Boston Marathon Course Guide Unveiled for 2026

The iconic route through Massachusetts towns and neighborhoods is revealed for next year's race.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 10:40am

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The Boston Marathon, one of the world's most prestigious running events, has unveiled the course guide for the 2026 edition of the race. The 26.2-mile route will take runners through the historic towns and neighborhoods of Massachusetts, including Hopkinton, Ashland, Framingham, Natick, Wellesley, Newton, Brookline, and Boston.

Why it matters

The Boston Marathon is a beloved annual tradition that draws thousands of elite athletes and spectators from around the globe. The course is renowned for its challenging hills, particularly the infamous 'Heartbreak Hill' in Newton, which tests the endurance of even the most seasoned marathoners. Releasing the course details well in advance allows runners to strategize their training and prepare for the unique demands of the Boston route.

The details

The 2026 Boston Marathon course will follow the same iconic path as previous years, starting in Hopkinton and winding through several Massachusetts towns before finishing on Boylston Street in downtown Boston. Key landmarks along the route include the Boston Marathon finish line, the hills of Newton, and the campus of Wellesley College, where spectators traditionally cheer on the runners.

  • The 2026 Boston Marathon is scheduled for Monday, April 20, 2026.
  • The course guide was released on April 8, 2026, giving runners several months to familiarize themselves with the route.

The players

Boston Athletic Association

The non-profit organization that manages and hosts the annual Boston Marathon.

Art Illman

A local journalist who provided a timelapse video of the Boston Marathon course.

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What they’re saying

“Travel the Boston Marathon route through Hopkinton, Ashland, Framingham, Natick, Wellesley, Newton, Brookline and Boston.”

— Art Illman, Journalist

What’s next

Runners can now begin planning their training regimens and strategies for tackling the Boston Marathon course in 2026.

The takeaway

The release of the Boston Marathon course guide is an eagerly anticipated annual event for the running community. By providing detailed information about the iconic route, the Boston Athletic Association helps athletes prepare for one of the most challenging and rewarding marathons in the world.