the best northeast marathons in 2022 for philadelphia runners

Running is a sport like no other. No special venue, no equipment necessary — all runners need is themselves. An ideal sport for achieving better fitness and discipline, many joggers prefer to exercise in this fiercely independent way. However, running doesn’t have to be a solitary sport. Marathons offer runners the opportunity to compete, often in beautiful, challenging settings. 

For Philadelphia runners who’ve always dreamed of participating in a marathon, the Northeast offers many fantastic options. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry — eseo has got you covered. Keep reading to learn about the best Northeast marathons for Philly runners in 2022!

If you’ve always wanted to run a marathon, make 2022 your year! eseo will be there to support you with the best sports resources in Philadelphia and beyond. Visit us online to learn more. 

Best Pennsylvania Marathons 

If you live in Philadelphia, you already know that it’s an amazing place to play sports of all kinds. When it comes to competitive running, the whole state of Pennsylvania has something to offer. Pace yourself — there are a lot of fantastic marathons to choose from! 

Erie Marathon (Erie, PA) — This scenic marathon loops around Presque Isle State Park on Lake Erie. An ideal race to run a new personal best, the Erie Marathon’s course is extremely flat and has a total elevation change of only 250 feet. It is scheduled for September 11, 2022. 

Pittsburgh Marathon (Pittsburgh, PA) — Attracting nearly 40,000 runners and walkers every year, the Pittsburgh Marathon is a massive event you don’t want to miss! The course provides a fantastic tour of the city’s architecture, crossing three rivers along the way. The full marathon, half marathon and relay take place on May 1, 2022. 

Steamtown Marathon (Scranton, PA) — An official Boston Marathon qualifier, the Steamtown Marathon is capped at 3,000 runners and generally sells out. Although Steamtown is a fast course with a net elevation drop of 955 feet, there are plenty of uphills in the final miles. It will take place in October 2022; the day is yet to be determined. 

Philadelphia Marathon (Philadelphia, PA) — It’s not hard to understand why nearly 30,000 runners flock to the Philadelphia Marathon each year. With a flat, fast course, a historic route and many scenic views, this marathon is one of the most popular in the region. Race weekend is November 18-20, 2022. 

Best Maryland Marathons 

Ready to run out of state? Luckily, Philadelphia runners are surrounded by states with equally impressive offerings. Neighboring Maryland has at least two marathons you’ll want to check out

Baltimore Marathon (Baltimore, MD) — If you’re looking for a big marathon with crowds of spectators to cheer you on, the Baltimore Marathon is a good bet; it’s also an official Boston qualifier. Runners enjoy an entirely paved course with plenty of challenging inclines. It is scheduled for Saturday, October 15, 2022.

Potomac River Run Marathon (Carderock, MD) — Another Boston qualifier, the Potomac Marathon takes runners along a scenic river track of hard-packed trails. This low-key race has few inclines and lots of well-stocked aid stations. It’s scheduled for Sunday, May 1, 2022.  

Best Delaware Marathons

With diverse wildlife refuges, national parks and historical landmarks, Delaware brings a lot to the table. For Philly runners who want to explore neighboring states, Delaware marathons provide ample reason to make the trek. 

Coastal Delaware Running Festival (Rehoboth Beach, DE) — This Boston qualifier offers a variety of scenic landscapes, including ocean, lakes, swamps, woodlands and farmlands. It’s a flat course perfect for setting a personal best. The festival is scheduled for April 22-24, 2022.

Monster Mash Marathon (Dover, DE) — If you’re looking for a whimsical event that’s more about fun than competition, try the Monster Mash Marathon! This single-loop marathon benefits the Kent County Wounded Warrior Foundation and will take place in October 2022. 

Best New Jersey Marathons

Whatever you do, don’t discount New Jersey! Even though it’s just a quick drive from Philly, New Jersey offers unique sports experiences for athletes of all kinds, including competitive runners. 

New Jersey Marathon (Long Branch, NJ) — This Boston qualifier is a point-to-point competitive race for runners of all experience levels. The largest marathon in New Jersey, this fast, flat race is full of sea breeze and scenic ocean views. The 2022 date is yet to be announced but is expected to take place in October.  

AmeriHealth New Jersey Atlantic City Marathon (Atlantic City, NJ) — A straightforward city marathon with a fast, flat course. The AmeriHealth Marathon benefits many local charities, and its runners receive lots of on-course support and post-race swag. It is scheduled for October 16-17, 2022. 

Best New York Marathons 

For Philadelphia runners searching for an adventure, New York has it all. New York City hosts massive marathons each year that draw participants from around the world. However, some of New York’s best marathons take place far away from the big city. 

Lake Placid Marathon (Lake Placid, NY) — This challenging race takes place in Lake Placid, which hosted the 1980 Winter Olympics. Nestled in the Adirondacks, runners can enjoy stunning views from rolling asphalt roads. The marathon is scheduled for June 12, 2022. 

Sri Chimnoy Marathon (Congers, NY) — This Boston qualifier once called itself “The Self Transcendence Marathon,” and it draws spiritualists, writers, poets and musicians from all over the world. The “pancake flat” course makes a three-mile loop around Rockland Lake. It is scheduled for August 24, 2022. 

Adirondack Marathon (Schroon, NY) — A popular small-town marathon, the Adirondack Marathon has it all: scenic woods and lakeshore, a smooth paved path and excellent organization. Runners travel on a mixture of flats and long-rolling hills. It is scheduled for September 17-18, 2022. 

Uniquely New England Marathons 

Seasoned Philadelphia runners craving adventure won’t be disappointed when they explore New England. Some of the most impressive marathons take place in small New England towns with spectacular views. 

Mount Desert Island Marathon (Bar Harbor, ME) — This premier destination road race is one of the most scenic in North America. Set against the backdrop of Acadia National Park, the marathon weaves around lakes, mountains and sleepy Maine villages, as well as Somes Sound — the only fjord on the Eastern Seaboard. It is scheduled for October 16, 2022. 

Covered Bridges Half Marathon (Pomfret, VT) — This quintessentially Americana marathon takes runners on a scenic route past four iconic covered bridges in rural Vermont. An extremely popular half marathon, it is capped at 2,300 participants and sells out quickly. It is scheduled for June 5, 2022. 

No matter where you run, eseo will be there to guide you! Find the sports resources you need, when you need them. Questions? We’d love to hear from you! Contact us online.