The variety of half marathons run in Maine will keep you coming back year after year. Below are the best half marathons in Maine as rated by runners of the events.
Maine Marathon – Portland
Entering its 25th year, the Maine Marathon is organized by a non-profit group of runners from the Maine Track Club. The beauty of the course and the organization of the race have led to its being named the road race of the year by New England Runner magazine. Proceeds from the race go to fund local children’s charities. Click here to read more about the Maine Marathon.
The Course
The course is an out-and-back. It begins at Portland’s Back Cove. Runners then proceed up the coast through Falmouth to Yarmouth, before returning to finish with two flat miles along Baxter Avenue. The course is classified as moderately hilly.
Image Source: raceit.com
Reviews
“Overall, this race is well run and well marked course. Being that it was an out and back, sometimes, it can be a drag seeing the same things twice, but it turned out pretty good. Only good things about this course and I would do this one again for Maine sometime down the road.” – Ed L., Yelp Review
“[D]espite the poor weather, I really enjoyed the race. On multiple occasions while I thanked the volunteers at the water stations I received words like “No, thank you! You guys (the runners) are inspirational” “You guys are amazing” ‘Its all about you today! You can do it.’ … For that alone, this race will always have a special place in my heart” – Jeff L., Yelp Review
Mount Desert Island Marathon – Bar Harbor
There’s a reason runners rave about how scenic this race is. Mound Desert Island is a place of unmatched natural beauty, and running a marathon there is a treat that many a runner cherishes and has put on their list of courses to run. But don’t take our word for it: New England Runner magazine named the Mount Desert Island Marathon its Race of the Year for 2015.
The Course
The course begins in downtown Bar Harbor before passing through the ridge between Dorr and Champlain Mountains. The race then passes through the village of Otter Creek before proceeding to vistas of Seal Harbor and the Cranberry Isles. The halfway point is the mouth of the only fjord on the Atlantic Coast. The last 2000 meters are all downhill to the finish in the Southwest Harbor. Really, if you want to run right through the middle of a postcard, check this out:
Image Source: flicker.com
Reviews
“Definitely lives up to ‘the most scenic marathon.’ Figuratively breathtaking in an unsurpassed beauty and literally breathtaking in its challenge.” – Anthony M., Marathonguide.com Review
“[A] great race in so many ways. Top notch organization – check. Scenic course – check!. Locale with activities, restaurants, places to stay – check!” – D.S., Marathonguide.com Review
Bay of Fundy International Marathon – Lubec
This race is by no means a big event that you’ll hear a lot about in running publications. The number of runners that take part every year is small. But this race draws attention for another reason: how often do you get to run your marathon through two different countries? Here’s your chance to cross the border in the midst of your marathon. Click here for more details about the race.
The Course
The race begins on the FDR Memorial Bridge and turns around at the Head Harbor lighthouse. It’s described as a combination point-to-point and out-and-back course. while there isn’t any one significant elevation gain, the elevation map quickly makes clear that participants do a lot of climbing a near-endless series of small hills.
Image Source: bayoffundymarathon.com
Reviews
“I would definitely run this marathon again! The course beauty and the warmth of the local Lubec and Campobello Islanders made BFIM a fabulous destination marathon for our family.” – John W., Marathonguide.com Review
“If you are looking for a marathon with amazing community feel and an Amazing course, this is it! The involved. Be prepared for the hills! There are a few. I have run 31 marathons in 5 years and this might be my favorite. So much enthusiasm, very affordable lodging and a lot to see. I don’t usually re-do states, but I may bring some runner friends next year just for the course. Loved it. Awesome pottery for winners too.” – Dominic B., Marathonguide.com Review
Shipyard Maine Coast Marathon – Kennebunk
The Towpath Half Marathon is the first of three fundraising events known as the Towpath Trilogy. Its goal is to raise funds to develop and maintain a park system that follows the historic Ohio Canal.
The Course
The race’s website provides all the description you need: “It is a gorgeous point-to-point course traveling from Kennebunk High School to Sokokis Hall at the University of New England in Biddeford. It travels alongside breathtaking water views for at least five miles in Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Goose Rocks Beach and Fortunes Rocks Beach. From the elegant 19th century Sea Captain’s homes of Kennebunk during the second mile to crashing surf at Fortunes Rocks Beach in Biddeford during the 23rd mile, this course will enchant you with beauty.”
Image Source: maincoast262.com
Reviews
“This course is spectacular. Lots of beaches and ocean views. Some rolling hills the second half that must be considered when pacing first half. The finish area was great! Very nice shoot to run through the last 0.2 miles and finish on campus of UNE. Organization was real good also. Can’t beat coast of Maine for after-marathon food either.” – Paul V., Marathonguide.com Review
“Small, scenic, organized – a great race!” – B.T., Marathonguide.com Review