Potomac River Run Marathon
Potomac River Run Marathon gives D.C. runners a small Boston qualifier on the C&O Canal Towpath, with a flat gravel out-and-back from Fletcher's Cove.
Next raceSaturday, May 2, 2026
LocationWashington, District of Columbia
Boston qualifierYes
Potomac River Run Marathon quick facts
- Boston-qualifying marathon with an official USATF certification link on the race information page.
- Full marathon starts at Fletcher's Cove before the half marathon field.
- Course is mostly crushed-gravel towpath, not a conventional city-road route.
What is the Potomac River Run Marathon?
The Safety and Health Foundation's spring marathon is a long-running D.C. race with a simple C&O Canal Towpath layout and half marathon option.
Potomac River Run Marathon course route
The course starts and finishes at Fletcher's Cove, using a shaded out-and-back towpath route with almost no pavement and no major hills.
Weather for the Potomac River Run Marathon
Early May in Washington can swing from cool and damp to warm and humid. Shade helps, but hydration planning matters if the day turns warm.
Past Potomac River Run Marathon dates and results
| Year | Date | Status | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Saturday, May 2, 2026 | — | — |
Potomac River Run Marathon FAQ
When is the Potomac River Run Marathon?
The 2026 Potomac River Run Marathon is on Saturday, May 2, 2026.
How do I register for the Potomac River Run Marathon?
Registration for the 2026 Potomac River Run Marathon has not been posted yet.