Cape Fear Marathon
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Cape Fear Marathon & Half
The Cape Fear Marathon and Half takes place on Bald Head Island, North Carolina, on Sunday, October 18, 2026. The event is presented by Mount to Coast and organized by the Badwater ultramarathon series. The courses run entirely on the island’s car‑free, one‑lane roads with a short beach stretch around Cape Fear.
Distances include:
- 26.2 miles full marathon, three laps of the island
- 13.1 miles half marathon, one and a half laps of the island
The start line is at Old Baldy lighthouse and the finish is near the marina at the wooden bridge behind Jules Salty Grub. Full marathoners run about 2.2 miles on sand and about 24 miles on the island’s golf cart roads. There are three aid station locations along the route, including a station at Bald Head Island Conservancy and a station at the beach entry; several aid stations offer toilets. The race is cupless and requires runners to carry the Badwater race cup; carrying personal hydration is strongly recommended. Time limits are four hours for the half and seven hours for the full.
Entrants receive a tote with race items such as a bib, tri‑blend t-shirt, hat, buff, race cup, and other branded gear. Finishers receive a Cape Fear medal. Entry fees are non‑refundable and non‑transferable. Participants must arrange their own travel and ferry transport to the island. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
