The true beauty of running is the clarity that it brings and the places it can take you. Like music, running requires no translation to bring people together. Running can be done anywhere in the world, at any time and for as long as you can go for, which, for some is a very long ways.
Marathons are ancient and physically demanding races, celebrated and practiced by mankind since their creation almost 2,500 years ago. They are held all over the world through some of Earth’s most stunning landscapes. Why not take your passion on the road and try your stride on foreign soil? We promise: there's no better way to get a lay of the land.
Great Wall Marathon
It is one of the seven wonders of the world, can be seen from space, is in every history book you’ve ever picked up, kept the huns out of ancient China, and is a nationally recognizable symbol. The Great Wall is one of China’s most visited tourist sites - and entrants to the Great Wall Marathon get the chance to run its length completely undisrupted by other travelers. But don’t expect it to be a walk in the park - this race is known to be one of the most difficult marathons in the world because runners have to climb about 5,164 steps through nearby villages. This race is quickly growing in popularity, and about 3,000 people participate every year.
Patagonia International Marathon
Patagonia is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, and trail running is no exception. Every year, about 400 runners from around the world travel to Torres del Paine National Park in Chile to tackle this intense alpine marathon. The mountains tower over 8000 feet, dominating the unforgiving landscape known for abundant wildlife, gorgeous rivers, placid lakes, and great icy glaciers. The dirt and gravel course finishes at the base of Monte Almirante Nieto, one of the most impressive mountains in the region.
Boston Marathon
The Boston Marathon isn’t just one of the most renowned marathons on the globe, but it is also one of the oldest. Started in 1897, the Olympics from the previous year reignited public interest in the marathon. The course exposes you to some of Boston’s most well known landmarks, and is a spectacular way to tour the iconic east coast city. Runners who want to participate in this event must meet some fairly strict physical requirements and (unlike most marathons) must qualify to engage in the event. Despite the tragic attack that took place several years ago, participation has been as strong as ever, and, in true Boston spirit, the race has persisted with a renewed vigor.
Paris Marathon
Paris is one of the most romantic cities in the world, and what better way to experience that lustful aura than to push your body to its physical limit? The race hosts over 57,000 runners who scurry past some of Paris’ most inspiring landmarks, like the Champs Elysees, Place de la Bastilla, Notre Dame, Bois de Vincennes, and Boulogne. The course starts at the iconic Arc de Triomphe and ends near the guiding light of the Eiffel Tower. It's one of the city's most celebrated events, and people travel from far and wide to participate in the historic run.
Columbia Gorge Marathon
If you want to run one of the most scenic marathons on US soil, look no further than the Columbia Gorge Marathon in Oregon. Sculpted by the great Columbia River millions of years ago, the race course is one of the most stunning backdrops you will find anywhere. The canyon dives an impressive 4,000 feet deep, and runs for 80 miles, dividing Oregon from its northern neighbor, Washington. The race takes runners through unbelievable canyon terrain, past raging rapids, skirting around waterfalls, and through some small Oregon towns.