Marathon races near Poway

The Peak is a mountain trail race at Cuyamaca Peak in San Diego County, offering 50K, marathon, and half marathon distances. The longer races begin early, with the half marathon starting an hour later. This is not a gentle run: the 50K and marathon ascend over 2,200 feet in the initial 6.3 miles, reaching Cuyamaca Peak, San Diego County’s second-highest summit, before the marathon descends 2,800 feet to Sweetwater Aid Station. The marathon course has an 8.5-hour time limit, the 50K allows 10 hours, and the half marathon cutoff is 4.5 hours. All three distances commence at Camp Hual-Cu-Cuish and utilize single-track trails. The half marathon follows the same initial route as the longer races up Conejos Trail before returning to the start/finish area. Marathon runners turn around at Sweetwater Aid Station, then climb back to Cuyamaca Peak on their return, accumulating up to 10,000 feet of total elevation change. The 50K includes a five-mile loop from Sweetwater before rejoining the marathon's return path, meaning those runners pass Sweetwater twice. The event is part of the SoCal Ultra Series, its trails are maintained by Trailfit volunteers under Ken Bonus, and a local detail includes a discount on handmade ice-pocket bandanas from T’s Cool Downs, with a portion of sales benefiting Malan Syndrome Research.

Crown Point Relay Runs takes place on a morning at Crown Point Park in San Diego, offering 5K, 8K, half marathon relay, and marathon relay options. The relay races begin early, followed by the 8K and then the 5K. This schedule means the longer team events are underway within the park before the shorter races commence. Relay teams consist of 2 to 5 runners; the half marathon relay spans 5 laps and the marathon relay covers 10 laps. The course follows a paved bike path alongside the calm waters of Mission Bay. It features a flat, fast profile with broad bay views. The course suits walkers, newer runners, club runners, and teams aiming for a fast finish. However, the relay format lends a more social atmosphere than a typical road race. Teams receive a picnic area, chipped timing, shirts, medals, and overall and age-group awards. Active and veteran military or service members are eligible for a registration discount.

San Diego 50 & Trail Runs offers a trail race series in San Diego centered on a 50-mile ultra. Shorter distances accommodate marathoners, relay teams, new trail runners, parents with strollers, and children. The 50M is presented as a suitable first 50-mile race or an accessible ultra. The event also features a trail marathon, a half marathon, the Summit Chase 10M, the Valley 5M, the Stroller Trail 5K, and a 1 Mile Fun Run for children 10 and under. Raptor Ridge is a key course feature. The trail marathon crests at Raptor Ridge, and the Summit Chase 10M goes to the summit and back, with the winner taking the title. The marathon relay divides the marathon into two 13.1-mile segments, with handoffs at Piedras Parking Trail Head Parking Lot rather than using a shuttle. The Valley 5M and Stroller Trail 5K are flat courses, and the kids' mile is untimed but includes finisher medals. The series is cupless; participants must provide their own bottle, cup, or hydration pack for aid stations.

The Carlsbad Marathon, Half Marathon & 5K takes place in Carlsbad, California, during the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday weekend. Participants can select the full 26.2-mile marathon, 13.1-mile half marathon, or 3.1-mile 5K. A Double Down Challenge is available for those completing the 5K and half marathon, totaling 16.2 miles. All race distances can also be completed virtually. The courses offer ocean views for participants, with 26 staffed aid stations and ongoing entertainment. The event is presented as a boutique race, focusing on course support, volunteer assistance, and personalized service. Finishers will receive a long-sleeve technical shirt, a quarter-zip pullover, a reusable grocery bag, and a finisher medal. Registration is limited and known to sell out.