The 2025 Austin Marathon Half Marathon Course Guide
Half as long, twice as weird?
Note: This guide is based on a GPX file created from an interpretation of the official course map. The official course distance is 13.1 miles, which is the shortest possible route while staying within the course boundaries. The GPX file measures the course at 13.2 miles, so distances in the guide are approximate.
Course Overview
The Austin Half Marathon embodies a vibrant blend of history, music, and the iconic “Keep Austin Weird” spirit. The race begins in the early dawn, with the first corrals setting off at 7:00 AM—just before sunrise. Expect a festive atmosphere on South Congress Avenue, where local landmarks and lively murals color the initial miles.
Much of the route features rolling terrain: an early, steady climb on South Congress, a long downhill along South 1st, and scenic flat stretches near Lady Bird Lake. In the closing miles, a notable climb propels you toward the Texas State Capitol and the half/full marathon split around Mile 12.4. With smart pacing and mental preparation, you can handle each rise and roll, finishing strong in Austin’s vibrant downtown.
February in Texas can offer anything from cool mornings to surprisingly warm afternoons. Historical trends point to temps in the high 50s at the start, with midday highs that can venture into the mid-70s or higher.
Key Stats
Event Date: February 16, 2025
Event Type: Road Half Marathon
Course Length: 13.1 miles
Course Type: Loop
TrailScore: 20.0
Road Half Marathon Rating: Easy
Total Ascent: 642.91 feet
Total Descent: 608.66 feet
Longest Uphill: Starting at Mile 0.65, 1.71 miles at an average grade of 1.91%
Longest Downhill: Starting at Mile 3.64, 1.86 miles at an average grade of -1.90%
Steepest Uphill: Starting at Mile 12.14, 0.22 miles at an average grade of 5.12%
Steepest Downhill: Starting at Mile 0.11, 0.21 miles at an average grade of -4.27%
Grade Distribution:
Flat: 33.6%
Minor Decline: 24.8%
Minor Incline: 23.2%
Moderate Incline: 8.8%
Moderate Decline: 7.2%
Challenging Incline: 1.6%
Challenging Decline: 0.8%
Course Briefing
Miles 0-3 (Early Climb on South Congress)
Overview
You’ll start just before sunrise, so it may still be slightly dark as you head north along South Congress Avenue. Right away, you’ll notice the gradual upward trend. Around Mile 0.65, the longest uphill of the race begins, extending for 1.71 miles. Take a measured approach here: keep your pace conservative to tackle the climb without overtaxing your legs.
Key Challenges
Steady Ascent: The 1.71-mile section of continuous uphill can drain energy if you push too hard too soon.
Pre-Dawn Start: Visibility may be lower and temperatures cooler, so stay relaxed and warmed up.
Aid Stations
Mile 1 – BPN Electrolyte Hydration, Water, Medical, Restrooms
Mile 3 – BPN Electrolyte Hydration, Water, Medical, Restrooms
Points of Interest
Wonder Woman Mural (within the first half-mile) – A bright and iconic piece of local art.
South Congress Bridge – Famous for bat sightings at other times of the year, still a classic Austin landmark.
Miles 3-7 (Rolling Down onto South 1st)
Overview
After cresting the climb on Congress, you’ll transition onto South 1st Street around Mile 3.6. Here begins the longest downhill stretch of the course—1.86 miles. This is a great time to recover from the earlier climb while still keeping your form in check. Focus on maintaining a sustainable rhythm, balancing the urge to speed up with the need to conserve energy.
Key Challenges
Downhill Control: A faster downhill can strain your quads if you over-stride. Keep your steps quick and light.
Rolling Terrain: Minor declines and flat spots may break your flow. Stay flexible and adjust your pace as needed.
Aid Stations
Mile 5 – BPN Electrolyte Hydration, Water, Medical, Restrooms
Mile 7 – BPN Electrolyte Hydration, Water, Medical, Restrooms
Points of Interest
South 1st Street Murals (Miles 4-5) – Classic Austin street art brightens this stretch.
Austin Sign & Totem Pole (~Mile 5) – A fun local landmark where spectators often gather.
Miles 7-10 (Scenic Riverside & West Austin)
Overview
Approaching Mile 7, the course flattens near Lady Bird Lake and winds through scenic downtown spots. You’ll briefly follow Cesar Chavez Street, then loop toward West Austin via Veterans Drive and Lake Austin Boulevard. This is a prime section to settle into a strong, steady rhythm. Consider refueling here to be ready for the final miles.
Key Challenges
Short Moderately Inclined Sections: Slight inclines around Mile 8 and Mile 9 can catch tired legs off-guard.
Maintaining Pace: The flatter terrain is tempting for speed; keep your effort in check to avoid premature fatigue.
Aid Stations
Mile 8 – BPN Electrolyte Hydration, Water, Medical, Restrooms
Mile 9 – BPN Go Gels, BPN Electrolyte Hydration, Water, Medical, Restrooms
Mile 10 – BPN Electrolyte Hydration, Water, Medical, Restrooms
Points of Interest
Shoal Beach at Town Lake (Mile 6.5-7) – A popular waterfront spot as you curve onto Cesar Chavez.
Vietnam Memorial (~Mile 8) – A meaningful monument near Veterans Drive.
Mozart’s Area (West Austin) – Renowned coffee shops near Lake Austin Boulevard around Mile 9.
Miles 10-13.1 (Capitol Approach & Finish)
Overview
This final section includes Enfield Road and the approach to the finish near the Texas State Capitol. Watch out for a short but significant uphill around Mile 12.14, the steepest of the course. Your mental focus is critical here. You’ll see the half/full marathon split near Mile 12.4—half marathoners continue straight to the finish, where a spirited crowd awaits.
Key Challenges
Steep Uphill at Mile 12.14: A roughly 0.22-mile climb with a 5% grade demands extra determination.
Rolling Climbs and Descents: Minor ups and downs could disrupt your final surge if you’re unprepared.
Aid Stations
Mile 11 – BPN Electrolyte Hydration, Water, Medical, Restrooms
Mile 12 – BPN Electrolyte Hydration, Water, Medical, Restrooms
Points of Interest
Half/Full Split (Mile 12.4) – Half marathoners stay on course toward the finish as marathoners head on.
Texas State Capitol (Finish) – The race concludes with a view of this historic building, where excited spectators cheer you home.