The Ascension Seton Austin Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K returns on February 15, 2026, bringing thousands of runners through Austin’s most iconic streets, hills, and neighborhoods. With a start at Congress Avenue and Cesar Chavez and a dramatic finish near the Texas State Capitol, it remains one of the country’s most scenic urban routes, a reputation echoed by the official Austin Convention & Visitors Bureau overview.

This year’s race offers three distances—full marathon, half marathon, and 5K—making it accessible to elite runners, weekend athletes, and first-timers alike, as outlined on the main event website. The early miles climb steadily up South Congress before dropping into fast stretches along South First Street, Shoal Creek, and East Austin. Spectators and photographers can expect high‑energy views at South Congress, Lady Bird Lake, and the final sprint up historic Congress Avenue toward the Capitol, all detailed on the official course map and route info.

ESSENTIAL DETAILS

• Date: February 15, 2026 (confirmed via the RunSignup event listing)
• Start: Congress Ave & Cesar Chavez St
• Finish: Congress Ave & 9th St (Texas State Capitol backdrop, as highlighted on the EventDog overview page)
• Distances: Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K
• Terrain: Significant early elevation gain, long mid-race flats, fast late sections

INSIDER INTELLIGENCE

• The climb on South Congress in miles 1–3 is the toughest stretch. Runners should pace conservatively to avoid burning out early; official course details recommend similar strategy notes for hills and turns.

• The downhill on South First provides the best opportunity to make up time and settle into rhythm.

• Veterans Drive and Lake Austin Boulevard offer some of the race’s best natural scenery with lighter crowds.

• The long east‑side stretch on Pleasant Valley and Webberville is mentally challenging; headphones and consistent pacing help.
• The finish at the Capitol is among the most photographed in Texas—expect crowds, energy, and a final adrenaline surge, especially with the full race weekend schedule building momentum downtown.

Those planning to participate can secure their spot through the dedicated race registration portal, which includes pricing tiers, transfer options, and deferral policies.

For readers looking to pair wellness coverage with more Austin explorations, consider diving into recent stories such as Inside Zilker Park in 2026: The Insider Guide to Austin’s Most Iconic Urban Oasis, Inside Austin’s Ranger‑Led Weekend Hikes: The Insider Guide to the Most Restorative Nature Experiences You Can Still Join, or Inside Hiatus Day Spa Austin: The Insider Guide to the City’s Most Accessible Everyday Luxury Wellness Escape.

For official details, course maps, and updates, refer to the Austin Marathon’s primary sources: the main event site and the event’s active communications on Twitter/X @WeRunAustin.

Whether you're running, cheering, or photographing Austin’s biggest endurance event, this year promises iconic views, deep community spirit, and one of the most ambitious race courses in Texas.