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The Napa Valley Marathon is a world-class point-to-point race through California’s premier wine country, known for its fast, net-downhill course and scenic vineyard views.
Course Highlights
The point-to-point marathon course begins in Calistoga and traverses the length of the famed Silverado Trail, finishing at Vintage High School in Napa. Runners enjoy a scenic, net-downhill route (303-foot drop) that winds past world-renowned vineyards and iconic wineries. The terrain features gentle rolling hills in the first six miles, followed by a mostly flat and fast stretch with minimal turns—only four in the final four miles. The half marathon joins the same path starting from Conn Creek Winery, providing a half-distance tour of the valley’s picturesque, soul-satisfying scenery.
Why Runners Love It
Often cited as a top Boston Marathon qualifier, the Napa Valley Marathon is celebrated for its stunning “bucolic vineyard” scenery and exceptional runner support. Known as the “biggest little marathon in the West,” it offers a prestigious experience without the overwhelming crowds of major city marathons. The race’s unique prize structure, which includes etched double magnums and cases of local wine for top finishers, reflects the region’s rich viticultural heritage. Its blend of high-performance potential, breathtaking landscape, and deep-rooted community philanthropy makes it an iconic bucket-list event for runners worldwide.
Race Details
- Location: Napa, United States
- Distances: Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K
- Next Race Date: 2027-03-07
- Start Time: 07:30
Race Weekend Tips
Plan to attend the race expo at the Napa Valley Marriott Hotel & Spa on Friday or Saturday to pick up your bib, as there is no race-day pickup. Since parking is prohibited at the marathon and half marathon start lines, runners should use the complimentary shuttle buses departing from Vintage High School. March weather in Napa typically features cool mornings in the 40s and highs in the 60s, so dressing in layers is recommended. Consider staying in Napa or Yountville for convenient access to the finish line and shuttles.
History & Charity
Founded in 1979, the Napa Valley Marathon has grown into a premier destination race while maintaining its community-focused “biggest little marathon” feel. As a nonprofit organization, the race has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to local causes, including approximately $75,000 annually in college scholarships for Napa County high school seniors. It also partners with national organizations like the American Cancer Society, LUNGevity, and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation to facilitate dedicated charity fundraising efforts.
Napa, CA 94558 United States
The Napa Valley Marathon is a world-class point-to-point race through California’s premier wine country, known for its fast, net-downhill course and scenic vineyard views.
Course Highlights
The point-to-point marathon course begins in Calistoga and traverses the length of the famed Silverado Trail, finishing at Vintage High School in Napa. Runners enjoy a scenic, net-downhill route (303-foot drop) that winds past world-renowned vineyards and iconic wineries. The terrain features gentle rolling hills in the first six miles, followed by a mostly flat and fast stretch with minimal turns—only four in the final four miles. The half marathon joins the same path starting from Conn Creek Winery, providing a half-distance tour of the valley’s picturesque, soul-satisfying scenery.
Why Runners Love It
Often cited as a top Boston Marathon qualifier, the Napa Valley Marathon is celebrated for its stunning “bucolic vineyard” scenery and exceptional runner support. Known as the “biggest little marathon in the West,” it offers a prestigious experience without the overwhelming crowds of major city marathons. The race’s unique prize structure, which includes etched double magnums and cases of local wine for top finishers, reflects the region’s rich viticultural heritage. Its blend of high-performance potential, breathtaking landscape, and deep-rooted community philanthropy makes it an iconic bucket-list event for runners worldwide.
Race Details
- Location: Napa, United States
- Distances: Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K
- Next Race Date: 2027-03-07
- Start Time: 07:30
Race Weekend Tips
Plan to attend the race expo at the Napa Valley Marriott Hotel & Spa on Friday or Saturday to pick up your bib, as there is no race-day pickup. Since parking is prohibited at the marathon and half marathon start lines, runners should use the complimentary shuttle buses departing from Vintage High School. March weather in Napa typically features cool mornings in the 40s and highs in the 60s, so dressing in layers is recommended. Consider staying in Napa or Yountville for convenient access to the finish line and shuttles.
History & Charity
Founded in 1979, the Napa Valley Marathon has grown into a premier destination race while maintaining its community-focused “biggest little marathon” feel. As a nonprofit organization, the race has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to local causes, including approximately $75,000 annually in college scholarships for Napa County high school seniors. It also partners with national organizations like the American Cancer Society, LUNGevity, and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation to facilitate dedicated charity fundraising efforts.