Golden Gate Headlands Marathon
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Event details
The Golden Gate Headlands Marathon, Half Marathon and 10K takes place on April 4, 2026, at the Marin Headlands Visitor Center / Fort Barry area in Mill Valley, California. The start and finish are at the Historic Gunnery Range in Rodeo Valley. The event is limited to 400 participants and typically sells out. Distances offered:
- Marathon
- Half Marathon
- 10K
Registrations are non-refundable and non-transferable. Participants who did not purchase the event's refund protection may request a rollover credit (minus a fee) if they cancel by March 4, 2026.
Course and logistics
The course mixes single track hiking trails and fire roads. Runners will see panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco Bay, the Pacific Ocean and coastal hills. The marathon follows the half marathon loop twice; marathoners must check in at the finish before beginning the second loop. The route is marked with orange ribbon.
Aid stations: none on the 10K; one aid station at mile 6 for the half; aid stations at miles 6, 13 and 19 for the marathon. Runners are advised to carry water. The course cut-off is 6 hours (13:45 min/mile pace for marathoners, 27:30 min/mile pace for half marathoners, 56:15 min/mile pace for 6.4 milers). Hikers and walkers are welcome.
Athlete check-in is at the start/finish area; bibs are mailed and must be brought to check-in. Parking is on Smith Road toward Rodeo Beach with attendants directing vehicles; allow extra time to reach check-in from parking. Headphones and other audio devices are not allowed on course for safety on narrow trails with steep drop-offs. Incentives include participant T-shirts, finisher medals for full and half marathoners, and personalized award ribbons mailed to top three finishers by age group. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
