Sat, Dec 5 · 2026Little Rock, ARSince 2013

3 Bridges Marathon

The 3 Bridges Marathon runs a multi-loop course along the Arkansas River in Little Rock, crossing three bridges on a nearly flat route that rewards runners who came to race the clock.

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3 BRIDGES · US
3 Bridges
SAT, DEC 5
2026
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Race Overview

EST. 2013

The 3 Bridges Marathon runs along the Arkansas River in Little Rock, and it does exactly what it promises: flat, fast, and honest. You start at River Mountain Park and run a multi-loop course that crosses three bridges over the river. The surface is paved, the elevation barely moves, and there's nothing tricky about the layout. It's just you and the clock.

The multi-loop format is worth knowing before you race it. Some runners love the predictability. Others find it mentally tough when they pass the finish area before they're done. Have a plan for that. The good news is the course is USATF certified and Boston qualifying, and the generous time limit means the race is open to a wide range of runners. Entry is open registration, so no lottery stress. Fees go up as race day gets closer, so register early if you're in. December in Little Rock runs cool, which suits racing. If you want a low-drama, PR-friendly course to close out the year, this one is worth the trip.

Field size
BQ rate
Boston qualifier
Time limit
8:00
Generous cutoff
Entry
Open
First-come registration
Course records
Men
2:53:04
Mike Brunette
2015
Women
3:02:46
Tia Stone
2015

The Course

339 ft total gain
Total ascent
339 ft
Total descent
345 ft
Net elevation
6 ft
Highest point
285 ft
Lowest point
226 ft
Course shape
Multi loop
Start and finish in one place

The course runs along the Arkansas River on a multi-loop layout with a negligible net drop of six feet, so you're effectively racing flat. Total gain and loss are modest and spread across the loop, meaning no single brutal climb to survive. The highest and lowest points sit within a narrow band, so elevation changes are gradual rather than sharp. Pacing is straightforward: the flat profile rewards even splits, but multi-loop courses can feel mentally long in the back half. Expect a paved surface with exposure to river wind, which can work for or against you depending on direction. This course suits a controlled, steady effort from the gun.

DIFFICULTYFLATPR-FRIENDLYYES

Race-Day Weather

10-year median
Low
41°F
High
48°F
30°MARATHON-IDEAL 4560°80°
What to expect

December in Little Rock runs cool, and that's mostly good news for racing. You're looking at a chilly start, so bring a throwaway layer for the corral. The midday high rarely climbs far, so you won't be battling heat in the back half. Wind off the river can be a factor on the exposed stretches, and it can shift between loops. Overall, the conditions tend to favor a fast day more than they fight you.

Entry

OPEN

Registration is open to ages 16+. Fees are $120 through November 6, $140 through December 3, and $160 for late registration at packet pickup. Non-refundable but transferrable via RunSignUp for a $20 fee.

Register on RunSignup

From the Community

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3 Bridges Marathon - Little Rock, AR
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