Why it's trending
The San Francisco Marathon is happening this weekend (July 25-26, 2026), with the main race on Sunday. Residents and visitors are searching for the route to plan travel around road closures and to find viewing spots.
The 2026 San Francisco Marathon is set for Sunday, July 26, with over 30,000 runners expected to take part. The race starts at 5:15 a.m. and follows a course that crosses the Golden Gate Bridge to Fort Baker and back, according to organizers and local news reports.
Road closures will begin at 9 p.m. Saturday and remain in effect until 3 p.m. Sunday, the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) announced. The closures affect streets along the race route, including parts of the Embarcadero, Fisherman's Wharf, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Muni services will be rerouted or adjusted.
The marathon weekend also includes other races: a 5K and an ultra marathon on Saturday (8 a.m. and 10:15 p.m., respectively), and two half-marathons (6:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m.), a 10K (7:15 a.m.), and a 5K (9 a.m.) on Sunday. The SFMTA said it is prepared to handle the event, noting that 'public transit is the most affordable and reliable choice.'
About 70% of runners are from the Bay Area, the organization says. The marathon is known for its scenic but challenging hilly course, making it a premier West Coast event.
Timeline
- 5K Race
The first race of the weekend takes place.
- Road Closures Begin
Street closures go into effect for the marathon.
- Ultra Marathon Start
The ultra marathon begins.
- Full Marathon Start
Main marathon starts with over 30,000 runners.
- First Half-Marathon
Half-marathon starts.
- 10K Start
10K race begins.
- Second Half-Marathon
Another half-marathon starts.
- 5K Start
Final 5K race of the weekend.
- Road Closures End
All road closures are lifted.
Questions people ask
What is the route of the San Francisco Marathon?
The full marathon starts near the Embarcadero, goes through Fisherman's Wharf, crosses the Golden Gate Bridge to Fort Baker in Marin County, and returns across the bridge to finish near the Ferry Building.
When are the road closures for the SF Marathon?
Road closures begin at 9 p.m. on Saturday, July 25, and last until 3 p.m. on Sunday, July 26, according to the SFMTA.
Are there other races besides the marathon?
Yes, the weekend includes a 5K, 10K, two half-marathons, and an ultra marathon on various days and times.
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