Course Details: California International Marathon

The California International Marathon (CIM) course is a point-to-point, net-downhill route renowned for its fast and scenic profile. It starts near Folsom Dam in Folsom, California, and concludes at the California State Capitol in Sacramento. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the course:

Course Features

Start Location: Folsom Dam, at an elevation of approximately 366 feet.
Finish Location: California State Capitol in downtown Sacramento, at an elevation of approximately 26 feet.
Total Distance: 26.2 miles.
Elevation Change: A gradual net downhill of about 340 feet, with rolling hills that add variety without being overly challenging.
Boston Qualifier: The course is widely recognized as a premier Boston Marathon qualifying race due to its favorable elevation profile and fast times.

Route Highlights

First Half: Rolling hills dominate the early miles, offering a mix of gentle inclines and declines that help runners establish a rhythm.
Midpoint: The course flattens out, providing long stretches of steady running through suburban neighborhoods.
Second Half: The descent becomes more gradual, making it easier to maintain pace.
Final Stretch: The course transitions to the urban environment of Sacramento, ending with a flat, scenic finish at the State Capitol.

Aid Stations

Frequency: Aid stations are located approximately every 2 miles.
Offerings: Water, electrolyte drinks, energy gels, and medical support are available to runners.

Scenic Appeal

Runners enjoy views of suburban neighborhoods, rural landscapes, and urban landmarks, culminating in the grandeur of Sacramento’s historic State Capitol.

This course is ideal for runners aiming for personal bests or marathon qualifications due to its supportive design and efficient organization.