Scranton Welcomes Thousands of Runners for the 28th Annual Steamtown Marathon
The Steamtown Marathon returns to Scranton on Sunday, October 12. The popular annual race welcomes around 1,000 runners from across the country and beyond. Over its 28-year history, this USATF-certified race has drawn more than 35,000 finishers and consistently ranks among the nation’s top marathons. With nearly a quarter of participants qualifying for the Boston Marathon, Steamtown has earned recognition from Runner’s World as one of the best marathons overall and among the top 10 for first-timers.
The 26.2-mile course offers a scenic journey through 14 communities in NEPA, beginning in Forest City and finishing in Downtown Scranton. Runners wind through small towns, suburban neighborhoods, utilizing sections of the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail, where early fall foliage creates a stunning backdrop against the Lackawanna River. From rolling farmlands to historic industrial landscapes and busy downtowns, the marathon doubles as a tour of the region.
Behind the excitement of race day is a massive community effort. Nearly 2,000 volunteers support the event by staffing aid stations, assisting with registration, and helping runners along the course. The marathon also relies on generous local sponsors who help make the experience possible for athletes and spectators alike. With registration open until Thursday, October 9, there’s still time to sign up, volunteer, or get involved in one of Scranton’s most celebrated annual traditions.
Registration
Open until Thursday, October 9
Marathon Registration Cost: $125 + $8.50 online fees
Wheelchair/Handcycle Marathon Cost: $125.00 + 8.50 online fees.
Kids Race Cost (Register at Race Expo only): $10.00
All race registrants receive:
Race bib with timing chip
Steamtown Marathon t-shirt
Wheelchair / Hand Cycle Race
Sunday, October 12
Race starts at 7:59 a.m. The Marathon does not provide return transportation after the race.
Kid’s Race
Sunday, October 12
Race starts at 9 a.m. and includes age groups: 5 & under, 6-7, 8-9 and 10-11. Race distances vary by age group. All participants receive a race number, t-shirt and a medal.
Race Expo / Packet Pickup
Saturday, October 11
The Race Expo and Packet Pickup will be held at the Byron Recreation Center at the University of Scranton between 11 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Runners must present ID when picking up packet. Packet pickup will also be available at Forest City High School on race day.
Race Day
Sunday, October 12
The race begins at Forest City High School – 100 Susquehanna St., Forest City
And finishes at Courthouse Square – 209 Washington Ave., Scranton
Racers may park in Downtown Scranton and travel to the starting line via complimentary buses. Buses begin transport to the start at 5:30 a.m. and the last bus departs at 6:45 a.m.
Racers may also opt to be dropped off by friends or family at the start, however, once the race begins, many of the roads along the route are closed to traffic.
Awards Ceremony
Sunday, October 12
All finishers will be awarded a Steamtown Marathon medallion. Awards and prizes will be presented at an awards ceremony on Courthouse Square near the finish line at 12:30 p.m.
The Steamtown Marathon offers runners a unique tour of NEPA’s diverse landscapes, from rural farmlands to bustling urban areas and peaceful suburbs. Along the course, participants will pass through the region’s rich industrial heritage while enjoying early views of NEPA’s iconic fall foliage.
- The 26.2-mile course winds through 14 communities.
- It starts in Forest City and weaves its way south to the finish line in Downtown Scranton.
- The first 13 miles pass through Simpson, Carbondale, Mayfield, and Jermyn.
- The final stretch takes runners through Archbald, Olyphant, Dickson City and Dunmore.
- 4.2 miles of paved rail trail lead runners through sections of the scenic Lackawanna River Heritage Trail.
- Many welcoming neighborhoods along the marathon route provide spectators with great opportunities to catch the action and cheer on friends and family
Learn More about the 2025 Steamtown Marathon
Study the course. Check out past results. Find answers to frequently asked questions. And if you want to be a part of the action without all the running, sign up to volunteer here. Find everything else you need to know about the race at the 2025 Steamtown Marathon website.
Lace Up and Get Moving
NEPA’s race calendar is packed with exciting events—from themed 5Ks to scenic half-marathons—offering something for every runner and walker. Explore upcoming races and walks in the region to find your next challenge.
Article Updated from its Original Version Published on 09/15/2023.
Steamtown Marathon
