The Louisiana Marathon course is very flat with only about 40 feet separating the high and low points on the course. Race time temperatures are typically in the mid-50s with high humidity levels.
The course features a fast, flat, runner-friendly path through the lakes, along the river, around downtown, on the university campus and in historic neighborhoods.
The Louisiana Marathon was the 85th largest marathon in the U.S. last year and was the 95th largest in 2023.
This year 9.1% of finishers qualified for the Boston Marathon and 12.2% of runners qualified for Boston in 2024.
This gives the Louisiana Marathon the 133rd highest percentage of Boston Marathon qualifiers in the U.S. last year and the 24th highest percentage so far in 2025.
Its Course Score of 99.27 ranks it as the 156th fastest marathon course in the U.S. and the 2nd fastest course in Louisiana.
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 Louisiana Marathon a PR Score of 99.27. This PR Score ranks it as the 113th fastest marathon in the U.S. and the 1st fastest in Louisiana.
Learn more about PR Scores and Course Scores on the FAQ page.
Louisiana Marathon Elevation Chart
Max Elevation: 57 feet (17m) Min Elevation: 20 feet (6m)
This marathon was well organized. The crowd was surprisingly large and it was great to go out with a mass crowd that included the half marathoners. The trip through the LSU campus was a treat and then we went through multiple beautiful neighborhoods. The course took place in one area of the city, but the course was done well. The crowd support really added to the overall positive feel of the race. This race delivered on the need for an LA marathon.
Bonus- The downtown area of Baton Rouge was beautiful and full of life.
Race Tips
Overpass located at Mile 1 and mile 25 (prepare mentally) it's a very small bridge. There are a couple streets with rough surfaces. Be mindful and it will be no problem.
Arrive early to settle in. The porta potty lines were very long and there were people still there as the race started. Prepare accordingly.
Brian O' Nuanain's review of 2024 Louisiana Marathon.
5 /
5 Stars
Review
Parking beforehand, a breeze. Course was scenic, fast and pancake flat. Weather, perfect. Crowds, terrific. Food afterwards, delicious. My second time doing it and signing up for another. Next time, BQ!
Only complaint, didn't receive email reminders that the fateful day was approaching.
Race Tips
If you've done your training, you should expect to run a personal best.
If you arrive one hour before the start, you'll easily find parking within 10 to 15 minutes stroll of starting line.
wer's review of 2022 Louisiana Marathon.
5 /
5 Stars
Review
Very nice organization and lots of aid stations. Pretty good crowd support, too, for a smaller race. Official aid stations were smaller, but well staffed and provisioned, and in the second half (after the split) there were lots of unofficial stations staffed by kids with orange slices and smiles.
Race Tips
The bridge hill at the beginning and the end is pretty much the only hill. There are a couple other 1% slopes here and there, but really this is a flat race. Mostly partially shaded, too. Weather was perfect in 2023.
The Hampton Inn is within a couple of blocks of the start which is nice if its colder before the sun comes up. There are quite a few good restaurants in walking distance downtown.
Anna S.'s review of 2020 Louisiana Marathon.
5 /
5 Stars
Review
If you want a marathon with plenty of fun, a beautiful course, tons of course support, and the best ever post race party you HAVE to run this race!
Race Tips
It's a flat course that winds through beautiful neighborhoods of Baton Rouge. Lots of families are out with some of the best signs, food, and beverages I've ever seen. Every intersection is policed and every mile is clearly marked with a 7 foot sign.
Parking is easy. Park on 5th street, start and finish line is around the corner in 4th. Stay at Holiday Inn downtown and you can walk UK expo and start/finish
