Embrace the Pacific breeze, run through 42.195km of spectacular scenery
The Vancouver Marathon is Canada’s oldest urban marathon and is known as one of the most beautiful courses in the world. Held annually in early May, a spectacular 42.195km journey awaits runners, circling through the cityscapes of Vancouver, the rich nature of Stanley Park, and the sparkling Pacific coastline.
The course is generally considered flat and easy to run, but there are some gentle ups and downs, and some challenging sections, especially within Stanley Park. However, the warm cheers of the local residents filling the roadside and the magnificent scenery unique to Canada provide a strong push for runners. An unforgettable experience and sense of accomplishment await, where the vibrancy of the city and the beauty of nature merge.
Vancouver Marathon: A 42.195km Harmony of Nature and City
The Vancouver Marathon is not just a race. It’s an unforgettable adventure through Vancouver’s breathtaking natural landscapes and vibrant urban charm. Against the backdrop of the magnificent Pacific Ocean, push your limits with runners from all over the world and write your story.
Course Overview
Starting Point
The emotional journey begins in the heart of downtown Vancouver, near Queen Elizabeth Park. Early in the morning, runners lining up at the starting line are treated to a unique atmosphere where the city’s vibrancy and nature’s tranquility blend. The first few kilometers are a gentle downhill, allowing for an excellent start.
Sights along the way
The Vancouver Marathon course captivates runners with its diverse scenery and warm support.
・1 mile to 10 miles：After the start, runners pass through lively districts like Granville Island and run through urban areas such as Barkley Street and Westbrook Mall. This section is relatively flat, and the enthusiastic cheers from spectators along the road will help runners maintain their pace.
・10 miles to 20 miles： As the race approaches its halfway point, runners enter “Stanley Park,” an icon of Vancouver. Within this vast urban park, picturesque scenery unfolds as runners traverse the beautiful coastline along the Seawall and forested areas. This section features gentle undulations, but the fresh air and the beauty of nature will soothe runners’ minds.
・20 miles to Finish：After exiting Stanley Park, the course returns to the urban area, running along the coastline with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, including Kitsilano Beach. Towards the end of the race, a gentle uphill section tests runners, but as the finish line approaches, the roadside cheers reach their peak, drawing out the runners’ last burst of energy.
Finish point
The emotional finish is in the heart of downtown Vancouver, near Canada Place. With the magnificent Pacific Ocean and city views as a backdrop, the sense of accomplishment of completing 42.195km and the countless cheers waiting for you at the finish line will be the best memories.
Elevation difference and climate
・Elevation difference：The overall elevation change of the course is relatively gentle, but there are some gentle uphill sections within Stanley Park and towards the end of the race. While detailed elevation gain is not officially published, it is generally known as a flat and easy-to-run course.
・Weather：Vancouver in early May, when the race is held, often has ideal weather for running. The average temperature is 10-15°C, and it is usually mild and pleasant. While light rain may occasionally fall, it can be said that the conditions are ideal for running through Canada’s beautiful nature.
Participants’ comments
・”The scenery in Stanley Park was breathtakingly beautiful, and it made me forget my fatigue!”
・”The support from the local residents along the road was truly warm and encouraged me many times.”
・”The course, which combines city and nature, was an experience I couldn’t get anywhere else.”
・”The view and cheers at the finish line were amazing, and it was an emotional finish.”
・”I was able to run through Canada’s magnificent nature, and it was truly refreshing for my mind.”
Strategy
The key to conquering the Vancouver Marathon is to establish a rhythm with the gentle downhill at the beginning and maintain your pace while enjoying the beautiful scenery within Stanley Park. Prepare for the gentle uphill sections at the end, conserve your energy, and turn the magnificent Pacific views into strength. While the course is generally easy to run, there are moderate undulations, so a sensible pacing strategy is key to completion. The climate in early May is suitable for running, so you’ll be able to perform to the best of your ability.
The Vancouver Marathon is a 42.195km journey where you can feel the Pacific breeze and run through a beautiful course that harmonizes nature and the city. Together with runners from all over the world, enveloped by moving scenery and warm cheers, why not experience the greatest sense of accomplishment of your life?
2025 Vancouver Summary
・Date and time: May 4, 2025
・Number of finishers: 6,617 (Men: 4,589, Women: 2,011, Non-binary: 17)
・Average time: –
MEN
1: Dominic Arce: 2:14:32
2: Tristan Woodfine: 2:16:51
3: Yuki Kawauchi: 2:18:16
4: Sergio Raez Villanueva: 2:22:51
5: Andrew Cusmano: 2:24:10
6: Craig McMillan: 2:25:09
7: David Mutai: 2:26:51
8: Sam Hendry: 2:27:08
9: Matthew Neumann: 2:27:53
10: Kip Kangogo: 2:28:01
WOMEN
1: Dayna Pidhoresky: 2:35:05
2: Lindsay Lamrock: 2:39:49
3: Claire Sumner: 2:45:23
4: Rozlyn Boutin: 2:46:28
5: Kat Drew: 2:47:58
6: Emily Pritt: 2:51:33
7: Natalie Johnston: 2:51:38
8: Eva Scott: 2:52:45
9: Catrin Jones: 2:52:53
10: Jenny Bulk: 2:53:29
2026 Vancouver Marathon
Run through the spectacular Pacific scenery and surpass yourself. 42.195km will unleash a new you
・Location: Heart of downtown Vancouver, near Queen Elizabeth Park (starting point)
・Date and time: May 3, 2026
・Start time: 7:00 AM
Vancouver: A City Where Nature and Urban Life Harmonize
Vancouver, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and towering mountains, is known as one of the world’s most livable cities. Modern skyscrapers perfectly blend with vast green spaces and abundant nature, offering visitors an unforgettable experience.
Step away from the bustling streets of downtown, and untouched nature unfolds. In Stanley Park, one of the world’s leading urban parks, you can enjoy cycling, jogging, and forest bathing, allowing you to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. Just a short distance from the city, you’ll find the North Shore mountains, perfect for skiing and snowboarding, and beautiful inlets for hiking and kayaking.
In this culturally diverse city, you can savor international cuisines and experience cutting-edge art in museums and galleries. From strolling through the historic streets of Gastown to enjoying fresh seafood and craft beer on Granville Island, there are endless discoveries and delights to be found.
Vancouver is a city with a unique charm, where urban convenience and natural beauty merge. From active outdoor experiences to cultural exploration and gourmet delights, it caters to all travel styles, 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 truly a special city.
