The Bend Marathon course takes in all that is amazing about the city, and the beauty that surrounds it. The course features many beautiful Bend City Parks, neighborhoods, and the new paved trail through the Deschutes National Forest (paralleling the Cascade Lakes Highway).
See what splits you need to run for hundreds of different marathons - adjusted for the specific terrain of each marathon, your goal time and pacing strategies.
The Bend Marathon was the 203rd largest marathon in the U.S. last year and was the 222nd largest in 2022.
Its Course Score of 94.62 ranks it as the 412th fastest marathon course in the U.S. and the 10th fastest course in Oregon.
The typical race time temperature and humidity levels are within the ideal range for optimal marathon performance. This, coupled with the Course Score, gives the Bend Marathon a PR Score of 94.62. This PR Score ranks it as the 404th fastest marathon in the U.S. and the 10th fastest in Oregon.
Learn more about PR Scores and Course Scores on the FAQ page.
Bend Marathon Elevation Chart
Max Elevation: 4065 feet (1239m) Min Elevation: 3594 feet (1095m)
2017 Was the 3rd year for it and I have to say they are off to a great start! Aid stations were plentiful and staffed by great people, the set up, timing, and directions are well laid. Since it is a small race you may have some moments where you are actually alone which was surprisingly nice.
Race Tips
It has hills, it's at altitude, you will get hit in the face with wind. I was told two years ago there was a hail storm. In short, you are not going to get your PR but you will have a nice barometer of a 'harder' marathon and for me it was a humbling experince. Will I run it again? Yes!
Big parking lot 2 blocks away from start, look at VRBO or AirBnB - this is during shoulder season so the ski area is less busy - meaning there are open reservations. Check out the breweries while here. Really easy for people to cheer you on in multiple spots during the race however be mindful of the traffic circles towards Mt Bachelor as they will end up as parking lots that day.