Seattle Ghost Marathon

NOV
28
2026
Experience a flat and fast Boston Qualifier along the scenic shores of Lake Washington. This historic Seattle event offers half marathon, marathon, and 50K distances limited to 450 participants.
Sat 28 Nov 2026
50 kilometers 26 miles 13 miles

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Event Overview

The Seattle Ghost Marathon is an established distance running event with a history dating back to 1985. Managed by the non-profit organization NW Ultras with support from the Green Lake Crew, the race takes place on the Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend. The event is limited to a total of 450 participants across all distances.

Course Details

The course follows a very flat route along the scenic shores of Lake Washington in Seattle. The marathon distance consists of two 13.1-mile loops that utilize both city streets and sidewalks. Participants begin at the Ferdinand St Boat Launch and travel south for a clockwise loop around Seward Park. The route then heads north through the Leschi neighborhood to a turnaround point just past Madrona Drive before returning to the start and finish area. Aid stations are positioned every 3.1 miles along the loop.

Distances

Participants can choose from three distinct distances:

  • 50K ultra marathon
  • 26.2 Miles marathon
  • 13.1 Miles half marathon

Participation and Regulations

The marathon distance serves as a certified Boston Marathon qualifier. Because the route includes various sidewalk sections, strollers and dogs are not permitted on the course. Race day registration services include packet pickup at the event site. Runners anticipating a finish time longer than six hours for the marathon, five hours for the half marathon, or seven hours for the 50K have the option to begin during an early start window. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

50 km
2026 Seattle Ghost 50k
26 mi
2026 Seattle Ghost Marathon
13 mi
2026 Seattle Ghost Half Marathon