Course Map

Explore the full 26.2-mile course below. You can also view it on Garmin Connect →

About the Course

The Minuteman BQ Marathon is run entirely on the Minuteman Commuter Bikeway — a dedicated, fully paved multi-use trail that winds beneath a continuous canopy of mature trees. The tree cover blocks direct sunlight and eliminates wind exposure for virtually the entire race, keeping temperatures noticeably cooler than open-road courses even as the morning progresses. With zero elevation gain (the course starts and finishes at the same point), no road crossings, and a consistent underfoot surface, conditions here are as controlled as outdoor marathon running gets.

The course is 7 loops of 6 km each, beginning and ending at Hill's Hill Park. This loop format means your family, friends, and crew can post up at the start/finish area and cheer you through every single lap — not just at the beginning and end.

The course is USATF certified (certificate #MA23005JK) and qualifies as an eligible qualifier for the Boston Marathon.

Fuel Stations

Every 6 km — once per loop — you'll pass the personal fuel station located near the start/finish line alongside the course. There is no need to slow down or swerve: the setup is designed specifically for on-the-run access.

Main table — located at the start/finish area; grab your bottle or nutrition as you pass through
Two overflow tables — positioned 20 m and 50 m ahead so you have three chances to pick up per loop; no stopping, no scrambling
What to bring — your own personal drinks, gels, chews, or any nutrition you train with; water is provided throughout the course at general water stations

Label your bottles with your last name and bib number before you arrive — it makes setup faster and ensures nothing gets mixed up at the table.

Portable Toilets

Portable toilets are available at the start/finish line area. Because the course is a loop, they are accessible every 6 km throughout the race.

Course Highlights

Zero elevation gain — same start and finish elevation; completely flat profile
Full tree canopy — shaded, wind-protected, and cool for all 26.2 miles
Dedicated paved trail — no road crossings, no traffic
7 loops of 6 km — crew and spectators see you every single lap
Personal fuel access every 6 km — three-table setup for smooth on-the-run pickup
General water stations — water available throughout the course
Portable toilets — at the start/finish, accessible every loop
Professional chip timing — with security checkpoints at Mill St. (east) and Bow St. (west) to verify all loops
USATF certified — eligible Boston Marathon qualifier

Boston Marathon Qualifying Standards

View the official 2027 BAA qualifying standards at baa.org →