The Columbia Marathon experience in 2025 offers runners a lively and welcoming atmosphere, with multiple race options, scenic courses like Harbison State Forest, and a vibrant local running community. Expect a mix of city streets and natural trails, excellent organization, and post-race celebrations, with several major events and traditions featured throughout the year.
Major Events and Dates
Midland Mountain Trail Series Marathon & Half: Takes place November 22, 2025, at Harbison State Forest. The full marathon is a two-lap trail course through scenic fall foliage, and there’s a welcoming, family-friendly, Thanksgiving-themed atmosphere. Participants are treated to a classic Southern meal at the finish.
Governor’s Cup Road Race: The region’s most prestigious running event since 1973, held April 11-12, 2025. Takes place in downtown Columbia with distances ranging from one mile and 5K up to the half marathon. The course highlights the historic and governmental heart of South Carolina.
Course Features and Atmosphere
The trail marathon at Harbison State Forest features rolling hills, streams, and beautiful autumn colors, offering both scenic views and a moderate challenge for runners of all levels.
The Governor’s Cup urban courses emphasize Columbia’s historic downtown, the SC State House, and well-supported streets, making it accessible to runners and spectators alike.
Expect cheerful volunteer support, well-marked paths, water stations, lively music, and robust crowd turnout in the core races.
Runner Experience and Traditions
Both major marathons offer pre-race packet pickup, morning-of support, and post-race refreshments—Harbison events finish with a Thanksgiving-style “meat-and-three” meal for a festive touch.
On-course amenities typically include timing chips, hydration stations, medical personnel, and friendly running communities.
The event calendar brings together both competitive runners and those out for the experience, with a family-friendly, inclusive vibe.
Registration, parking, and detailed course info are available on each marathon’s respective website. Some events, like the Governor’s Cup, discourage dogs and strollers for safety but allow them with restrictions.
What to Bring and Prepare For
Early registration is often rewarded with discounts, so signing up in advance is recommended.
Plan for variable South Carolina weather—spring races can be warm and humid; late fall events may be cool and ideal for running.
Many Columbia races encourage community spirit, costumes at themed runs, and group participation.
Participants in the Columbia Marathon scene in 2025 can expect a dynamic schedule of races, Southern hospitality, scenic urban and wooded routes, and a strong sense of community support.
SOURCES
[1](https://findarace.com/us/events/midland-mountain-trail-series-26-2-13-1)
[2](https://www.columbiascsports.com/governors-cup-road-race)
[3](https://runsignup.com/Race/SC/Columbia/TheGovernorsCup)
[4](https://strictlyrunning.com/images/25_GovCupParticipantGuide.pdf)
[5](https://raceraves.com/south-carolina-races-reviews/columbia/)
