Quick Info
Date: December 13, 2025
Marathon Start Time: 7:00 AM
Half Marathon Start Time: 7:15 AM
10K Start Time: 7:30 AM
Expo: Friday, December 12, 2025 from 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Weather: The average low is 46F and the average high is 65F
Courses OverviewCourse
Interactive Map
Interactive Elevation
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Course Descriptions
Marathon
The Phoenix Marathon has a beautiful race course that winds through the city of Phoenix giving runners a tour of the valley. Marathon runners will experience a relatively flat course in this fast Boston Qualifier. The race has thousands of parking spots available around the finish at Phoenix Municipal Stadium.
Please Note: Registration for the Phoenix Marathon is limited.
TURNS MADE FROM START TO FINISH:
- Begin south on 31st Avenue
- Right at Yorkshire Drive
- Left at 35th Avenue
- Right at Paradise Lane
- Left at 43rd Avenue
- At Peoria Avenue, join the Arizona Canal Trail
- Right at 24th Avenue
- Left at Camelback Road
- Rejoin the Arizona Canal Trail at 40th Street
- Right at Arcadia Drive that becomes 48th Street
- Left at McDowell Road
- Right at Karsten Way
- Left at Eliot Ramada Loop
- Left at Papago Park
- Right at Galvin Parkway
- Right at Van Buren Street
- Turnaround at 55th Street
- Right at Priest Drive to Finish
Additional Marathon Information
All participants receive a tech shirt - choose from a long sleeve, short sleeve, tank or tri blend t-shirt.
Run The Valley - finisher medals will be given to those who complete the course in less than 6.5 hours.
Awards go to the top 3 in each age division in the marathon.
Top 3 men and women receive prize money.
The Phoenix Marathon is USATF sanctioned and certified.
Half Marathon
Brief Description
The Half Marathon has a beautiful race course that begins on the corner of Glendale & Central. The course descends down to Papago Park. Half marathon runners will experience nearly 200 feet of net elevation loss in this gentle downhill route that is great for a first time half marathon. Half Marathon runners will enjoy the diverse scenery from the desert vistas down to the beautiful finish near Papago Park.
Please Note: Registration for the Phoenix Half Marathon is limited.
TURNS MADE FROM START TO FINISH:
- Begin east on Glendale Avenue
- Right at Arizona Canal Trail at 16th Street
- Right at 24th Avenue
- Left at Camelback Road
- Rejoin the Arizona Canal Trail at 40th Street
- Right at Arcadia Drive that becomes 48th Street
- Left at McDowell Road
- Right at Karsten Way
- Left at Eliot Ramada Loop
- Left at Papago Park
- Right at Galvin Parkway
- Right at Van Buren Street
- Turnaround at 55th Street
- Right at Priest Drive to Finish
Additional Information
All participants receive a tech shirt - choose from long sleeve, short sleeve, tank or a tri blend t-shirt.
Run The Valley - finisher medals will be given to those who complete the course in less than 6.5 hours.
Awards go to the top 3 in each age division in the half marathon.
Top 3 men and women receive prize money.
This Arizona Half Marathon is USATF sanctioned and certified.
10K
Brief Description
The Phoenix 10K has a beautiful race course that begins at 40th Street on the Arizona Canal Trail. The route quickly enters the marathon and half marathon route, and boasts the same exciting finish line at Papago Park. This Arizona 10K offers an easy course for beginners. 10K runners will receive the highest level of treatment on our well-staffed route.
Please Note: Registration for the Phoenix Marathon 10K is limited.
TURNS MADE FROM START TO FINISH:
- Begin at Arizona Canal Trail at 40th Street
- Right at Arcadia Drive that becomes 48th Street
- Left at McDowell Road
- Right at Karsten Way
- Left at Eliot Ramada Loop
- Left at Papago Park
- Right at Galvin Parkway
- Right at Priest Drive to Finish
Additional Information
All participants receive a tech shirt - choose from long sleeve, short sleeve, tank or a tri blend t-shirt.
Finisher medals will be given to those who complete the course in less than 3 hours.
Awards go to the top 3 in each age division in the 10K.
All additional information regarding parking & busing, start lines, on-course amenities, finish festival, etc, can be found on the Race Day Info page.
Pacers will be running both the full marathon and half marathon to lead everyone to a fast time. Pacers will be implementing Smart Pacing strategy, which is an effort-based strategy that varies the pace of each mile according to course elevation changes. Pace guide wristbands will be available at the expo.
