Pocatello Marathon 2025

• Downhill Scenic Course: Net 1,550-foot drop, mostly in the first half; rural roads with minimal turns and sun exposure.
• Shuttle Requirement: Mandatory shuttle to start; no personal vehicles allowed.
• Comprehensive Aid Stations: Equipped with water, Powerade, fruits, and energy gels.
• Finish Line Celebration: Includes Marafest with showers, massages, food, and a free beer.
• Boston Qualifier: 6.5-hour time limit and rollover option available.

The Pocatello Marathon, officially known as the Portneuf Health Pocatello Marathon – Running the Gap, offers marathon enthusiasts a thrilling point-to-point downhill racing experience. The course begins at Crestview Rd. atop the Buckskin Saddle, ending charmingly within Pocatello, Idaho. This marathon's course carries the certification of USA Track & Field (USATF), allowing its times to be used as qualifying times for other prestigious races. As an event known for its engaging atmosphere spearheaded by the Pocatello Sports Committee, runners and spectators alike revel in a blend of high-energy excitement and small-town appeal. Along with the full marathon, the event weekend boasts a range of distances, including half marathon, 10K, 5K, and more, making it an inclusive festival for diverse runners. The spectacular course offers a brisk, mostly downhill journey on paved roads, ensuring a challenging yet idyllic marathon, framed by Idaho's breathtaking natural beauty. Celebrating its 25th year, the organizers extend a warm community feel, emphasizing participant experience, complete with free race photos for all participants. Runners take away not just memories of covering 26.2 remarkable miles but also the warmth of a welcoming race community, making the Pocatello Marathon a compelling choice for born adventurers and marathon newcomers seeking a friendly, memorable race setting.

Expect temperatures between 42-86°F (5-30°C) for the Pocatello Marathon in late August, with generally dry conditions and light winds. Morning starts are typically cool at around 52°F (11°C), offering clear skies and moderate humidity. Overall, it's a favorable climate for runners, with minimal precipitation.

The Pocatello Marathon offers a unique and invigorating journey from the heights of Buckskin Saddle to the welcoming finish at Ross Park in Pocatello, Idaho. This point-to-point course is predominantly downhill, boasting a dramatic descent of about 1,550 feet across its 26.2 miles. The initial half of the marathon is a rapid drop of 1,400 feet, providing runners with exhilarating speed set against the backdrop of stunning rural vistas.

Key segments of the course include a small out-and-back loop around miles 7-8 and notable hills at miles 6.5, 16.5, and 21.5 that test endurance and strategy. Starting at an elevation of approximately 6,000 feet, runners should be mindful of the thinner air, which can contribute to quicker fatigue. The course is mostly exposed, offering little shade and limited spectator presence, which means participants must be prepared for long, quiet stretches.

Regularly spaced aid stations provide essential support, with water and electrolytes to keep runners refreshed. The Pocatello Marathon is celebrated for its beautiful scenery and potential for personal bests, but it demands strategic pacing and mental fortitude to conquer its challenges.

Exploring Pocatello, Idaho, offers a blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences perfect for marathon travelers. Wander through the charming Historic Downtown Pocatello, where historic buildings house specialty shops, fine dining, and entertainment, including outdoor concerts and haunted history tours. The Portneuf Greenway provides over 13 miles of scenic walking and biking paths, ideal for a leisurely pre-marathon stretch or a relaxing post-race stroll. For winter sports enthusiasts, Pebble Creek Ski Area is just a short drive away, offering alpine skiing in the colder months.

Cultural buffs will find plenty to enjoy at Pocatello's museums and arts centers. The L.E. and Thelma E. Stephens Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of performances at Idaho State University, while the Bannock County Historical Museum and the Idaho Museum of Natural History offer insights into regional history and natural sciences. The quirky Museum of Clean provides a unique take on the concept of cleanliness across different contexts.

After a day of exploration, indulge in Pocatello’s diverse culinary scene. From Thai and Mexican cuisine to local favorites like Portneuf Valley Brewing and ButterBurr’s, the city offers flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're attending a cultural event at the Palace Playhouse or enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding trails, Pocatello promises a memorable visit beyond the marathon.