Potomac River Run Marathon
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Potomac River Run Marathon & Half
The Potomac River Run Marathon & Half is organized by the Safety And Health Foundation with support from ACE Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Institute. The event is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026, and starts and finishes at Fletcher's Cove, 4940 Canal Road NW, Washington DC.
Distances
- 26.2 miles full marathon
- 13.1 miles half marathon
The course is USATF certified (DC21001RT). It is an out and back route on the historic C&O Canal Towpath, mostly flat and composed of crushed stone and packed dirt. The trail is almost entirely unpaved gravel except for short sections across a wooden footbridge and concrete under the I-495 Capital Beltway. Highest elevation about 44 m, lowest about 12 m. The route runs alongside the Potomac River and is tree lined and shaded.
Aid stations provide water, Gatorade, toilets, and volunteers at Fletcher's Cove and at locks along the course. Several locks and Chain Bridge locations offer spectator access and parking options; some locks are accessible only from eastbound Clara Barton Parkway.
Entry is limited to the first 350 entrants and the event accepts runners able to complete the course in under six hours. Packet pickup locations include ACE Physical Therapy, Pacers Running Store of Clarendon, and on race day at Fletcher's Cove. The event uses RFID chip timing; chips are attached to the back of the bib and must be returned after the finish. Awards include cash prizes for the full marathon overall places and commemoratives by age group for both distances. A post race medallion, refreshments, and a picnic follow the finish. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