The Marathon will offer pacers at the following paces:
- 2:55 (Men's 18-34 BQ mark, 6:40/mile pace)
- 3:00 (Men's 35-39 BQ mark, 6:52/mile pace)
- 3:05 (Men's 40-44 BQ mark, 7:03/mile pace)
- 3:15 (Men's 45-49 BQ mark, 7:26/mile pace)
- 3:20 (Men's 50-54 BQ mark, 7:37/mile pace)
- 3:25 (Women's 18-34 BQ mark, 7:49/mile pace)
- 3:30 (Women's 35-39 & Men's 55-59 BQ mark, 8:00/mile pace)
- 3:35 (Women's 40-44 BQ mark, 8:12/mile pace)
- 3:45 (Women's 45-49 BQ mark, 8:35/mile pace)
- 3:50 (Women's 50-54 & Men's 60-64 BQ mark, 8:46/mile pace)
- 4:00 (Women's 55-59 BQ mark, 9:09/mile pace)
- 4:05 (Men's 65-69 BQ mark, 9:20/mile pace)
- 4:20 (Women's 60-64 & Men's 70-74 BQ mark, 9:54/mile pace)
The Half Marathon will offer pacers at the following paces:
- 1:30 (6:52/mile pace)
- 1:40 (7:38/mile pace)
- 1:50 (8:24/mile pace)
- 2:00 (9:10/mile pace)
- 2:10 (9:55/mile pace)
- 2:20 (10:41/mile pace)
Time Limits
Because the roads used for the race must be re-opened for normal traffic patterns, we are required to set course time limits that must be strictly adhered to. The course time limit for the full marathon is based on a 15:00 minute per mile pace, which is a light jog. This equates to a 6:33 marathon. The time limit for the half marathon is based on a 30:00 minute per mile pace, which is a leisurely walking pace. This equates to a 6:33 half marathon. The marathon will begin at 7:00am, and participants will need to finish by 1:03pm.
Those who are unable to maintain the required pace at each mile marker must consent to be picked up by an escort vehicle and escorted to the finish venue, where they will still be allowed to cross the finish line and receive a medal. Alternatively they may elect to move to the side of the road or sidewalk and obey standard traffic laws such as stopping at stop lights and intersections. Aid station support and course directional signage will be removed immediately following the rolling closure time at each mile marker.
Based on the USATF certification standards the course is measured on tangents or SPR-Shortest Possible Route. Therefore if you run on the inside or outside line the entire length of the race your GPS may reflect a distance slightly greater than 13.1 or 26.2.
Aid Stations
There are 13 aid stations along the marathon course, 7 aid stations along the half marathon course and 4 aid stations along the 10k course. All aid stations will be supplied with electrolyte drink, water, portable restrooms, and first aid. When passing an aid station, runners will always be offered electrolyte first and water second. Certain aid stations will also be supplied with energy gels and other amenities. Additionally, several aid stations will be supplied with muscle relief, energy gels, fruit, and medical personnel. See Aid Station Map below for details on exact locations and amenities at each aid station.
In an effort to contain waste and facilitate cleanup operations, runners are asked to discard trash and shed clothing as close as possible to an aid station rather than elsewhere along the course. Any clothing that is shed along the course or at an aid station will be collected and donated to charity.
Safety & Medical
Course Safety
Various road closures and vehicle traffic patterns will be implemented throughout the entriety of the course. Law enforcement officers, traffic flaggers, course marshals, and volunteers will be positioned along the course to ensure a safe race experience for runners as well as local commuters and residents. Participants should follow instructions from law enforcement officers and race personnel throughout all components of the event.
Medical Assistance
Each aid station will be supplied with a first-aid kit that will include items such as bandages, petroleum jelly, and basic anti-inflammatory medicine.
In addition to the first-aid kits, designated aid stations throughout the course will be staffed by medical personnel and will be equipped with advanced medical supplies. These aid stations will also have access to EMT services for urgent needs requiring medical transport.
SAG vehicles and ambulances will be roaming the course to assist participants who are unable to maintain the minimum pace requirement or complete the course. Participants will be transported to the finish line and offered the race recovery amenities as well as medical services, as needed.
Weather
Although we cannot predict the weather, we can provide some historical weather averages for the area on the date of the race:
- Average Low: 42F (right before sunrise at race start time)
- Average High: 65F (late afternoon)
Please remember that these are average temperatures for central Phoenix and that temperatures may be considerably cooler in the early morning hours priort to the start of the race. While we will provide gloves, we highly recommend that you come prepared for cold temperatures at the start line by layering and then shedding your layers to put in your drop bag just before the race begins.
On Course
Interactive course maps can be viewed on the courses page.
Road Closures
Motorists in the city of Phoenix and surrounding area may experience several marathon course-related street closures on Saturday, December 13, 2025. Expect traffic to be slow in and around areas impacted by the race course.
