The point-to-point Windermere Marathon is a fast, net downhill course with an net elevation drop of over 200 feet.
The first 7.2 miles of the marathon travels through Liberty Lake's upscale neighborhoods, passes Pavillion Parkand then connects to the Centennial Trail at the Harvard Road Trailhead. The Centennial Trail follows the Spokane River. These 19 miles to the finish are mostly a gentle downhill grade.
The downhill finish is in Downtown Spokane's Howard Street Bridge in Riverfront Park.
From the Race Organizer - The Windermere Marathon is truly a PNW gem with a fast and flat course that is known for PR's and Boston qualifying. Both the half marathon and the marathon course follow the centennial trail along the scenic Spokane River! This race is a runner favorite among beginners through elite races trying to PR.
The Windermere Marathon was the 216th largest marathon in the U.S. last year and was the 228th largest in 2022.
Last year 6.3% of finishers qualified for the Boston Marathon and 9.3% of runners qualified for Boston in 2022.
This gives the Windermere Marathon the 293rd highest percentage of Boston Marathon qualifiers in the U.S. last year and the 190th highest percentage in 2022.
Its Course Score of 99.66 ranks it as the 69th fastest marathon course in the U.S. and the 10th fastest course in Washington.
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 Windermere Marathon a PR Score of 99.66. This PR Score ranks it as the 52nd fastest marathon in the U.S. and the 9th fastest in Washington.
Learn more about PR Scores and Course Scores on the FAQ page.
Windermere Marathon Elevation Chart
Max Elevation: 2151 feet (655m) Min Elevation: 1872 feet (570m)
This is definitely a fast course, but early June in Spokane can be HOT. It was this year, and that cost me 10 minutes minimum in my time. Also the organizers didn't have ice, or anything old at the aid stations, just warm water or Ultima. The only way I'd do it again would be as a last minute registration after the forecast was out.
The course is relatively flat and the volunteers were absolutely awesome. The race was run mostly well, but.... the high the day of the marathon was 92 degrees F (a scorcher for the NW that early in the season) and there was no ice on the course. The gummy bears were a melted mess, and the Ultima and water were lukewarm by the later miles. I passed by so many people who were passed out or near heat exhaustion. Only run this if you do well with heat and can do without the ice to cool you off. Also, aid stations 2+ miles apart, even in the last 10K felt like forever in the parts of the course with no shade. Be prepared to either be self sustaining, tough it out, or have someone on course helping you if you overheat easily.
Race Tips
Obviously, the temperature every year will be different, but with this course not trying to negative split if you are prone to heat exhaustion would be wise. If it's a hot day, the longer you are on blacktop with no shade, the worse for the wear you'll be. Waiting until later miles to rev up to full speed may mean that you are covering ground faster as the temperatures are rising.
This is a great and scenic course that mostly runs along the river with a few miles through residential neighborhoods. There are parts of the course that are not shaded and the temperature can get quite high (mid 90s) so be prepared with sunscreen and carry water if race day temps look high. That said, the aid stations are fully stocked and the course is well supported. It is a great event and I would recommend it to anyone.
3.8 Stars from 4 Reviews
