If you’re planning to run a marathon in New York, check out these races, which runners rank among the very best in the state.
Long Island Marathon – Long Island
This race kicks off on Charles Lindbergh Blvd., in Uniondale, and ends in Eisenhower Park. It’s a blend of suburbia and parkway, and many previous participants say it’s a great event if you’re looking to set a personal record. Excellent organization, helpful staff and enthusiastic spectators also make this New York marathon worthwhile. Click here for more information.
The Course
The course is generally flat and straightforward. Some of the more isolated stretches of highway can be psychologically challenging, and require a strong focus.
Image Source: Run-LI.com
Reviews
“All of those miles on the parkway can be challenging. If you know that going in, and if there is not bad weather, you have a chance to run a fast race. As someone who lives within a hour of the race, it was great local and inexpensive option. Also, the organization was solid!” -P.D., Marathonguide.com Review
“I enjoyed myself. The water/hydration stations were GREAT! Every mile on the full marathon course they had water and Gatorade. The people there were almost fighting amongst themselves to hand me a drink. They also cheered us all along.” – J.A., Marathonguide.com Review
Sehgahunda Trail Marathon and Relay – Mount Morris
The Seneca Indians once lived in the Sehgahunda Valley, and the villages they called home are today part of Letchworth State Park, which extends over more than 14,000 acres. Its trails vary in terms of difficulty, and they’re the same trails the Indians used to access the Genesee River. As the official race website says, “We dare you to experience the beauty, history and challenge of this unique event!”
The Course
Sehgahunda is a very challenging and technical trail that includes short and long climbs, between 3,000 and 4,000 feet of climbing, more than 100 gullies to descend and climb, and lots of leaves, ruts, roots and rocks to maneuver. The trail is also 26.3 miles, slightly longer than a traditional marathon.
Image Source: YellowJacketRacing.com
Reviews
“Running this marathon was one of the most incredible adventures I have ever had! The course was absolutely breathtaking! The terrain was brutal and totally exhausting… It was extremely well organized and the volunteers/spectators were amazing in their support and enthusiasm!! This was the toughest but most gratifying run I will probably ever do!!! I would recommend it to anyone!!” – W.P., Marathonguide.com Review
“Each year I expect this race to kick my butt and my expectations have always been met. It’s such a fun day with great runners, great volunteers and a beautiful trail.” -A.T., Marathonguide.com Review
Lake Placid Marathon – Lake Placid
This event, now in its 12th edition, was named the second best destination race in the US by Runner’s World back in 2010. It remains a challenging race set against a stunning backdrop, the Adirondack Mountains, in the lovely village of Lake Placid, which hosted the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics. Click here to learn more.
The Course
The “two loop out and back course” is mostly asphalt road, with about 1 mile of gravel and dirt. It is moderately rolling, with some flat sections and a few steep hills. It finishes with a significant hill in the final mile. It runs along Mirror Lake and has breathtaking views of Whiteface Mountain and the Olympic Ski Jumps.
Image Source: LakePlacidMarathon.com
Reviews
“Lake Placid is a beautiful place to run a race. The course is challenging. There were plenty of aid stations and they were well managed. The organization was top notch. If you are looking for a small town marathon this time of year, this is the place to go.” – T.C., Marathonguide.com Review
“Very much enjoyed the LPM. Loved Lake Placid and the surrounding area (bobsledding the day before was a blast!). TONS of well-stocked water stops – kudos to the organizers.” – J.P., Marathonguide.com Review
Sri Chimnoy Marathon – Congers
This race, which is a Boston qualifier, has a very unique flavor. Previously called the “Self-Transcendence Marathon”, it attracts followers of Indian spiritual master Sri Chimnoy from all over the world. Previous editions saw poets, sitar players, drummers and musicians on-hand to provide support and encouragement. “Love and inspiration abound”, according to one former participant. Click here for more info about this New York marathon.
The Course
This circuit-style race features a scenic, 3-mile loop (completed 9 times) around Rockland Lake. It’s very flat, mostly shaded and quite pretty.
Image Source: US.SriChimnoyRaces.org
Reviews
“I love this run! Big weird fun. Tons of food and support. Super flat, well supported, non-competitive. Get cheered on by guys with sitars and strange beautiful drums. These folks really are in it ‘for the marathon of life.” – M.B., Marathonguide.com Review
“All marathons needs are met. We had food, bathrooms and support, all of which were exceptional. Music at different miles was soothing. Since it is 3 miles around a lake, this is a 9-lap race… so if one is a slow marathoner, there is always another runner nearby. Great enthusiasm by support of organization…” – Grannie Annie, Marathonguide.com Review
Adirondack Marathon – Schroon Lake
This marathon stands out in several ways: the scenery is beautiful, as you run through the woods and along the lakeshore; the attention to detail is exceptional; and the organization is outstanding. Every year they look for ways to improve this popular “small-town” marathon.
