The Baltimore Marathon course is a bit challenging with two relatively hilly to rolling sections connected by 6 miles of flat terrain.
The course travels through the many diverse neighborhoods including the scenic Inner Harbor waterfront area, historic Federal Hill and Fells Point. The route also travels through the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore right past the penguin exhibit.
Miles 16 through 20 of the course have been compared to Boston’s "Heartbreak Hill," but runners are rewarded with a loop around Lake Montebello providing runners with some relief and flat terrain. The final 5 miles are mostly downhill. Then it is back downtown to an inspiring finish through Camden Yards ballpark, home of the Baltimore Orioles. Runners finish on Raven’s Walk in the shadows of M&T Bank Stadium, home of the Baltimore Ravens.
The Big Elk Marathon course starts by the fairground recreation and runs on the road before reaching the trail section.
The course has a variety of terrain,including single track, double track, gravel road/DNR fire roads, bridge crossing, XC field crossings, and a creek crossings.