Street closures will begin at 4:00 a.m. on December 13th. Streets will re-open in stages with all streets re-opened by 2:00 p.m. Traffic will not be permitted to cross the race route during the event.
Motorists should plan ahead for possible delays. To avoid the race route completely, travelers are advised to skirt the perimeter by using the 101 Price Freeway (north and east borders); I-17 (central course area); and I-10 (south border).
Start & Finish Areas
Start Areas
Marathon Start Location: Deer Valley Towne Center
Half Marathon Start Location: Intersection of Glendale & Central Avenue
10K Start Location: Arizona Canal Trail just east of 40th & Camelback Road
Porta-potties, water, electrolyte beverage, and basic first aid items will be offered at each start area. While participant gear bags will be supplied with disposable gloves, participants should be prepared for cold temperatures at the start of the race.
Finish Line
Marathon / Half Marathon / 10K Finish Location: Priest Drive & Van Buren Street
Upon reaching the finish line, participants will be awarded a high-quality and distance specific race medal. The finish line will offer a variety of post-race recovery, such as water, electrolyte beverage, sweet & savory snacks, fruit, and cold towels. Medical personnel and EMTs will be positioned at the finish line to support any post-race medical needs.
Finish Festival
Marathon / Half Marathon / 10K Festival Location: Phoenix Municipal Stadium
Immediately after crossing the finish line runners will find themselves in an enclosed Runner Services area. Spectators will not be permitted to enter this area and should plan to meet up with their runners in the festival area north of the finish line. Once runners exit Runner Services they will not be allowed re-entry. They should ensure that they have collected their medal and recovery items before exiting.
Just past the runner services area, runners will be able to collect their free post-race food by removing the tear tags along the bottom of their bibs and redeeming them at the designated tents.
Runners of legal age will be treated to a free post-race beer in the Beer Garden, located in the festival area. Runners may either have their ID checked and receive a wristband or stamp at the Beer ID Check Booth during the Expo, or bring proper photo ID to the Beer Garden entrance.
Parking & Transportation
ALL RUNNERS MUST ride the bus to the start lines. There is no parking available at the respective start lines and it will not be possible to be dropped off anywhere near the start lines due to road closures that will be put in place several hours before the race begins. For everyone's safety and to ensure a timely arrival at your start line, please park or make your way to Phoenix Municipal Stadium, via public transporation, where you will then board a bus to your respective start line. Phoenix Municipal Stadium is where the finish line festival will be held. When you complete the race, you'll be right near where you parked your car in the morning. Or, if you took public transportation, you'll be able to return to your previous destination. More information will be forthcoming on exact locations and times at Phoenix Municipal Stadium for the loading of buses.
Please plan to carpool with other runners as much as possible in order to avoid long wait times and congestion in the parking area.
Drop Bags
You will receive a race bag when you pick up your packet at the expo. This bag is for you to take to the starting areas. A number that matches your race bib will be put on the outside of your race bag. This is to identify your bag at the finish area after the race, and you will need your bib to prove ownership of your bag when you pick it up.
Each start line staging area (including the 10K) will have a gear check truck. Runners must place their bags in the gear check trucks no later than 6:30am. Please do not leave valuable items such as phones, wallets, or car keys in checked bags. The Mesa Marathon will not be responsible for lost or stolen items.
Start Chute
Runners will be directed to line up in the start chutes beginning at 6:30 a.m. Large markers denoting various paces will line each start chute and runners will be directed to queue in the zone which marks their expected pace.
10K runners will line up on the Arizona Canal Trail just east of 40th & Camelback Road. Faster pace groups will stage in the chute on the canal trail near the start line, and slower pace groups will stage farther west down Camelback Road.
Half Marathon runners will line up on Intersection of Glendale & Central Avenue. Faster pace groups will stage closer to start line just beyond Glendale Avenue, and slower pace groups will stage farther west along Central Avenue.
Marathon runners will line up near Deer Valley Towne Center on N 31st Avenue. Faster pace groups will stage closest to the start line near Behrend Drive, and slower pace groups will stage farther north towards the staging area in the Deer Valley Towne Center parking lot.
Expo
The Phoenix Marathon expo will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025 from 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM at Phoenix Convention Center. Each runner must present a valid photo ID or a copy of their confirmation email in order to pick-up their bib, timing chip, and race shirt. If you are picking up for another runner, do not forget their photo ID (a photocopy or digital copy / picture will be accepted) or a copy of their confirmation email as well. Please be ready to confirm the name and date of birth on the bib(s) you are picking up.
There are many great vendor opportunities to take advantage of at our event. From exhibiting at the expo, to being a part of the runner swag bag, or setting up at the finish line, let us help you find the best way for your company to activate at this year's event on our Vendor Page.
