The San Francisco Marathon might as well be a tour, it hits so many of the city's scenic hot spots. Starting at Mission and Embarcadero, the course runs along the waterfront, through Fisherman's Wharf and Fort Mason and along Crissy Field. It crosses the Golden Gate Bridge -- and back again. Then the route cuts across the Richmond, through Golden Gate Park and the Haight, and back to AT&T Park before finishing about where it started.

The event is on Sunday, August 3. If you're just trying to get around by car, the marathon website has a map showing traffic detours. Most thoroughfares will be open again by noon-thirty, but some Embarcadero closures remain in effect until 3:00pm.

For spectators, there's a spectator bus, taking riders from the Transbay Terminal to the half marathon point. But there's obviously a lot of mileage along the way where you can plant yourself for a view.

The catch: Be a morning person. Wave starts begin at 5:15am, even though you don't have to be anywhere at 5:15am to see runners throughout the course.

Cause to Run is also part of this year's marathon, with groups participating to raise funds for various causes.

More San Francisco Marathon Details:

• San Francisco Marathon Website
• San Francisco Marathon Course Map
• San Francisco Marathon Expo (Aug 1 & 2)
• Cause to Run Website

^{Photo © Owen Byrne/Flickr}