The Course
According to the official website, the race begins in the town of Schroon, and runners complete a full loop around Schroon Lake on paved roads (except for one half-mile stretch of gravel road). The first 4 miles are rolling or flat. Miles 4 through 12 have short, steep hills on two-lane country road east of the lake. Miles 13 through 18 are flat. This is followed by long, gentle hills on Route 9, heading north to the finish line in Schroon.
Image Source: AdirondackMarathon.org
Reviews
“Can’t say enough good things about the Adirondack Marathon. The town comes alive. The spectators are great. The beauty of the Adirondacks shine. Proud to call this my home. I would recommend this race to anyone looking for a challenge and a rewarding finish!” – J.B., Marathonguide.com Review
“From the subscription (free for military members) to the end, everything was awesome, well organized, good food, great spectators, everything was perfect. THANK YOU.” – Eric, Marathonguide.com Review
Hamptons Marathon – East Hampton
According to the official website, “The Hamptons Marathon is a favorite fall race for runners and has sold out the last eight years. Last year runners from 35 states and 6 countries [participated]. The course runs through Amagansett, Springs and East Hampton with views of the Atlantic Ocean and Napeague Bay out to the Long Island Sound.”
The Course
The course is generally flat and fast, and the route has a total ascent of 120.82 meters and a maximum elevation of 14.8 meters. It covers a lot of beautiful terrain on Long Island’s East End.
Source: HamptonsMarathon.com
Reviews
“Nice varying terrain, very scenic, and at times quiet. Good energy. I’ve run some of the big ones (NYC, Boston) and many smaller marathons and this is in my top 3 favorites. Highly recommended.” – Paul, MarathonGuide.com Review
“I have run many other races and I can tell you that the Hamptons Marathon is not only one of the most well organized races, but more importantly, the most “personalized” race I have ever run! [The organizers] communicate weekly with runners and they offer training runs as well as motivation and great energy. They give so freely, cheering EVERYONE on no matter their level of fitness. The Hamptons Marathon is great from start to the finish.” – Rosie, Marathonguide.com Review
Wineglass Marathon – Corning
According to the official website, this Boston qualifier has been named a “top destination and must-do marathon” by Active Times and Livestrong, among others. Located in the southern Finger Lakes region, Corning is chock-a-block with post-race things to do and see, from breweries and wine tastings to museums and shops. For more information, visit this New York marathon’s website.
The Course
The course is flat, fast and scenic, and is net downhill with the occasional hill and incline. It starts off in Bath and finishes in Corning, and bus transportation is provided to the starting line.
Source: WineglassMarathon.com
Reviews
“The post-race food spread was pretty extensive and there was plenty of nearby parking. The glass medal is unique and the area businesses are very supportive of the race. And the area is a great weekend getaway with all of the nearby wineries.” – C.W., Marathonguide.com Review
“2014 was the first year I did this race, and I had such a great overall experience that I just had to return. The course itself is fast with one or two small hills and beautiful countryside scenery. The town of Corning is just a wonderful experience of dining, pubs, shops and very friendly people. The race organization is exceptional.” – Robert, Marathonguide.com Review
TSC New York City Marathon
This epic event is “a 26.2-mile block party through the world’s most diverse city”, according to the race website, which will see 50,000 people take the streets by storm. The race begins in Staten Island and runs through Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan and the Bronx, then returns to Manhattan and ends in Central Park. Two million spectators are expected to cheer on the runners, along with DJs and 130 live bands.
The Course
The course is challenging and “it’s wise to run this marathon by its topography rather than the pace on a watch”, according to Runner’s World. It’s marked by rolling hills and is entirely pavement, and it’s important to bear in mind that the thrill from screaming crowds can lead to an adrenaline rush and potentially throw you off your game.
Reviews
“Wow, where to start? crowds lined both sides of the street. Bands and music on nearly every corner, super funny hand-held signs, and thousands of high-fives and words of encouragement. All throughout the run. The energy of the crowd needs to be experienced because I don’t have the words to describe it. Overall, an absolutely amazing race.” – Seb, Marathonguide.com Review
“No other race compares to the NYC Marathon. Could find no fault with any portion of the event. Expo, transportation, staff, course markings, timing, medal – everything was professional and executed perfectly.” – J.M., Marathonguide.com Review