Marathon Park is a 2.25-acre waterfront park within easy walking distance to the main Capitol Campus and downtown Olympia. The park was constructed in 1970 by placing 58,000 cubic yards of fill material next to an existing railroad berm in the north basin of Capitol Lake.

The park earned its name when Olympia won the bid to host the first-ever U.S. Women’s Olympic Marathon Trials, beating out New York City, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Kansas City, Missouri. The race took place May 12, 1984, with 236 runners on a course through Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, and county areas. Two markers are posted at Marathon Park to commemorate this historic community event. One marker tells the story of the marathon and the other lists all runners and their completion times. For more details about the 1984 marathon, visit the Olympia Trials Legacy Committee website. 

The 2001 Nisqually Earthquake damaged the park, requiring extensive reconstruction and repair of nearly all the park’s features.

Recreation

Because Marathon Park is located at the junction of two lakeside trails, it is a popular spot for walkers, runners, and birdwatchers. The park also serves as open space for recreation and is a popular spot for events such as parades, car shows, dances, family reunions, weddings, and other outdoor events.

Trees

Admire two trees planted here in commemoration of the 2004 and 2008 Olympics and the National Tree Trust.

Location

Located off of Deschutes Parkway. 

Views

Take in views of Capitol Lake, the Campus Powerhouse, downtown Olympia, Puget Sound, and the Olympic Mountains in the distance.

Parking

Free parking is available at the Marathon Park parking lot and along Deschutes Parkway.