Participants who are unable to attend the race expo are encouraged to consider race-day bib pickup or bib mailing prior to the event. Both options are available for an additional fee and can be selected during registration.
Runner Perks
Medals
All participants will be awarded a high-quality and race specific medal upon reaching the finish line.
Shirts
All participants will receive a high-quality, gender-specific race shirt during bib pickup at the race expo. Participant are also able to upgrade the race shirt to a long sleeve, tank top, or tri-blend during registration for an additional fee.
Swag
Phoenix Marathon race swag as well as swag provided by sponsors will be included in race bags provided at the expo. Participants should visit the vendor booths at the expo for additional swag.
In anticipation for cold temperatures at the start line, disposable gloves will also be supplied. Participants should subscribe to Phoenix Marathon emails and social channels for additional swag giveaways.Transfer, Withdrawal, & Deferral Policy
In the event a participant is no longer able to participate in the registered race, participants are able to change between race distances, defer their registration to the following year, transfer their entry to a partnering race, transfer their entry to another participant, or withdraw completely. Please see the withdrawal, transfer, & deferral page for more details.
Expo
Spectator Info
Spectator Information
Spectators are welcomed and encouraged along the vast majority of the route. Please be considerate of public and private property and never interfere with the progress of any race participant. Spectators are required to follow the instructions of volunteers and law enforcement officers at all times.
Spectators are also invited to await the arrival of participants at the finish line and/or finish festival.
Recommended cheering locations:
- SE or SW Corner of N 35th Avenue & Union Hills Drive
- NW or SW Corner of N 43rd Avenue & Thunderbird Road
- Intersection of N 29th Avenue & Arizona Canal Trail
- South Side of Dunlap Avenue & Arizona Canal Trail
- Intersection of N 12th Street & Arizona Canal Trail
- Intersection of Glendale Avenue & Arizona Canal Trail
- NW & SW Corner of Missouri Avenue & N 24th Street
- NW & SW Corner of Camelback Road & N 24th Street
- SW & SE Corner of Camelback Road & N 40th Street
- Intersection of Osborn Road & 48th Street
- Corner of Van Buren Street and Priest Drive
- Finish Line approach on Priest Drive
Travel
Partner Hotels
The Phoenix Marathon is partnered with local hotels to offer special rates for Phoenix Marathon runners. You can book these now through the link here to access the best rates for lodging near the race.
Rental Cars
The Phoenix Marathon has teamed up with Enterprise & National to get you the best rate! Book your rental car using this booking link.
Local Events
More info on local events during race week can be found here.
Elite Runners
The following times qualify a runner as an Elite for purposes of the Phoenix Marathon. Times must have been achieved within the last three years.
- Men - Marathon: 2:19:00
- Men - Half Marathon: 1:04:00
- Men - 10K: 30:30
- Women - Marathon: 2:40:00
- Women - Half Marathon: 1:13:00
- Women - 10K: 33:30
The top three men and women in the Marathon will be awarded the following cash prizes:
- 1st Place: $1,000
- 2nd Place: $500
- 3rd Place: $150
The top three men and women in the Half Marathon will be awarded the following cash prizes:
- 1st Place: $1,000
- 2nd Place: $500
- 3rd Place: $150
Elite athletes may take advantage of a private fuel drop at select aid stations. They will receive separate transportation to the start line as well as private restrooms at the start and finish lines.
The Phoenix Marathon will not provide travel and lodging accomodations for Elite athletes unless separately agreed upon.
The deadline to request entry as an Elite athlete is November 15th.
Results & Awards
Results
Race results will be available shortly after participants reach the finish. Race results certificate cards will be available to participants at the Results tent located at the finish festival.
Boston Qualifiers
Qualifying for the Boston Marathon is a huge achievement, and we want to celebrate it with you! If you qualify for Boston while running the Phoenix Marathon, stop by the results tent to receive a free BQ luggage tag. Use it proudly when you travel to Beantown next April! Check out Boston qualifying times here.
Awards
Awards ceremonies for overall winners will take place at the Finish Line Festival. The 10K awards ceremony will occur at 7:30 am; the Half Marathon awards ceremony will occur at 8:30 am; the Marathon awards ceremony will occur at 9:30 am. There will not be an awards ceremony for age division winners.
You must be present to receive an award. Awards will not be mailed to individuals.
Age division awards will also be given to the top 3 finishers within their age division and winners can claim their awards at the Results tent located at the finish festival.
Age divisions include the following:
- 1-14
- 15-18
- 19-24
- 25-29
- 30-34
- 35-39
- 40-44
- 45-49
- 50-54
- 55-59
- 60-64
- 65-69
- 70-74
- 75-79
- 80+
