Ahead of Chicago Marathon 2024, Learn About Some of the Hardest Marathons Around the World

On October 13, the Windy City will welcome the Chicago Marathon 2024, one of the prestigious marathons on the World Athletics list. The spectacular location is already buzzing, with around 50,000 individuals registered for the race, which is often touted as a test of human endurance and patience. To ensure a hassle-free experience, the main sponsor, Bank of America, has launched a guiding app for participants and visitors—making it a unique offering in the long history of marathons. However, it’s important to note that not every marathon race comes with similar perks.

Rather, there are multiple who can take the toughest test on human ability. Here are a few of that kind, infamous for their exceptional nature. 

Learn about the hardest marathons in the world

As one learned individual once stated, it is not the mountain but the pebbles in the shoes that obstruct the path to success. In a marathon, rough terrain and harsh weather can play that role, and the Great Wall Marathon in China epitomizes these challenges. This marathon takes place over a 42.2-kilometer section of the Huangyaguan part of the wall, where experienced runners note that the distance consists of relentless uphill and downhill segments. The mid-30°C temperatures and slippery rocks contribute to what many consider an inhumane experience. To top it off, participants must conquer 5,164 steps and navigate frequent towers along the route. Altogether, it can feel like hell on earth. However, there are a few other marathons of this nature.

The next is the Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon. That can deliver a shockwave even to the bravest runners. This high-octane marathon kicks off at an elevation of three and a half miles above sea level, requiring competitors to embark on an 11-day trek just to reach the starting line. The next hurdle is to endure the grueling conditions and unfriendly weather as they complete the race, which stretches from the Mount Everest base camp to Namche Bazaar, nestled at the foothills of the world’s highest peak. Doesn’t that sound chilling?

Now, shifting from the icy desert, let’s turn our attention to the sandy desert. In the heart of Africa lies the Sahara Desert, which hosts the Sahara Marathon. Navigating through soft sand and protruding rocks, the routes present significant challenges. However, the harsh weather poses an even tougher test for the runners. According to data, temperatures in the region can soar to 50°C, presenting a serious threat to the athletes’ fitness. In addition to these extreme marathons, there are also several events in the USA designed to test runners’ mettle.

The toughest US Marathons to challenge the bravest of hearts

The steep and long uphills throughout the course are defining features of the hardest marathons. In that regard, the Pikes Peak Marathon in Colorado is often regarded as the toughest marathon in the USA. Over the 26.2-mile course, runners face an elevation gain and loss of 8,000 feet, presenting significant challenges. The route features sharp turns, narrow paths filled with gravel and stones, and loose ground, all compounded by a temperature gradient that varies along the way. Doesn’t that sound intimidating? In fact, the average finishing time in 2022 was a staggering 7:26:45.

The next is the Death Valley Marathon of California. Here, the entire course runs below sea level. So lack of breathable oxygen is the common constraint. Apart from that, the distance is through the Death Valley National Park. It gives the runners a stunning view. But at the same time, the diverse terrain and the silent course often impose nauseating effects on the runners. Doesn’t it sound challenging? The next one is a road marathon. 

The Blue Ridge Marathon in Roanoke, Virginia, attracts thousands of spectators each year, but only 750 runners can compete. With an elevation gain of 7,430 feet, it ranks as one of the toughest marathons in the world. The course covers a significant portion of Roanoke Mountain, presenting challenges such as harsh terrain, sharp turns, and the need to navigate downhill without getting snagged by brush. Sounds intriguing, doesn’t it? With a cutoff time of 7.5 hours, the race certainly brings its own level of intensity. So, which marathon are you planning to try? Let us know!