Running Races in San Francisco
San Francisco is a runner city disguised as a tech hub. The hills are legendary, the views are unbeatable, and the race calendar runs all year. From the iconic run across the Golden Gate Bridge to races through Golden Gate Park, SF delivers scenery and challenge in equal measure. The running community here is passionate, with group runs happening every single day across the city.
Best Months
September to November, March to May
State
California
Top Race
San Francisco Marathon
Total Races
5+ featured
Major Races in San Francisco
San Francisco Marathon
Marathon/HalfCross the Golden Gate Bridge at sunrise. Worth every hill.
Bay to Breakers
12KThe wildest race in America. Costumes encouraged. A San Francisco institution since 1912.
Kaiser Permanente SF Half
Half MarathonFast winter half through Golden Gate Park.
The Giant Race
5K/10KFinish on the field at Oracle Park, home of the SF Giants.
Alcatraz Sharkfest Swim + Run
MultisportSwim from Alcatraz, then run through the Presidio. Unique.
Course Terrain
Hilly. Very hilly. Some races have 500+ feet of climbing per mile. Coastal routes offer flatter options along the Embarcadero.
Race Day Tips for San Francisco
The hills are real. Train on hills or you will suffer. There is no getting around this.
Layer up. SF mornings can be 50F with fog even in July. It often warms up by midday.
Bay to Breakers is part race, part parade. If you want to compete, start in the front corral.
Muni and BART work well for getting to race starts. Plan your transit route the night before.
Running Clubs in San Francisco
SF Road Runners
Longest running club in SF. Group runs from the Marina every weekend.
Golden Gate Running Club
Competitive club with structured workouts and race teams.
Midnight Runners SF
Evening social runs with a DJ and afterparty.
Turn Your San Francisco Runs Into a Game
Those SF hills are worth double in Motera. Every steep block you conquer becomes territory that flat city runners can only dream about.
Download Motera Free
MoteraExplore San Francisco Running Routes
Looking for where to train between races? Check out our full running guide for San Francisco with top routes, terrain info, and local tips.
Running in San Francisco GuideFrequently Asked Questions
Can you run across the Golden Gate Bridge?
Yes. The San Francisco Marathon crosses the Golden Gate Bridge and back. It is one of the most iconic race moments in the country. The bridge sidewalk is also open for running during regular hours.
What is Bay to Breakers?
Bay to Breakers is a 12K race held since 1912. It runs from the Embarcadero (the Bay) to Ocean Beach (the Breakers). It is famous for costumes, centipede teams, and a party atmosphere. Serious runners race in the front.
Is San Francisco too hilly for running?
The hills are challenging but that is what makes SF runners strong. Many races include significant elevation. Flat options exist along the Embarcadero, Crissy Field, and parts of Golden Gate Park.
When is the best weather for racing in SF?
September and October are the warmest and sunniest months in SF (Indian summer). Spring races in March and April are also good. Summer can be foggy and cool, especially in the morning.
Are there trail races near San Francisco?
Yes. The Marin Headlands, Mount Tamalpais, and Presidio all host trail races. The North Face Endurance Challenge and Marin Ultra Challenge are popular events.
