Set against the dramatic landscapes of Northern California, the Redding Marathon<\/a> offers runners a spectacular point-to-point route from Shasta Dam all the way to the iconic Sundial Bridge \u2014 one of the most visually striking finishes in the sport. With a full marathon, team relay option, and a 5K, this event welcomes runners of every level each winter.<\/p>\n The marathon begins at the famous Shasta Dam, where runners cross the dam structure and descend to a paved trail paralleling the Sacramento River. The first 9.7 miles deliver stunning river and canyon views on your way to the Keswick transition point. Miles 10 through 18 take a detour into historic Old Shasta before rejoining the Sacramento River Trail, crossing the Diestlhorst Bridge, and running out and back on the north riverbank. The final stretch leads to the iconic glass Sundial Bridge finish. The course is USATF-certified and qualifies for the Boston Marathon. The marathon and relay start at 8:00 a.m. at Shasta Dam; the Sundial 5K starts at 9:00 a.m. at the Sundial Bridge.<\/p>\n Pre-paid shuttle buses depart from the Sundial Bridge starting at 6:30 a.m., transporting marathon and relay runners to the Shasta Dam start. All finisher medals are awarded at the Sundial Bridge finish line. Results are printed and available every 20\u201330 minutes throughout the morning. Age group awards are presented for the marathon (top by 10-year age groups), relay (overall and category), and 5K (top 3 per 5-year age group). Bib pickup takes place at Fleet Feet in Redding the day before, or at the Sundial Bridge on race morning.<\/p>\n The Redding Marathon<\/a> is a rare combination of big scenery and an intimate, community-focused race atmosphere. With a field of roughly 200 marathoners, you won’t get lost in the crowd \u2014 you’ll get personalized support, quick results, and a finish line experience that feels personal. The Boston-qualifying certified course, dramatic dam start, and river trail running make this one of Northern California’s most underrated marathon experiences. The relay option is ideal for groups who want to enjoy the course together.<\/p>\n Redding is located in Shasta County along I-5, about 160 miles north of Sacramento and 230 miles from San Francisco. Fly into Redding Municipal Airport (RDD) for direct access, or Sacramento International Airport (SMF) for more flight options. The race finishes at Turtle Bay Exploration Park and the Sundial Bridge at 844 Sundial Bridge Dr, Redding, CA 96003. Downtown Redding offers a variety of hotels, many within minutes of the finish area. Book early as the race typically takes place in January or February when nearby accommodations can fill quickly.<\/p>\n Registration is available online at reddingmarathon.org<\/a>. Be sure to pre-register for shuttle bus transportation when signing up \u2014 buses are the primary way to reach the Shasta Dam start line and pre-payment is required.<\/p>\nThe Course<\/h5>\n
Race Day Experience<\/h5>\n
Why Run the Redding Marathon?<\/h5>\n
Travel & Logistics<\/h5>\n
How to Register<\/h5>\n