California International Marathon

Sacramento, United States of America 7 Dec, 2025

The California International Marathon is recognized for its point-to-point, net-downhill route that consistently attracts runners seeking a fast course. The marathon begins at Folsom’s scenic foothills, situated at approximately 359 feet elevation, and finishes at the California State Capitol in Sacramento at around 19 feet elevation. Over its 26.2-mile distance, the course moves through rural outskirts and several communities, including Orangevale, Citrus Heights, Fair Oaks, and Carmichael, before heading into Sacramento. Participants pass beneath autumn foliage as they approach the city, enhancing the experience with local seasonal colors.

The course profile contains gently rolling hills but maintains a steady downward trajectory overall. While the downhill nature supports fast times, runners encounter several undulating sections; these rolling hills are notable, especially in the first half of the race. Despite perceptions of a completely flat route, the elevation change can be felt, but it is not abrupt, and the overall net elevation drop totals about 366 feet.

Organized by the Sacramento Running Association, a nonprofit, the event is certified and sanctioned by USATF. It is a notable qualifier for the Boston Marathon and U.S. Olympic Trials, with a historically high percentage of participants achieving qualifying times. The event is structured to support a large field, with robust logistics for race day, runner tracking, and support amenities. The marathon typically starts in the cool mid-50s Fahrenheit, with weather conditions generally favorable for marathon performance.

Participants experience a well-supported race environment, with the local community contributing through cheering zones and volunteering. Downtown Sacramento offers proximity to the finish, the race expo, and plentiful dining and lodging options, making logistics straightforward for runners and their supporters. The event employs chip timing to ensure accurate results across all divisions and awards are distributed accordingly.

Runners often report that the combination of a fast course, well-organized event, and energetic community engagement creates an environment conducive to both competitive performances and personal achievement. The scenery, structure, and reputation of the California International Marathon continue to draw thousands each year, from elite athletes aiming for qualifying standards to first-time marathoners seeking a supportive, memorable race experience.

Generic Marathon Time This represents the time you would expect to run a "generic" marathon in. This is a marathon with around 250 m (800 ft) of elevation gain and a temperature around 10°C (50°F). For best results, use our Race Predictor.

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California International Marathon Time


Statistics

Elevation
Elevation Gain 210 m 689 ft
Elevation Low 5 m 16 ft
Elevation High 107 m 351 ft
Weather
Expected Temperature (Low) 6°C 42°F
Expected Temperature (High) 9°C 48°F
Chance of Rain 0%

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The California International Marathon is recognized for its point-to-point, net-downhill route that consistently attracts runners seeking a fast course. The marathon begins at Folsom’s scenic foothills, situated at approximately 359 feet elevation, and finishes at the California State Capitol in Sacramento at around 19 feet elevation. Over its 26.2-mile distance, the course moves through rural outskirts and several communities, including Orangevale, Citrus Heights, Fair Oaks, and Carmichael, before heading into Sacramento. Participants pass beneath autumn foliage as they approach the city, enhancing the experience with local seasonal colors.

The course profile contains gently rolling hills but maintains a steady downward trajectory overall. While the downhill nature supports fast times, runners encounter several undulating sections; these rolling hills are notable, especially in the first half of the race. Despite perceptions of a completely flat route, the elevation change can be felt, but it is not abrupt, and the overall net elevation drop totals about 366 feet.

Organized by the Sacramento Running Association, a nonprofit, the event is certified and sanctioned by USATF. It is a notable qualifier for the Boston Marathon and U.S. Olympic Trials, with a historically high percentage of participants achieving qualifying times. The event is structured to support a large field, with robust logistics for race day, runner tracking, and support amenities. The marathon typically starts in the cool mid-50s Fahrenheit, with weather conditions generally favorable for marathon performance.

Participants experience a well-supported race environment, with the local community contributing through cheering zones and volunteering. Downtown Sacramento offers proximity to the finish, the race expo, and plentiful dining and lodging options, making logistics straightforward for runners and their supporters. The event employs chip timing to ensure accurate results across all divisions and awards are distributed accordingly.

Runners often report that the combination of a fast course, well-organized event, and energetic community engagement creates an environment conducive to both competitive performances and personal achievement. The scenery, structure, and reputation of the California International Marathon continue to draw thousands each year, from elite athletes aiming for qualifying standards to first-time marathoners seeking a supportive, memorable race experience.

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