The magnetic tape has a magnetic layer containing ferromagnetic powder and binder on a nonmagnetic support, wherein the centerline average surface roughness Ra as measured on the surface on the magnetic layer side of the magnetic tape is less than or equal to 1.8 nm, and the logarithmic decrement as determined by a pendulum viscoelasticity test on the surface on the magnetic layer side of the magnetic tape is less than or equal to 0.050.