Austin Marathon Half Marathon & 5K

The Austin Half Marathon course is truly an adventure through the heart of the city, blending urban excitement with classic Austin charm. It all begins at 2nd & Congress Avenue, where the atmosphere is buzzing with excitement as runners head north up the iconic South Congress Avenue. This stretch is famous for its quirky businesses, colorful murals, and the endless support of cheering fans—it’s the perfect way to kick off your race! Once you’ve hit your groove, the course rewards you with a downhill stretch on South First Street, where you’ll pick up speed as you head back toward downtown. The First Street Bridge gives you a stunning view of Lady Bird Lake before you settle into a flat section along Cesar Chavez Street. By now, you’ll have reached mile 7.5, and the course starts to wind through Austin’s historic neighborhoods, where the scenery changes but the energy remains high. Approaching mile 9, you’ll need to dig in for the famous rolling hills, especially as you reach Enfield Road around mile 11. Don’t worry—the Austin crowd comes out in force here, cowbells ringing and cheers echoing through the streets, giving you that extra motivation to power through the inclines. Once you’ve conquered this part, the hardest work is done. At mile 12, marathoners and half marathoners part ways. You’ll turn south, heading toward a finish line with the Texas State Capitol standing proudly in the background. Crossing the finish at 9th & Congress is a special moment, made even better with that iconic Capitol photo waiting for you at the end. Throughout the race, nine well-placed aid stations ensure you’re never far from water, electrolytes, or an energy gel at mile 9. Add to that the live music along the route and the cheering crowds, and you’ve got a race experience that captures the vibrant spirit of Austin from start to finish.