Adirondack Marathon 2025

• Scenic course loops around Schroon Lake; starts on Main Street, Schroon.
• Early Bird Start offers extra time; non-competitive with finisher’s medal.
• Includes 2-person and 4-person relays for a team experience.
• Complimentary buses transport runners from Schroon to race start.
• Nine aid stations on course; finish area offers refreshments.

The Adirondack Marathon offers a truly picturesque running experience in the charming town of Schroon Lake, New York. Catering to a smaller field of 500 runners, this race is celebrated for its exceptional scenic loop around Schroon Lake, starting on Main Street (Route 9) and providing breathtaking views throughout the course. Parts of the marathon feature rolling or flat terrains, with miles 13-18 being particularly flat along the east shore, and include challenging short, steep hills and gentle inclines, making it a perfect blend of tests for marathoners. Additionally, the race is a USATF-certified course, with numerous aid stations enhancing the experience by offering water and sports drinks approximately every two miles, and more frequently in the latter miles, ensuring participants remain well-supported. The race includes an Early Bird Start option at 7:00 am for those needing extra time, adding a unique, accommodating feature for runners and walkers alike. Beyond the marathon, the Adirondack Marathon Distance Festival spans an entire weekend, featuring various other events such as a Half Marathon, 2-Person Relay, 4-Person Relay, 5K, 10K, and a Kids Fun Run, fostering a family-friendly festival atmosphere. The combination of its serene, scenic route, community-based support, and a variety of events to participate in, makes the Adirondack Marathon not only a race but a leisurely retreat into the beauty of New York’s nature, ideal for avid runners and families seeking a memorable experience.

Expect temperatures between 50-70°F (10-21°C) with a moderate chance of rain during late September in Schroon Lake for the Adirondack Marathon. Mornings start cool, warming up by early afternoon, making it ideal for runners. Stay prepared for possible rain showers.

The Adirondack Marathon offers runners an exhilarating journey through the stunning landscapes of Schroon Lake, New York, each September. Starting on Main Street and concluding at the picturesque Town Beach on Leland Avenue, this 26.2-mile course is both a visual treat and a test of endurance.

The race kicks off with a flat stretch along Route 9 and Alder Meadow Road, but don't get too comfortable. By mile 3.5, the course climbs nearly 300 feet, reaching an elevation of 1,100 feet. As you navigate East Shore Drive, you're rewarded with breathtaking Adirondack Mountain views and a gentle descent to 900 feet between miles 6 and 8. The challenge resumes with a steady ascent from miles 8 to 11, offering panoramic views of Schroon Lake.

Key landmarks include the charming village of Adirondack and the hamlet of Pottersville, where the course rejoins Route 9. The varying terrain, with its combination of flat sections and demanding hills, ensures a dynamic running experience. With an overall elevation gain of over 1,500 feet, this marathon is as challenging as it is beautiful, living up to its reputation as "The most beautiful 26 miles 385 yards you will ever run."

Visiting Schroon Lake, New York, for the Adirondack Marathon offers travelers a chance to experience a unique blend of natural beauty and local charm. Nestled in the heart of the Adirondacks, Schroon Lake is a serene destination with plenty to explore beyond the race itself.

The lake is a year-round attraction, perfect for boating, swimming, and fishing in warmer months, and snowmobiling or ice fishing in the winter. Take a stroll down Main Street to browse quaint shops, restaurants, and antique stores. For a touch of adventure, visit the Natural Stone Bridge & Caves, a stunning geological wonder.

Cultural highlights abound with the Seagle Festival offering musical performances, while the Schroon Lake Arts Council hosts live music at the historic Bandstand and the 1874 Boathouse Theatre. For a deeper dive into local history, the Schroon-North Hudson Historical Museum is a must-visit. Food enthusiasts can savor Adirondack cuisine at local eateries, and golf lovers can tee off at the 9-hole course on Hoffman Road.

A trip to Schroon Lake during marathon weekend promises more than just a race; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural splendor and vibrant community of the Adirondacks.