2:21:50
4:Meseret Gebre:2:24:50
5:Natasha Wodak:2:27:54
6:Rediet Daniel:2:33:05
7:Leslie Sexton:2:33:15
8:Lydia Simiyu:2:33:49
9:Rachel Hannah:2:34:33
10:Anne-Marie Comeau:2:35:16
2025 Toronto Waterfront Marathon
Run through Toronto and discover a new you. 42.195km will unleash your potential.
・Location: Downtown Toronto (starting at Queen’s Park)
・Date and time: October 19, 2025
・Start time: 8:00 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, the tranquil waterscapes of the waterfront’s Harbourfront 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.
