Wicked Fast Marathon Poconos
A net-downhill point-to-point on the D&L Trail, dropping 680 feet from Lehigh Gorge to Lehighton on a certified course built for qualifying times.
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Firsthand runner report
A runner's take on the Wicked Fast Marathon Poconos
After the first mile or two, the runners get fairly stretched out. The aid stations are nicely spaced.
Quick facts
- About 680 feet of net drop at a consistent one percent grade.
- USATF-certified marathon course, certification PA24004DNB.
- Hard-packed rail-trail surface along the Lehigh River, not pavement.
- Point-to-point run from Lehigh Gorge State Park through Jim Thorpe to Lehighton.
About the Wicked Fast Marathon Poconos
The Poconos edition of the Wicked Fast series applies a simple formula: put runners on a hard-packed rail trail beside the Lehigh River and let a steady one percent grade do quiet work for 26 miles. The USATF-certified course is pitched squarely at Boston qualifiers and PR attempts rather than crowds or spectacle.
Course
From above Rockport in Lehigh Gorge State Park, the route follows the D&L Trail downstream past cliffs, forest, and old railroad landmarks, through Jim Thorpe, to a finish in Lehighton. The surface is firm crushed gravel rather than pavement, so footing deserves a thought even though road flats still work.
Race-day weather
Mid-September in the Poconos usually starts in the 50s and stays comfortable in the shaded gorge. Humidity can linger from summer, and the tree cover that cuts sun can also trap still air on warm days.
Past Wicked Fast Marathon Poconos dates and results
| Year | Date | Status | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Sunday, September 13, 2026 | Results available | Open results |
Your race experience
Ran the 2026 Wicked Fast Marathon Poconos?
Share what helped you on race day: the course, transport, aid stations or finish area.
Wicked Fast Marathon Poconos FAQ
When is the Wicked Fast Marathon Poconos?
We're waiting for the finalized date for the 2027 Wicked Fast Marathon Poconos. The most recent running was on Sunday, September 13, 2026.
Is Wicked Fast Marathon Poconos a Boston qualifier?
Yes. Wicked Fast Marathon Poconos 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.
Runner reports
Runner reports from the Wicked Fast Marathon Poconos
Firsthand accounts from runners who completed the race. Details reflect that edition and may change from year to year.
The course is on the Lehigh Valley Rail Trail which runs through the Lehigh Valley Gorge beside the river. The course is a slight, consistant downhill (which probably helps your time a little) with a handle of converted train bridges. After the first mile or two, the runners get fairly stretched out. The aid stations are nicely spaced. I carried my own energy gels. It is a very scenic course and I enjoyed it.
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