The Lake Tahoe Marathon course is a point-to-point route that starts south of Homewood, California, and finishes at Lakeside Beach in South Lake Tahoe, California. This challenging yet scenic course offers runners a unique and unforgettable experience as they traverse the stunning landscapes surrounding the iconic Lake Tahoe.
The Specifics of the Lake Tahoe Marathon Course
The Lake Tahoe Marathon course is approximately 26.2 miles long, the standard distance for a marathon. The course features a significant elevation gain of 1,785 feet and an elevation loss of 1,775 feet, with a maximum elevation of 6,838 feet and a minimum elevation of 6,185 feet.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Distance | 26.2 miles |
| Elevation Gain | 1,785 feet |
| Elevation Loss | 1,775 feet |
| Maximum Elevation | 6,838 feet |
| Minimum Elevation | 6,185 feet |
The course is considered very hilly, with several significant climbs and descents. Runners will experience a mix of uphill and downhill sections, with some flat areas in between. The course route starts on Highway 89 at Meadow Road, just south of Homewood, California, and takes runners through the picturesque villages of Tahoma, Meeks Bay, Rubicon Bay, and Emerald Bay before finishing at Lakeside Beach in South Lake Tahoe.
Aid Stations and Support
The Lake Tahoe Marathon course is well-supported, with at least six aid stations located approximately every four miles along the route. Runners will have access to shuttle bus service to the start area and medical attention at the finish line.
Timing and Awards
The race starts at 8:00 AM, and runners who start at that time are eligible for age group awards. Early starters are not eligible for awards except for the finisher’s medal.
Course Markings
The course signs show “miles to go” rather than traditional mile markers, providing runners with a unique way to track their progress.
Weather Conditions
The average temperature on race day is around 47°F (8°C), with an average high of 65°F (18°C) and an average low of 29°F (-1°C). Runners should be prepared for a range of weather conditions during the event.
Boston Qualifier
The Lake Tahoe Marathon is a Boston Qualifier, meaning that runners who complete the course within the qualifying time can use their result to enter the prestigious Boston Marathon.
Course Difficulty
The Lake Tahoe Marathon course has a PR Score of 87.70 and a Course Score of 87.70, indicating that it is a challenging course but still suitable for achieving personal records.
Conclusion
The Lake Tahoe Marathon course offers a truly unique and unforgettable running experience. With its stunning scenery, challenging terrain, and well-supported infrastructure, this event is a must-do for any runner seeking a truly memorable and rewarding marathon experience.
Reference:
– Lake Tahoe Marathon Course Details
– Lake Tahoe Marathon Course Map
– Lake Tahoe Marathon Course Elevation Profile