Death Valley Marathon

The Death Valley Marathon, set for February 7, 2026, invites runners to an unparalleled experience in the heart of Death Valley, CA. Offering marathon (26.2M), half marathon (13.1M), and 10K distances, this event distinguishes itself as one of the few road races where participants truly run below sea level, with the starting line at Furnace Creek Ranch situated near 282 feet below the ocean's surface. Embrace the rare opportunity to conquer a course that is as geographically unique as it is visually stunning.

The course itself is predominantly flat, featuring no more than 500 feet of elevation change across the entire route, with gentle rolling hills primarily in the initial and final three miles. Run entirely on paved surfaces along Highway 190, the race is an out-and-back journey, guiding you past the historic Harmony Borax Works and through the scenic Mustard Canyon. As you stride, you'll be enveloped by the stark, expansive vistas of Death Valley National Park, with panoramic views of the Cottonwoods, Blacks, Grapevines, Panamints, and Funerals mountain ranges. The desert's muted palette of browns, reds, and yellows creates a striking contrast against the clear blue skies, offering a profoundly isolating yet beautiful backdrop.

Participants can anticipate typical race day conditions in early February to be comfortably cool in the mornings, shifting to milder midday temperatures, with historical highs around 73°F and lows around 46°F. Aid stations are strategically placed throughout the course, though runners are encouraged to carry water to ensure optimal hydration in this desert environment. This smaller, intimate race, often limited to around 300 participants, promises not just a physical challenge, but a mentally fortifying experience amidst one of the world's most iconic landscapes, demanding focus and resilience from start to finish.