Runners Conquer Newton's Heartbreak Hill and Historic Dams

The Boston Marathon course takes runners through Newton's landmarks, including a series of 200-year-old dams and the famous Heartbreak Hill.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 10:05pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting in vibrant blues, greens, and reds depicting Boston Marathon runners ascending the steep incline of Heartbreak Hill in Newton, with the Charles River dams and other landmarks visible in the background.A cubist interpretation of the iconic Heartbreak Hill in Newton, where Boston Marathon runners confront a historic landscape of dams, golf courses, and monuments.Boston Today

The Boston Marathon course takes runners through the town of Newton, where they encounter a series of historic dams along the Charles River that have powered mills for over 200 years. Runners also face the challenge of Heartbreak Hill, a grueling uphill stretch that has become an iconic part of the race. Along the way, runners can spot landmarks like the Woodland Golf Club, designed by renowned golf course architect Donald Ross, and the Johnny Kelley statue commemorating a legendary Boston Marathon runner.

Why it matters

The landmarks and terrain of Newton have become an integral part of the Boston Marathon experience, testing the physical and mental fortitude of runners as they push towards the finish line. These historic sites provide a unique backdrop to one of the world's most prestigious road races, showcasing the rich history and character of the local community.

The details

As runners reach mile marker 16, they are greeted by the sound of the roaring Charles River cascading over a series of six dams that have powered local mills for over 200 years. One of these mills, which produced paper on rolls rather than sheets, still stands along the race route. Just before mile 17, runners can see the stately 103-year-old clubhouse of the Woodland Golf Club, designed by renowned golf course architect Donald Ross. At mile 19, runners catch a glimpse of Bullard's Pond, a former ice skating destination, and the famous double statue of Johnny Kelley, a legendary Boston Marathon runner who completed the race 61 times, including two wins. As runners battle up Heartbreak Hill, they pass along a grassy greenway that was once home to railroad tracks, where early marathoners raced against electric trolley cars.

  • The Boston Marathon has been held annually since the late 1800s.
  • The series of dams along the Charles River in Newton have been in place for over 200 years.
  • The Woodland Golf Club clubhouse was built 103 years ago.
  • The Johnny Kelley statue was unveiled in 1993, but was later moved and turned around after being hit by a car.
  • The Boston Marathon bombing occurred in 2013, with St. Ignatius of Loyola Church providing shelter to runners that day.

The players

Clara Silverstein

A historian with Historic Newton who provides context on the landmarks along the Boston Marathon course.

Donald J. Ross

A renowned golf course architect who designed the Woodland Golf Club course in Newton, known for his innovative approach to golf course design.

Johnny Kelley

A legendary Boston Marathon runner who completed the race 61 times, including two wins, and is commemorated with a double statue along the course.

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What they’re saying

“He absolutely added a nice esthetic to it.”

— Clara Silverstein, Historian, Historic Newton

“Runners, know to look for it because it's a big landmark for us.”

— Clara Silverstein, Historian, Historic Newton

What’s next

The 130th running of the Boston Marathon is scheduled for Monday, April 20, 2026, and WCVB will provide exclusive local broadcast coverage of the event.

The takeaway

The landmarks and terrain of Newton have become an integral part of the Boston Marathon experience, testing runners both physically and mentally as they push towards the finish line. These historic sites, including the Charles River dams, Woodland Golf Club, and the Johnny Kelley statue, provide a unique backdrop that showcases the rich history and character of the local community.