In 18 days · Sat, Sep 5, 2026
Don't let race day sneak up
One email during race week. That's it.
When
Saturday, September 5th, 2026
Where
4940 Canal Road NW, Washington DC
Distance
Marathon
Typical weather
65–82°F · some rain risk
See last 10 years
On this date: rain 3 of the last 10 years
2025
64–90°F
dry
2024
57–77°F
dry
2023
74–98°F
dry
2022
72–80°F
rain
2021
66–79°F
rain
2020
60–78°F
dry
2019
70–79°F
dry
2018
74–89°F
dry
2017
68–86°F
rain
2016
60–87°F
dry
Best months to race in Washington DC →
About this race
Event Overview
- Entries: We welcome 300 individual entries
- Sponsorship Options: You may also enter as a sponsor (Bronze $250, Silver $500, Gold $1000, which includes a complimentary entry) - All donations are tax-deductible
- Sponsor Contributions: Sponsors may send or deliver to me 300 copies of your menu, advertising flyer, coupon, or business card in our souvenir bags
- Events Schedule: 8:00 AM FULL MARATHON ----- 9:00 AM HALF MARATHON
Course Details
- Course Description: Flat - scenic - beautiful views of the Potomac River - tree-lined - shaded - out'n'back
- Start/Finish Location: Start and finish at Fletcher's Cove | 4940 Canal Road NW, Washington DC
- Certification: USATF certified course DC09005RT | Certificate | Color Map | B&W Map | PDF | GMAP
- Elevation: Highest point is 44m above sea level, lowest point is 12m above sea level
Race Day Experience
- Scenic Views: Enjoy a lovely day on the C&O Canal Towpath!
- Historic Displays: See displays about the historic C&O Canal before & after the race
Parking Information
- Parking Limitations: Parking is limited at Fletcher's Cove, and we must leave spaces open for the general public, as it's a National Park and open to the public even during races
- Off-Site Options: Thus we want as many participants as possible to park off-site, so that we leave some parking spaces available at Fletcher's Cove for the general public. Off-site parking options:
- Nearby Locations: The River School entrance on Reservoir Road, W Street, Bending Lane, or Hutchins Place off Reservoir Road
- Palisades Library: Palisades Library, 4901 V St NW, Washington, DC 20007
Transportation Options
- Taxi Service: We offer round-trip Red Top Cab rides from our host hotel Le Meridien to Fletcher's Cove departing at 7:00 AM on race day for only $10.00 arriving about 7:20 AM
- Return Trip: For the return trip after you finish, see the on-site Transportation Director.
- Registration: Please register for the taxi service in advance here.
- Drop-Off Location: From westbound Canal Road, Red Top Cab drops you off at Reservoir Road, at the entrance to Fletcher's Cove
Course map
Train with a club
Run clubs near Washington to train with before race day.
See all run clubs near Washington →
Suggested Races
Organize this race?
Claim it free to manage your listing — and get it featured for free, while spots last.