Cape Fear Marathon
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Event overview
The Cape Fear Marathon & Half takes place on Sunday, October 18, 2026, on Bald Head Island, North Carolina. The event is organized by AdventureCORPS and hosted by Badwater, presented by Mount to Coast. Distances offered:
- 26.2 miles
- 13.1 miles
Course and logistics
Both races run entirely on Bald Head Island using its car-free, one-lane roads and a sand stretch around Cape Fear. The start line is at Old Baldy lighthouse and the finish is near the marina end of the wooden bridge behind Jules Salty Grub. Half-marathoners run one and a half laps of the island including a 0.75-mile sand section. Marathoners run three laps, with three beach circuits totaling 2.2 miles of sand and about 24 miles on island roads. The event is cupless; runners must carry the provided Badwater race cup. Carrying personal hydration such as a hand-held bottle, waist pack, or hydration pack is recommended. Time limits: 4 hours for the half and 7 hours for the full.
Aid, swag, awards, and policies
There are three aid station locations on course with water, endurance drink, gels, bars, fruit, salty snacks, electrolyte capsules, and basic supplies. Aid stations do not serve ibuprofen. Specific aid station mile markers are listed for each distance, and toilets are available at several stations and the finish. All entrants receive a tote bag with race bib, shirt, hat, buff, race cup, and other items; finishers receive a medal. Entry fees are non-refundable and non-transferable, and the route or permits may be subject to change. Participants are responsible for their own travel and ferry arrangements to Bald Head Island. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
