5 Essential Facts About The City Of Trees Marathon Boise: Your Guide To Idaho's Flattest Fall Race

Planning to run a marathon in the Pacific Northwest this fall? The City of Trees Marathon in Boise, Idaho, stands out as a hidden gem, offering a remarkably flat, fast, and intensely scenic course that is perfect for both first-time marathoners and seasoned veterans chasing a personal best. Held annually amidst the vibrant autumn colors of the "City of Trees," this race provides a refreshing alternative to larger, more crowded events, focusing instead on community and the natural beauty of the Boise River corridor. As of December 26, 2025, the excitement is already building for the next edition of this premier Idaho running event. The race is a celebration of Boise’s unique urban-meets-nature landscape, managed by The Idaho Marathon Foundation, and promises an unforgettable experience along the famed Boise River Greenbelt. This detailed guide provides the most current information, including recent results, upcoming dates, and crucial course details.

The City of Trees Marathon: Race Profile and Logistics

The City of Trees Marathon is more than just a race; it's a tour of Boise's natural heart. The event is celebrated for its incredibly flat profile, which is a significant draw for runners looking to minimize elevation gain. The full marathon is a USATF certified course, ensuring accuracy for those tracking their running performance.

Key Race Distances and Dates

The event offers multiple distances, making it accessible to runners of all levels, from elite competitors to casual 5K participants. The main event is the full 26.2-mile marathon, but the half marathon is equally popular.

• Full Marathon (26.2 Miles)
• Half Marathon (13.1 Miles)
• 10K Run
• 5K Run
• Next Race Date: Saturday, October 11, 2025
• Future Date: Saturday, October 10, 2026

The race typically takes place on a Saturday in October, perfectly timed to coincide with the peak of Boise's fall foliage. This timing ensures participants are treated to stunning views of the tree-lined streets and the Boise River Greenbelt, a central feature of the course.

Start, Finish, and Race Headquarters

The logistical hub for all race distances is conveniently located in a central Boise park. The start and finish line for the marathon, half marathon, 10K, and 5K are all situated at Parkcenter Park on Parkcenter Blvd, Boise, ID 83706. This location offers easy access for spectators and provides a great staging area for pre- and post-race activities. The Idaho Marathon Foundation meticulously plans the course to maximize runner experience and safety.

2024 Race Results: The Latest Champions

The most recent running of the City of Trees Marathon took place on Saturday, October 12, 2024. The event saw strong competition across all categories, with 187 finishers completing the full marathon distance. The flat course proved to be a fast track for the top finishers.

2024 Full Marathon Winners (October 12, 2024)

| Category | Winner's Name | Location | Chip Time | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Male Overall Winner | John Pennington | Boise, ID | 3:09:59.1 | | Female Overall Winner | Sunitha Black | Boise, ID | 3:24:46.2 | These results highlight the local talent often drawn to this community-focused race. The winning times demonstrate the challenging yet accessible nature of the course for competitive runners.

The Boise River Greenbelt Course: A Runner’s Dream

The primary reason the City of Trees Marathon has garnered such a loyal following is its exceptionally scenic and flat course. The route is almost entirely run on the Boise River Greenbelt, a paved, 25-mile network of multi-use trails that follows the river through the heart of the city.

1. The Flat, Fast Terrain

The course is famously flat, with minimal elevation gain throughout the 26.2 miles. This characteristic is a major selling point for runners who find the challenging hills of other marathons to be a deterrent. The lack of significant climbs makes it an ideal location for setting a personal record (PR) or for enjoying a long-distance run without the constant strain of steep inclines. The course's design ensures a smooth, consistent pace is achievable.

2. Fall Foliage and Scenic Views

The October race date is chosen specifically to showcase Boise's nickname, the "City of Trees." Participants run under a canopy of vibrant, changing leaves, creating a breathtaking backdrop of oranges, reds, and yellows. The route provides intimate views of the Boise River, whose water originates from the snow-capped peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains and Boise Mountains. Runners cross numerous bridges and pass through historic neighborhoods and beautiful parks, including the start/finish at Parkcenter Park.

3. Not a Boston Qualifier (BQ) Race

A common question for serious marathoners is whether the City of Trees Marathon is a Boston Marathon Qualifier. The City of Trees Marathon is currently not a Boston Marathon Qualifier (BQ) race. While this may deter a small group of runners focused solely on BQ times, it is often seen as a positive for others. The absence of BQ pressure contributes to a more relaxed and community-focused atmosphere, allowing runners to simply enjoy the scenic course and the camaraderie of the event. It remains a USATF certified course, which ensures accurate distance measurement.

Registration and Planning Your Boise Race Trip

The City of Trees Marathon offers a unique running experience that blends urban convenience with natural beauty. Early registration is always recommended, especially for the popular half marathon distance.

Registration Details and Race Insurance

Registration for the 2025 and future races is managed online. The Idaho Marathon Foundation often offers tiered pricing, so registering early provides the best value. To protect your investment, race insurance is available for purchase during the registration process, covering unforeseen circumstances that might prevent you from running.

Making the Most of Boise, Idaho

Boise, as the capital of Idaho, is a vibrant city with plenty to offer for a race weekend. Running the City of Trees Marathon provides a perfect opportunity to explore the city:

• Pre-Race Exploration: Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along other sections of the Boise Greenbelt to familiarize yourself with the area.
• Local Cuisine: Enjoy the burgeoning food scene in downtown Boise, which offers numerous carb-loading options.
• Natural Attractions: Visit the nearby Boise foothills for a hike or explore the historic Old Boise district.

The City of Trees Marathon is a must-run event for anyone seeking a fast, flat, and visually stunning fall marathon experience. The combination of a meticulously planned course, the natural beauty of the Boise River corridor, and the community feel fostered by The Idaho Marathon Foundation makes it a standout race in the Northwest running calendar. Secure your spot for the next race on October 11, 2025, and prepare to run through one of America's most beautiful tree-lined cities.

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