Course Map: Boston Marathon

The Boston Marathon course is one of the most iconic and challenging routes in distance running, known for its point-to-point layout, unpredictable weather, and legendary hills.

Here’s a breakdown of the course:

Start to Mile 6 — Downhill from Hopkinton

The race begins in Hopkinton, a small town west of Boston.

The first few miles feature a steep downhill descent, which tempts runners to go out fast — often too fast.

The course passes through Ashland and then Framingham, where the terrain levels out slightly.

Mile 7 to 16 — Rolling Hills and Crowds

The route continues through Natick and into Wellesley.

At Mile 13, runners pass the famous “Scream Tunnel” outside Wellesley College, where students cheer loudly and offer high-fives and kisses.

These miles are slightly rolling but generally manageable and can be deceptive before the hills begin.

Miles 16 to 21 — The Newton Hills and Heartbreak Hill

After a sharp downhill at Mile 15, the course enters Newton, where the real challenge begins.

Runners face four hills over the next several miles, culminating in the infamous Heartbreak Hill just after Mile 20.

Though not steep by elevation standards, Heartbreak comes late in the race and tests runners’ resolve.

Miles 22 to 26.2 — Descent to Boston and Epic Finish

After Heartbreak Hill, the course flattens and descends through Brookline and into Boston.

The final stretch includes the iconic Right on Hereford, Left on Boylston, leading to a thrilling finish in front of thousands of spectators near Copley Square.