Abebe Bikila Marathon

SEP
5
2026
Run a scenic and flat USATF certified marathon or half marathon along the tree lined C&O Canal Towpath in Washington DC. Enjoy beautiful views of the Potomac River on this shaded out and back course starting at Fletchers Cove.
Marathon Half Marathon

Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.

20th Abebe Bikila Marathon & Half

The 20th Abebe Bikila Marathon and Half takes place at Fletcher's Cove on the C&O Canal Towpath in Washington, DC. This event follows a flat, out-and-back course along the Potomac River. The route is tree-lined and shaded, with an elevation ranging from 12 meters to 44 meters above sea level. The course is USATF certified (DC09005RT).

The event offers two main race distances:

  • Full Marathon
  • Half Marathon

Registration is limited to 300 individual entries. Participants can also enter as sponsors at various levels, which include a complimentary entry and the opportunity to include promotional materials in souvenir bags.

The start and finish lines are located at Fletcher's Cove. Because this is a National Park open to the public, on-site parking is limited. The organizers recommend using off-site parking at nearby locations such as the River School entrance on Reservoir Road, Palisades Library, Our Lady of Victory School, or the CVS on MacArthur Boulevard. Additionally, a round-trip shuttle service via taxi is available for a fee from Le Meridien Hotel in Arlington, Virginia. Participants can view historical displays about the C&O Canal at the site before and after the race. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Marathon
Full Marathon
Half Marathon
Half Marathon
Add Event
Help us complete the calendar!
  • Distance is at least 5 km
  • Event has a website or Facebook page
Website
Optional: Please provide your e-mail address if we may contact you.
Report a change
We will only update the data if the information is also on the website.