San Francisco

Racing it

1. 01

   Ease Into the Park Climb

   The early kilometers through Golden Gate Park are rolling, climbing to a high point around 85 m before a long descent to the coast. Keep the opening miles controlled and let the drop carry you down.

   From the description

2. 02

   Save Speed for the Highway

   Once you reach the Great Highway the course turns largely flat, so settle into a steady pace there instead of spending energy on the park's early climbs.

   From the description

3. 03

   Loop Course Logistics

   It is a loop: start on JFK Promenade near Blue Heron Lake Drive, finish on Bernice Rodgers Way, both inside Golden Gate Park. One base, and warm up on site.

   From the layout

4. 04

   Dress for a Cool Morning

   Race-day temperature typically sits near 9.6°C. Wear something you can shed at the start, and expect the ocean stretch to feel even cooler.

   From the temperature

5. 05

   Ballot First, Travel Second

   Entry is by ballot, so secure and confirm your place before booking flights or lodging for the February race weekend in San Francisco.

   From the entry

In San Francisco

• Where to Watch

  Golden Gate Park is the easiest spot for spectators: catch runners early near the start, around the Panhandle, and again at the finish in the park's southwest corner.

• Race Day Getting Around

  Muni buses and rail lines serve the park and the coast, but expect closures and crowds near the Great Highway. Walking or biking within the park is often quicker.

• Recover by the Water

  After the race, Ocean Beach and the Lands End paths offer flat, gentle walking, and the Inner Sunset is a handy place to eat. Fog and cool ocean air are the local character.