Santa Clarita Marathon

Santa Clarita Marathon takes place in Santa Clarita, California, on November 15, 2026, with four distances and staggered starts: the marathon (26.2 miles) at 7:00 AM, the half marathon (13.1 miles) at 7:15 AM, the 10K (6.2 miles) at 7:30 AM, and the 5K (3.1 miles) at 7:45 AM. With the full range from 5K to marathon on one morning, it's a race weekend that a whole family or running group can share, each at their own distance.

A mid-November marathon is well placed for a fall goal: it gives you the summer and early fall for a 16 to 18-week build with a weekly long run climbing to 20 miles, and time to taper properly. It suits a first marathon as much as a Boston-qualifying attempt, provided you've done the mileage. The half is the natural target if you want a serious race without the marathon commitment, on a 12-week plan with long runs up to 11 miles. The 10K and 5K are good options for supporters who'd rather run than wait at the finish line.