2026 Erie Marathon
Erie Marathon: A flat, fast half marathon along Lake Erie.
Expected Race Date
~Sep 2026
Date not yet announced — this is when the race usually runs.
Location
Erie, PA
Quick facts
- Date
- around September 2026 (expected)
- Location
- Erie, Pennsylvania
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Erie Marathon, hosted by the Erie Runners Club, takes runners on a flat, fast course along the shores of Lake Erie on Presque Isle State Park. With a median field of about 975 finishers and runners hailing from 24 states, this race has a loyal following—18% return year after year. The out-and-back loop starts and finishes at Beach 1 Pavilion, offering stunning lake views and a pancake-flat profile that makes it a PR magnet.
Race day is low-key and community-focused. Parking is at Waldameer Park, a 0.6-mile walk to the start, and spectators must stay off roadways. Aid stations with water and lemon-lime Gatorade are spaced every mile, with porta-potties nearby. There are no food vendors, so runners and spectators bring their own supplies. The finish line returns to the same pavilion, where runners can celebrate their achievement with a clear view of the lake.
First run in 1999 and last held in 2014, the Erie Marathon may be a hidden gem for those seeking a no-frills, well-organized half marathon. The flat course and scenic lake setting make it ideal for first-timers and seasoned racers alike, offering a quiet, personal experience far from the crowds of bigger events.
Race-provided description
THERE WILL BE NO REFUNDS, DEFERRALS OR TRANSFERS. NO EMAILS WILL BE SENT UNTIL RACE WEEK. Many answers to questions are on our website, eriemarathon.net. Due to our park permit all parking will be at Waldameer Park and all will need to walk the .6 miles to the start and after the race. We will have water stops with water and lemon lime Gatorade. They will be spaced about a mile apart and will also have a porta-potty near each. Please be aware that all spectators must be able to walk to the race from Waldameer parking and at no point can they be on any roadway. If they are on any roadway they will be fined by the park. There are no food vendors or drink machines at the park, spectators must bring in anything they will need. Location – Everything happens at the Erie Runners Club Beach 1 Pavilion on Presque Isle State Park. This location will be the start and finish for the marathon. All race participants must park at Waldameer or the Ridge Center and walk down the hill. It doesn’t get much flatter with l…
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Lake River, Park
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Quality Score
Standout7012 years running
~975 finishers a year
shrinking
18% returning runners
limited extras
runners from 24 states
winner 1:15:52
typical high 73°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
60°
Afternoon (High)
73°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.1"
Precipitation
11 mph
Wind
76%
Humidity
Frequently asked
When is the 2026 Erie Marathon?
The 2026 Erie Marathon hasn't announced its next date yet, but it typically takes place around September 2026 (expected).
Where does the 2026 Erie Marathon take place?
It takes place in Erie, Pennsylvania.
What distances does the 2026 Erie Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2026 Erie Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The 2026 Erie Marathon is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
Explore More Journeys
Can't make it to Erie? Discover other experiences that match your running style.
Search All Races
