Races

Founded in 1979, the Gorham Savings Bank Maine Marathon, Half Marathon and Marathon Relay is one of New England’s longest running marathon events. Wrapping around Portland’s Back Cove neighborhood and up the scenic Maine coast to Yarmouth, this out-and-back course is known for its rolling hills, peak fall foliage and stunning views of Portland and the Atlantic Ocean.

Beyond the beautiful scenery, the Maine Marathon is known for its amazing people. There are bands, entertainers and enthusiastic fans who line the course to cheer on runners of all levels. The all-volunteer staff – led by the dedicated members of the Maine Track Club – has earned a reputation for organizing and executing one of the most well-run events in the country.

You can’t beat Maine in the fall, and the Maine Marathon is a must for runners of all levels. Plus, because this nonprofit race donates roughly 40% of its gross revenue to charity, your participation helps some great causes.

The race is comprised of three unique events, all of which start and finish along Baxter Boulevard in Portland’s scenic Back Cove.

2023 Course Updates

The 2023 Maine Marathon, Half Marathon and Marathon Relay courses are free of major construction on Baxter Boulevard and Veranda Street during the first and last miles of all events. Only minor work is continuing on Baxter Boulevard that does not impact the course.

The gravel section of the marathon and marathon relay near Mile 13 has been eliminated. To make up for that distance, all participants, including half marathoners, will do a new neighborhood loop with ocean views immediately after crossing Martin’s Point Bridge – a right onto Bay Shore Drive, then a left onto Reg Roc Road back to Route 1. Later, marathon and relay runners will detour off Route 88 during mile 10 in Cumberland for another neighborhood loop with ocean views, turning right onto Ledge Road, then left onto Teal Drive and back to Route 88. Then, just before the 13-mile mark, runners will turn left onto Morton Road from Princess Point Road, bypassing the old gravel road turnaround.

During the return to Portland, the course is unchanged for all events, except the start/finish line and the half marathon turnaround have moved slightly.

These courses have been measured by a USATF certifier, and official certification and sanctioning by USATF are pending as of Sept. 15.

Marathon

A USATF certified course and Boston Marathon qualifier, the Maine Marathon is a runner-friendly, scenic marathon course that attracts racers of all levels, including elite runners from Maine, across America and around the world.
Learn more about the Maine Marathon

Half Marathon

USTAF certified, the Maine Half Marathon follows the same course as the marathon for the first 6.5 miles before breaking off and returning back toward Portland.
Learn more about Maine Half Marathon

Marathon Relay

Perfect for groups and charity fundraisers, this event allows teams of up to four people cover separate legs of the course. Relay exchange stations and convenient shuttles make this event a favorite.
Learn more about the Maine Marathon Relay