California International Marathon 2024

The Fastest Course in the West is just around the corner! Prepare for this year's CIM!

The California International Marathon, established in 1983, was created by the Sacramento Running Association as a point-to-point course. It was designed to mimic the Boston Marathon’s layout, which has helped it gain popularity as a Boston Marathon qualifier.

This marathon consistently ranks among the top Boston Marathon qualifying events due to its fast, net-downhill course and cool December temperatures. CIM has seen record-breaking times, with several runners clocking marathon times fast enough to break course records. In 2022, U.S. runner Conner Mantz set a course record with a time of 2:07:37!

Join the runners or the cheering crowd on December 8 at the 2024 California International Marathon!

What to Expect When Attending California International Marathon 2024

Each marathon runner must wear an official bib number! The race begins at 7 a.m. near Folsom Dam, with a chilly early morning start. The first half of the course features rolling hills, giving runners challenging but varied terrain. Although the course includes some hills, it has a net downhill of about 340 feet, making it faster than other marathons!

The route winds through various suburban neighborhoods, tree-lined streets, and a few rural stretches, giving runners a mix of city and countryside surroundings. The final stretch brings runners into downtown Sacramento, where they finish in front of the iconic California State Capitol.

Expect the crowd to be full of enthusiasm. CIM draws a loyal crowd of Sacramento residents who cheer runners along the route, especially at popular viewing spots like Fair Oaks Blvd and downtown Sacramento. Bring signs and noisemakers! This will keep the runners motivated, especially in the later miles when fatigue sets in. The finish area can be crowded, so plan a specific spot to meet your runner.

The forecast predicts cool weather, with temperatures ranging from the low 40s to mid-50s Fahrenheit (about 5°C to 13°C). This is ideal for runners, but if you're there to support them, dress in layers!

Tickets

The 2024 California International Marathon is officially sold out for all entry levels—Marathon Blue Entry (Economy), Marathon Orange Entry (Standard), Gold (Premium), and Late Entries (Supporting Charity).

Security Protocols

• Security personnel will be present across all race venues to ensure everyone's safety.
• Medical teams will also be at many locations throughout the city to help those in need.
• Prohibited items include large bags or backpacks and dangerous items.

How to Get To or From the Event

For participants:

• Shuttle: CIM provides free shuttles for registered runners from various hotels and the Sacramento finish area to the Folsom start line. Shuttles are the recommended way to reach the starting point as parking is limited near the start, and roads close early.

For spectators:

• Light Rail Service: The SacRT Gold Line provides access from Folsom to downtown Sacramento. Spectators can board at various stations near popular viewing points along the course, such as Hazel, Sunrise, and Watt/Manlove. The Gold Line’s final stops are close to the Capitol, making it convenient for those wanting to watch the finish.
• Bus: Key routes with stops close to the Capitol include routes 30, 38, and 51. These buses connect to various neighborhoods in Sacramento, making them useful for those coming from areas not served by light rail.

California International Marathon 2024 Bag Policy

For runners, only clear plastic bags provided by the CIM at the expo are permitted for gear check. Runners can use these to store essentials they’d like transported from the start to the finish line.

Spectators aren't allowed to carry large bags or backpacks near the venue. There's no area to store your luggage, but don't worry!

Bounce has a solution for both marathon runners and spectators!

Bounce partners with local businesses in cities worldwide and provides secure and convenient places where you can store your belongings and enjoy your stay without carrying any weight! You can check out our website or the Bounce mobile app. Contact us, and we'll respond immediately!

California International Marathon 2024 Bag Storage

Store Your Luggage With Bounce and Enjoy the Race

It's simple. Go to our website to contact a Bounce partner or use our mobile app.

A Bounce partner will help you find the perfect location in Sacramento. For only $4.60 per day and no cancellation fee, your stuff will be safe, and you can enjoy visiting this city. Bounce also offers 24/7 support so you can relax!

How to Stow Your Bag at California International Marathon 2024 With Bounce

• Book us online: Check for the location, contact a Bounce partner, and pay online.
• Go to the agreed location: Head to your chosen spot, bring your confirmation, and drop off your luggage.
• Enjoy the marathon: Have a delightful day and create unforgettable memories!

How to Make the Most Out of California International Marathon 2024

• Study the course: Get familiar with the marathon course! This will help you hold your pace.
• Pick a good viewing location: The finish line at the Capitol is a high-energy spot for cheering, but other popular areas, like the halfway point or near Fair Oaks, are also options.
• Meet the runners at the finish line: The race ends at the California State Capitol, creating a celebratory finish line. Many runners stick around to take photos and enjoy the post-race festivities, including music and food trucks.

Come to Sacramento and enjoy this race day while Bounce takes care of your luggage! See why many describe this race as the best marathon!