The Roanoke Canal 5k

Race Overview

The Roanoke Canal 5k is a trail race that follows the Roanoke Canal, which was built in 1823. Help us celebrate the fascinating history of the trail! A Half Mile Fun Walk will be set up as well. Money raised at the event will go towards replacing the batteau exhibit at the Roanoke Canal Museum. Batteaux were boats specifically designed to haul cargo up and down narrow canals in the 1800s. We have two replicas on site that are in need of replacement. Authentic batteau replicas are custom made and expensive to acquire. Proceeds from this race will go towards other fundraising efforts to replace the aging batteaux.

Date and Location

• Date: September 19, 2026
• Location: 100 Oakwood Ave, Roanoke Rapids, NC
• Race URL: The Roanoke Canal 5k

Registration Fees/Dates

• 5k Registration: Starts at $30, increasing to $40 on race day.
• Half Mile Fun Walk: $10
• Registration Deadline: Register by September 1st for guaranteed t-shirt size.
• Packet Pickup: Race day registration will be at 9:00 a.m. on Race Day at 100 Oakwood Avenue.

Awards/Categories

• Awards: Top 3 Overall M/F.
• Categories: Youth (17 and under), 18-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+

New Theme Prize

We want to really add some brightness to the run this year! We are encouraging participants to show up wearing neon clothing. This can be shirts/shorts, headbands, hats, or any other creative ways you can think of to incorporate neon into your race day style. Anyone who participates in the color theme for either event will be entered into a raffle for a special prize!

Course

The 5k will take place on the Roanoke Canal Trail. The natural surface trail is generally flat with a few hills. As runners travel back in time along the historic trail, they will pass over several culverts that were installed during construction of the canal in the 1820's. Runners will also pass by the large bulkhead that diverted water into the canal during the years it was used to generate electricity for the local mills. The Half Mile Fun Walk will loop through Roanoke Rapids Day Use Park.

There will be a one hour course limit for the event.

Local Information

Coming in from out of town? Check out www.visithalifax.com for information on local activities for the whole family!