The Big Sur International Marathon

Big Sur Marathon

Hands down, one of the most beautiful places to run a race – in the world – is along the California coastline between Big Sur and Carmel. However, hands down, one of the hardest races you will ever run – in the world – is along the California coastline between Big Sur and Carmel. With an elevation gain of 520 feet in 2.2 miles (sadly, all before the halfway point in the race), the Big Sur International Marathon warms you up quickly to hill running. As if a 2.2 mile hill during the first half of the race wasn’t enough to wear you out, there are the four consecutive rises and dips between miles 12 and 24 to make you ask yourself if this was really worth it.

Of course, all you have to do is look left at pretty much any point during the race to realize that it is was WELL WORTH the torture you are going through. The 26.2 miles between Big Sur and Carmel, California are absolutely breathtaking. Blue water as far as the eye can see, decorated with colorful mountainsides, amazing cliffs and some of the most remote beaches in the state.

Runner's Heaven

There’s something mystical and magical about Big Sur. A small town nestled between the ocean and the mountains along Highway 1, Big Sur is the embodiment of serenity and beauty. Huge redwoods rise on both sides of the highway, giving the various campgrounds, parks, cottages and restaurants a rustic, secluded feel. You can’t help but feel calm and at peace with the difficult task that faces you.

You begin the race promptly at 6AM outside of Big Sur Station. For the first few miles, you can’t see the ocean. You’re surrounded by trees and mountains. (Note to self: regardless of how quickly you think you’ll warm up, bring a long sleeved shirt with you to this race and hold on to it the whole race through! Like many coastal cities, the fog can roll into Big Sur when you least expect it, taking away the sun’s warm and shepherding in a very unfortunate breeze.) The first five miles are a nice descent downhill, followed by a steady, four-mile gain of 75 feet. At some point, you turn a corner and behold the ocean before you – it’s astonishing! You feel energized and ready for the dreaded ascent to Hurricane Point that everyone has told you about. If you’re running the race alone, don’t be afraid to chat someone up for the next couple miles – it will help take your mind off of this 2 mile incline. Your prize for getting to the top of the hill? A glorious grand piano and the most refreshing sound you could hear at that moment. Hurricane Point marks 13 miles. The infamous Bixby Bridge wears the crown of 13.1.

Between 13.1 and 22 are a lot of steady ups and downs. This is where the race becomes a tad lonely, with only a few runners around you at times. The scenery remains amazing but also detached. It’s time to harness you chi and stay strong! The first hints of human life do not appear until mile 22, where you enter the Carmel Highlands and Point Lobos State Park (well worth the visit the day after the race!). With one final push up hill at mile 25, it is all “down hill” after there.

Pfeiffer Beach

A few tips: Do yourself a favor if you decide to run this race and stay in Big Sur for a few days. Drive the course, the day AFTER the marathon, to re-live the memories and really enjoy the beauty. Get some good coffee and walk around the town of Carmel. Enjoy a sunset dinner at restaurant overlooking the ocean in Big Sur and treat yourself to the greatest hamburger you’ve ever had. If time permits, ask a local how to get to Pfeifer Beach. Two miles down from Highway 1, Pfeiffer Beach is tiny but magnificent. Maybe you can take your guitar and a blanket, like I did, and revel in what you accomplished.

By Laura Traferro