7 Best Road Races in Maine!
Maine is a picturesque state. Why not explore its beauty on your own two feet? Maine has some incredible running races throughout the state year-round. From the classic Maine Marathon to the free Millinocket Marathon that supports a community and everything in between, you’ll definitely find a race to lace up your running shoes.
Maine Marathon, Portland, ME
The Maine Marathon and Half Marathon is the premier fall marathon in Maine. Founded in 1979, the Maine Marathon is a popular Boston Marathon qualifier. The race is capped at 3,500 and race goody bags even contain a ticket to a Sea Dogs game the following Spring.
Beach to Beacon, Cape Elizabeth, ME
Beach to Beacon 10K race is Maine’s premier summer race that attracts the big names like local elite runner Ben True and international favorites like Meb Keflezighi and Micah Kogo. Always held the first weekend of August, this race sells out in under five minutes in March. If you want to run this famous race, you better have quick fingers!
Millinocket Marathon & Half, Millinocket, ME
The Millinocket Marathon & Half Marathon started in 2015 to help the struggling mill town of Millinocket that has been devastated by the closing of the local paper mill. The race is completely free and the only requirement is that runners support the local businesses.
Mount Desert Island Marathon, Bar Harbor, ME
Mount Desert Island is the perfect Maine getaway. It’s home to the quaint town of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. What better way to explore its coastal beauty than running 26.2 or 13.1 miles?
Mid-Winter Classic 10 Miler, Cape Elizabeth, ME
Most people would much rather sweat it out on a treadmill at the gym in February, but for the crazies out there, there is the Mid-Winter Classic 10 Miler. Bundle up and enjoy this fun race.
Sugarloaf Marathon, Carrabassett Valley, ME
The Sugarloaf Marathon and 15K is Maine’s oldest continuously run marathon attracting hundreds of runners from all over the U.S. and Canada. Despite being set in the western mountains of Maine, this Boston qualifier is a primarily downhill race.
Pat’s Pizza 5 Mile Road Race, Yarmouth, ME
The annual Pat’s Pizza 5 Mile Road Race happens every year during the popular Yarmouth Clam Festival. If you’re looking for the perfect July race, look no further than this annual Maine tradition.
Maine has hundreds of running races across the state year-round. Whether you prefer to run in the middle of a snowstorm or during the summer heat, you’ll have a race for you. Hopefully it will have lobster and beer at the finish line!
