Course Information

Watch and get a sneak peek at some of the highlights of the Bearathon Course.

Race Course Maps and Distances

Please note that total distances listed on MapMyRun are different than the actual race route. Mapping software, though generally accurate, is not as precise as actual race measurements. Course maps provided below are intended to provide participants with a basic understanding of the race courses, not exact distances and measurements.

GPS fitness trackers, though generally reliable are imperfect. Race course distances are physically verified but GPS fitness trackers may be adversely impacted by the hills, tree canopy overhang, buildings, and other physical barriers that impede satellite connection, resulting in variations in each runner's recorded distance on their personal devices.

The City of Waco notified Bearathon race directors in January of construction along the race course at Herring Avenue Bridge. Though the majority of the course is remaining the same as 2025, race planners identified an alternate route to utilize for the 2026 half marathon race. You can find that route below. There may be slight changes to this route between now and race day.

Half Marathon Route
Sic 'Em 6K Route

Course Restrictions and Guidelines

Pets are not allowed on the half marathon or 6K courses.
Pets that are not registered service animals per the Americans With Disabilities Act are not allowed on the field of McLane Stadium. All institutional policies apply to pets on the Baylor campus.
Registered service dogs as defined by the Americans With Disabilities Act are permitted to support runners.
Strollers are not allowed in the half marathon or 6K courses.
Race strollers/running buggies are permitted for disabled individuals.
If runners choose to listen to music during the race, one ear must remain unobstructed by listening devices. This ensures runners remain aware of surroundings and can hear clearly in case of an emergency.
Drones (UAS) are not permitted over university property unless written approval is provided by Baylor and race directors. Please see the university's UAS policy for additional information.
Runners are not permitted to receive mechanized support in reaching the finish line, such as that provided by a vehicle, a golf cart, a scooter, or a bicycle. Runners must reach the finish line entirely under their own power without assistance.
Runners must remain on the designated course throughout the entirety of the race.
Runners who arrive after the official race start will not be permitted to participate in the race, as support stations, medical assistance, and traffic management provided by law enforcement officers will not be available to ensure safety and effective course navigation.
Race organizers are permitted to decide if something is allowable or not.

Course Restroom Facilities

Restrooms will be marked throughout the course for runners. The start/finish area will also have easily accessible restrooms available to runners and spectators

Support Stations

The Bearathon features three types of support stations along the course.

Water Stations: Feature water and electrolyte drink mix. A water station will be located near each mile of the half marathon course except for mile 13.
First Aid Stations: Feature band aids, anti-chafing balm, sunscreen, etc. for minor medical issues. There are three aid stations located at mile five, nine, and at the start/finish area.
Medical Stations: Staffed by medical professionals who can address major health-related issues. Medical stations are located at the start/finish area and Lovers’ Leap in Cameron Park.

Course Markings

The route will be designated by white chalk blazes along the ground, barricades, cones and other physical markers.

Mile markers are positioned at every mile. Mile markers are verified but are still an approximation. Near each mile marker, there will be a water station supplied with sports drinks and water.

Railroad Information

This year's course requires runners to cross over railroad tracks in two locations; an active set of railroad tracks at the intersection of University Parks Dr. and Jackson Avenue, and an inactive set of tracks at the intersection of University Parks Dr. and Mary Avenue.

For security purposes, the railroad does not release detailed schedule information. Similarly, the railroad will not alter its regular train schedule for any reason. Yes, we have asked the railroad company for accommodation but they have denied those requests. As a result, while we do not expect a train to interfere with our races, the possibility does exist.

Race staff will constantly monitor the railroad tracks for incoming trains. Runners stopped by a train must wait and the race clock will continue. We apologize in advance for any inconvenience, and thank you for your cooperation as we work to execute a safe, enjoyable race for everyone.