» Updated May 3rd, 2026 by G. Martin, Race Director
The Race
The Catskills Mountain Marathon is a 26.2-mile point-to-loop road and fire-road race held annually on the second Sunday of July. It begins in the village of Phoenicia, climbs through the surrounding peaks via Slide Mountain and Panther Mountain, and descends along the Esopus Creek back to the village.
The course is challenging, with 3,840 feet of total climb and a sustained ascent between miles 8 and 14. It is suitable for experienced marathon runners with previous trail or hill-training experience.
| Date | Sunday, July 12, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Start | 6:30 AM — Main Street lot, Phoenicia, NY |
| Distance | 26.2 miles (USATF-certified) |
| Elevation | +3,840 ft / −3,840 ft |
| Cutoff | 7 hours 30 minutes |
| Entry Fee | $45 before June 1; $60 thereafter |
| Field Size | Capped at 240 runners |
Registration closed May 27 at capacity (240 runners).
See registration page for bib transfer info. Next year’s race opens March 1, 2027.
Course Overview
Runners depart Phoenicia heading west, climbing the Woodland Valley road before turning up onto the Slide Mountain fire road near mile 8. The high point of the course (approx. 2,890 ft) is reached around mile 14, after which the course descends along Esopus Creek back into the village.
Quick Links
- Detailed course description & elevation profile
- Parking, lodging, packet pickup
- Info for spectators & supporters
- Race history & past winners
- Photos from recent years
- Past year results
- Volunteer sign-up