Boston Marathon

Distance

42.195 km

Fee

$270

Entry

Qualifying time only: entries closed 18 September 2026; 1,000 places drawn among those who missed the cut-off

Details

One of the Abbott World Marathon Majors; run on Patriots' Day Monday. Age-group standards, for example 2:55 for men and 3:25 for women aged 18–34

Time limit

See official rules

Course

From the official elevation profile on the course map (our reading, no figure stated): the course descends from the Hopkinton start toward the finish, with a climb around mile 20-21; the map marks the crest of Heartbreak Hill at mile 20.8. Net descent is not a comparable measure of difficulty with other races. Official source

Getting there

Logan airport (BOS); the start is in Hopkinton, with organised shuttles from the city.

Good to know

A qualifying time doesn't guarantee entry: what counts is how far under the standard you are. Charity entries are the alternative.

Details checked on October 26, 2026 against the sources listed. Fees and dates can change: always check the official site before entering or booking. Source: marathons.com