Avenue of the Giants Marathon 2025

• Scenic Course: Winds through towering old-growth redwoods on a paved, double out-and-back route in Humboldt Redwoods State Park.
• Start and Time Limit: Begins at 7:45 a.m. with a 6-hour limit; runners must reach halfway in 3 hours.
• Aid Stations: 13 stations with refreshments like Gatorade, fruits, and energy gels, spaced within 3 miles of each other.
• Packet Pickup: Available Saturday afternoon and early Sunday morning before the race.
• No Shuttle Service: Due to the rural setting, participants must arrange their own transportation.

Nestled within the breathtaking Humboldt Redwoods State Park in California, the Avenue of the Giants Marathon offers a truly unique running experience each May. This race takes you on a double out-and-back route beneath the towering redwood canopy, providing a serene and inspiring backdrop that few marathons can match.

The course begins on Bull Creek Road, winding through sharp curves and gentle hills, with regular aid stations along the way. Runners enjoy a perfect blend of shaded and open spaces, ensuring a comfortable run amid nature’s grandeur.

Celebrating over 40 years, the event exudes a genuine community feel, with its intimate size fostering personal connections and support among participants. It's a well-organized, reliable race that combines small-town charm with top-tier marathon standards.

As a Boston Marathon qualifier, it attracts competitive runners aiming for personal bests, while also offering half marathon and 10K options for various skill levels. The Avenue of the Giants Marathon is a must-run for those seeking a challenging yet rewarding race enveloped in natural beauty and a welcoming atmosphere.

Expect temperatures between 47-59°F (8-15°C) with high humidity during early May at the Avenue of the Giants Marathon in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, California. Mornings may have light winds and partly cloudy skies, with minimal precipitation likely. Runners should be ready for cool and potentially moist conditions.

Experience the Avenue of the Giants Marathon, a truly unique run through the majestic Humboldt Redwoods State Park in Northern California. This double out-and-back course unfolds entirely on paved roads, immersing runners in the breathtaking beauty of towering 300-foot old-growth redwoods.

The journey begins on a relatively flat stretch, quickly transitioning into a series of hills and curves. The first 6.5 miles feature a steady climb of 200 feet over five miles, followed by a series of shorter, rolling hills. As you hit the second out-and-back section, prepare for a significant hill just beyond the 15-mile mark, which you'll encounter again at mile 23 on your return.

Throughout the race, runners are shaded by the canopy of redwoods, maintaining cool temperatures in the morning. However, an open area around mile 15 offers a brief sunlit break, with a heavily cambered road that demands careful attention. The course's elevation changes present a challenge, and the uneven road surfaces, dotted with potholes, require vigilance.

Notably, the dense forest can interfere with GPS signals, adding an extra layer of difficulty in pace tracking. The race’s second half becomes lively with half-marathon and 10K participants joining in, adding to the dynamic atmosphere.

The Avenue of the Giants Marathon promises a challenging yet rewarding experience, where the stunning natural surroundings make every step memorable.

Visiting Humboldt Redwoods State Park for the Avenue of the Giants Marathon offers an inspiring mix of natural wonders and athletic pursuits. Located in California’s Humboldt County, the park is famed for its towering redwoods and the scenic Avenue of the Giants, a 31-mile drive that serves as the marathon route. Accommodation options include family campgrounds within the park or nearby towns like Garberville, Weott, and Myers Flat. For easy access, travelers can fly into Eureka and rent a car or take a shuttle.

Beyond the race, the park captivates with its rich redwood culture. Stop by the Humboldt Redwoods Visitor Center near Weott, where exhibits and a natural history museum provide a deep dive into the ecological and cultural significance of the trees. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy fishing and swimming in the Eel River or explore over 100 miles of hiking and biking trails, including the family-friendly Drury-Chaney Loop.

Local towns along the Avenue of the Giants, such as Weott, Myers Flat, and Miranda, offer charming shops and eateries that showcase the region’s hospitality. Consider extending your stay to camp under the stars and participate in interpretive programs that enrich your understanding of this majestic landscape. The combination of marathon excitement and the serene beauty of the redwoods promises a memorable visit.