Net downhill of 5,300 feet from Guardsman Pass to the base, a significant descent
Scenic route through Big Cottonwood Canyon, showcasing Utah’s natural beauty
B.A.A. downhill indexing may apply. For 2027 Boston registration and beyond, certified courses with 1,500+ ft net downhill receive a +5:00 or +10:00 adjustment, and courses with 6,000+ ft net downhill are not eligible.
Running the REVEL Big Cottonwood Marathon offers a unique blend of scenic beauty and raw speed. The course takes you from the rugged heights of the Wasatch Range down to the bustling suburbs of Murray, UT, with sweeping views that make the altitude drop feel less daunting. The unrelenting downhill profile makes it one of the fastest marathons in the United States, drawing a crowd of runners eager to push their limits and test the gravitational pull. For those chasing a Boston qualifier, the numbers speak volumes. The course provides conditions that are not just favorable but quite extraordinary for achieving personal bests. Race day here is a celebration of speed and descent. Starting high up in the Wasatch mountains, the crisp air is invigorating as runners coast down a well-maintained road, flanked by towering cliffs and autumn foliage. The route is straightforward, primarily downhill, but maintaining control on such a long descent can test even seasoned runners. The small to medium field size allows for a more personal race experience, and the enthusiastic volunteers ensure support never falters. As part of the REVEL race series, Big Cottonwood has carved out a niche for itself in the marathon world. It is not only a great chance to achieve a fast time but also a chance to experience the warm, community feel typical of smaller races. The locals take pride in the event, and their support adds to the race's charm.
BMQR course profile: Downhill.
With an aggressive downhill start, it’s easy to get carried away in the early miles of the Big Cottonwood Marathon. Runners should focus on controlled pacing during the initial descent to save their quads. The key is to use the slope to your advantage without burning out too soon. Keeping a steady but conservative pace in the opening miles will leave enough in the tank to push hard in the flatter final stretches. Hydration stations are crucial checkpoints for recalibrating effort and maintaining form.
No elevation data was found in the course profile file.
Historical average based on 3-year data for this race date
Temp
76.4°F / 57.8°F
Conditions
Partly Cloudy
Precipitation
0.00 in
Wind
12.0 mph
Historical averages · Source: Open-Meteo · Actual conditions will vary
Typical conditions: Cool (40–60°F), ideal racing conditions. Fall conditions are typically the most reliable for marathon efforts, with cool mornings that hold through the finish for most runners.
Find accommodation for race weekend in Murray, UT.
Hotel links may earn a small commission at no cost to you.
Fast Course Briefing
One email per month. Course trends, registration deadlines, and editor-picked qualifiers.