Nebo Marathon
A point-to-point marathon down Payson Canyon on the Mt. Nebo Loop, dropping about 4,561 feet with the last 16 miles almost entirely downhill.
Quick facts
- About 4,561 feet of elevation drop with the last 16 miles downhill.
- Late-summer date suits runners targeting Boston qualifying times.
- Mandatory early-morning shuttle to the canyon start, with no self-transport allowed.
- The sustained grade rewards downhill-specific training more than raw fitness.
About the Nebo Marathon
Runtastic's Nebo Marathon exists for fast times. The course falls out of the Mt. Nebo Loop high country into Payson, and the late-August date works as one of the season's last downhill shots at a Boston qualifying time. The tradeoff is a mandatory pre-dawn bus ride to a cold canyon start.
Course
From the start high on the Nebo Loop, the route follows the scenic byway down Payson Canyon with about 4,561 feet of total drop and the final 16 miles essentially all downhill. Pine forest and canyon views carry the early miles, but the grade is the real story, and quads that are not trained for sustained descent will fade long before the finish at Payson's Memorial Park.
Race-day weather
Late August brings a wide swing. The canyon start is cold enough for throwaway layers, while the finish in Payson can reach summer heat by late morning. Dry air and strong sun make fluids matter even when the temperature looks mild.
Past Nebo Marathon dates and results
| Year | Date | Status | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Saturday, August 29, 2026 | Completed | Open results |
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Nebo Marathon FAQ
When is the Nebo Marathon?
We're waiting for the finalized date for the 2027 Nebo Marathon. The most recent running was on Saturday, August 29, 2026.
Is Nebo Marathon a Boston qualifier?
Yes. Nebo Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifier. To use the result, you must run the certified full-marathon course within the qualifying window and meet the current standard for your age and gender. Meeting the standard lets you apply but does not guarantee entry, and net-downhill courses can receive a time adjustment under current B.A.A. rules. Review the Boston qualifying times and downhill-course rules, or browse upcoming Boston qualifier marathons.
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