Set for Sunday, March 1, 2026, the Napa Valley Marathon runs point-to-point along the famous Silverado Trail from Calistoga to Napa. With stunning vineyard scenery and a net elevation drop of roughly 300 feet, it consistently ranks as one of the best Boston qualifying marathons in the nation. Whether you are chasing a BQ or just want 26 miles through wine country, here is everything you need to know.
The Course: Silverado Trail From Start to Finish
The route follows the Silverado Trail for the first 23 miles with only four turns in the entire race, all in the final four miles.
The First 6 Miles: Rolling Hills and Settling In
The race starts in Calistoga. The opening miles have the most elevation variation, with gentle rolling hills through the upper valley. The hills are manageable, but going out too fast will cost you later.
Miles 7 Through 20: Flat, Fast, and Scenic
Once past the initial rolling section, the course flattens out through the middle portion. You will run past vineyards, flowering mustard fields, and world-renowned wineries. Stay focused on pace and fueling. Aid stations are positioned roughly every two miles.
The Final 6 Miles: Cruising to the Finish
The final section turns off the Silverado Trail into residential Napa, finishing at Vintage High School. If you paced the first 20 miles well, you may feel surprisingly strong. GU gels are available at miles 13.9 and 20.8, with oranges and bananas at miles 19 and 22.4.
Race Day Logistics
With about 1,500 marathon entries, the intimate size is part of the charm, but a few logistics need planning.
Getting to the Start Line
No parking at the Calistoga start. Runners take a shuttle from the finish area (included in registration). Arrive early because Uber and Lyft are not reliable in this rural area.
Bib Pickup and the Expo
Bibs are mailed for registrations before January 26. Otherwise, pickup is at the pre-race expo. No race day pickup, no exceptions.
Cutoff Time
A strict 6-hour cutoff (13:44 pace per mile). A shuttle at mile 22.7 picks up runners who do not arrive by 12:45 p.m.
Weather and What to Wear
Early March in Napa Valley offers mild temps, low humidity, and generally clear skies.
Typical Race Day Conditions
Highs around 65°F to 70°F, lows in the low 50s. Dress for warming conditions rather than the chilly start.
Gear Recommendations
A short-sleeve moisture-wicking shirt and running shorts are the right call for most conditions. Bring a throwaway layer for the start. Arm sleeves give you the flexibility to adjust as temperatures climb.
For your feet, tall compression socks with 20-30 mmHg graduated compression provide calf support over the full distance. If the day trends warmer, ultralight compression socks offer the same support in a more breathable design. Pack recovery compression socks in your checked bag for post-race.
Race Strategy for a BQ or a PR
The Napa Valley Marathon's net downhill course and moderate weather make it one of the most PR-friendly races in the country. But you still need a plan.
Do Not Bank Time on the Downhills
A net downhill course tempts runners to go out too fast. The early rolling hills can mask the fact that you are burning through energy faster than planned. Aim for even effort through the first half and save your strongest running for miles 18 to 26.
Fuel Early and Consistently
Gel availability on the course is limited to miles 13.9 and 20.8. Carry your own fuel and start taking in carbohydrates by mile 4 to 5. Nuun Endurance Lemon Lime electrolyte drink is available at all 12 aid stations along the course.
Plan Your Trip Around the Race
Half the appeal of the Napa Valley Marathon is the destination. Wine country offers plenty to do before and after the race.
Stay somewhere close to the finish in Napa for easy shuttle access on race morning. Hotels along Highway 29 and downtown Napa put you near restaurants, tasting rooms, and the finish line. Many runners make a full weekend out of the trip, with vineyard visits and wine tasting built around the race.
Run the Silverado Trail With Confidence
The Napa Valley Marathon combines a fast, beautiful course with small-race charm and big-race quality. Whether you are here for a BQ, a first marathon, or just an unforgettable 26 miles through wine country, showing up prepared makes all the difference. CEP compression gear, built on medi's 70+ years of medical-grade expertise, supports your legs from the Calistoga start to the Napa finish and beyond. Browse the full compression sock collection and get your race day setup locked in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is the Napa Valley Marathon a Boston qualifier?
Yes. The course is USATF certified, and the net downhill profile makes it one of the most popular BQ races in the country.
Q2. How do I get to the Napa Valley Marathon start line?
Shuttle buses from the finish area transport runners to the Calistoga start. Shuttle service is included in your registration. There is no parking at the start.
Q3. What is the weather like for the Napa Valley Marathon in March?
Expect temperatures between 50°F and 70°F with low humidity. Conditions are generally mild and favorable for running, though mornings can start cool.
Q4. Is the Napa Valley Marathon good for first-time runners?
Yes. The net downhill course, pace groups ranging from 2:55 to 5:50, and the 6-hour time limit make it accessible to a wide range of runners.
Q5. Can spectators follow the race?
The Silverado Trail is accessible by car, so spectators can drive to multiple points along the course. The finish at Vintage High School has spectator-friendly viewing areas.
Q6. What is included with marathon registration?
Registration includes shuttle bus transportation, a long-sleeve technical shirt, a BOCO Gear backpack, a finisher's medal, and access to the pre-race expo.
