Boston Marathon route map: Full course details, distance and road closures for 2026 race

The Boston Marathon is a time-honored annual tradition, not only for Boston, but many of the surrounding cities and towns. The race itself passes through 26 miles of Eastern Massachusetts, including eight total cities and towns. 

For those looking to catch a piece of the action, there are many opportunities to find a space and watch the runners pass through. The majority of locations are also available via public transit. 

There is a lot for locals and visitors alike to know ahead of the race's start, from road closures and detours to the best places to catch a piece of the action. 

Here's everything to know if you're in Massachusetts on Monday.

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Boston Marathon route map 2026 

The Boston Marathon route starts in Hopkinton and ends in the city of Boston itself. Along the way, the runners pass through Ashland, Framingham, Natick, Wellesley, Newton and Brookline.

This route stretches the full 26 miles of the race, with all cities and towns besides Hopkinton being accessible by Boston's MBTA public transportation system. 

Boston Athletic Association

How long is a marathon? 

A marathon is 26.2 miles. The Boston Marathon specifically stretches through eight cities and towns. 

Boston Marathon course details

This race stretches across eight towns, with Boston Athletic Association providing recommended places to watch as well as times that the runners are most likely coming through the town. The longest stretch in one town is in Newton, where runners will spend 5.42 miles of the race. 

Starting point

The marathon begins in Hopkinton, where runners will spend the first 1.9 miles of the race before moving on to Ashland.

What towns does the race pass through?

The race passes through Hopkinton, Ashland, Framingham, Natick, Wellesley, Newton, Brookline and Boston. 

Finish line

The finish line is in Boston, specifically the Back Bay neighborhood. It's located on Boylston street, near the Boston Public Library.

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Boston Marathon road closures

To maintain marathon safety, several roads will be closed at specific times on Marathon Monday. Any road that makes up the marathon, touches the marathon road or is adjacent to it will be closed. 

Below are the times which these roads will be closed in each town along the route. 

When is the Boston Marathon?

The start times vary based on which event the runners are participating in. The first group will start the route at 9:06 a.m. ET.