24th Annual Potomac River Run Marathon & Half
24th Potomac River Run: a flat, shaded out-and-back along the historic C&O Towpath.
Race Date
May 1, 2027
Location
Washington, DC
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, May 1, 2027
- Location
- Washington, District of Columbia
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Out & Back
- Terrain
- Trail
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The 24th Potomac River Run takes place on the historic C&O Towpath, a flat, tree-lined trail hugging the Potomac River. This out-and-back course starts and finishes at Fletcher's Cove in Washington, DC, offering runners a serene, shaded route with continuous river views. The median field of just 50 finishers—drawn from about six states—makes for an intimate, low-key atmosphere.
The race is USATF certified and notably flat, perfect for those seeking a fast time or a personal best. Runners appreciate the forgiving surface and consistent shade, while the lack of crowds and traffic means a peaceful, focused race experience. The course's scenery, with the river on one side and forest on the other, provides a pleasant backdrop for the entire distance.
Post-race, runners enjoy a small gathering at the finish area, though the event's charm lies in its simplicity. With a rich history of 24 editions and a loyal, if small, following, the Potomac River Run remains a hidden gem for half marathoners and marathoners alike.
Race-provided description
[image: Race Logo https://mc-coop.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/PRR_Logo-300x284.jpg]
24th Potomac River Marathon & Half
Saturday, May 1, 2027
Fletcher’s Cove, 4940 Canal Road, Washington DC
What is changing in 2027? (https://mc-coop.org/whats-changing-in-2027/)
REGISTER (https://endurancecui.active.com/event-reg/select-race?e=97384016)
Register early and save up to $50 or more over later registration prices!
Race Start Timing
7:30 AM – Marathon
8:30 AM – Half Marathon
Course
Race on the scenic C&O Towpath, Fletcher’s Cove, 4940 Canal Road, Washington DC. Directions to Parking can be found using Google Maps (https://www.google.com/maps/place/4940+Canal+Rd+NW,+Washington,+DC+20016/@38.9192087,-77.1044774,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x89b7b609f4d6d4b3:0xf8aa88ce5ecafe5d!8m2!3d38.9192087!4d-77.1019025!16s%2Fg%2F11bw3_1bgt?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDYwNy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)
USATF certified course DC21001RT (https://mc-coop.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/DC21001RT-Potomac-Riv
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, May 1, 2027
Start Time
11:30 AM
Start Location
Washington, DC, 20016
Course Info
Course Type
Out & Back
Terrain
trail
Scenery
Lake River, Forest
Surface
Dirt Trail
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Quality Score
4 years running
~50 finishers a year
small race — neutral
0% returning runners
4 timing sources
runners from 6 states
winner 1:31:14
typical high 75°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
56°
Afternoon (High)
75°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.2"
Precipitation
12 mph
Wind
66%
Humidity
About the Organizer
Frequently asked
When is the 24th Annual Potomac River Run Marathon & Half?
The 24th Annual Potomac River Run Marathon & Half is held on Saturday, May 1, 2027, starting at 11:30 AM.
Where does the 24th Annual Potomac River Run Marathon & Half take place?
It takes place in Washington, District of Columbia.
What distances does the 24th Annual Potomac River Run Marathon & Half offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 24th Annual Potomac River Run Marathon & Half course flat and good for a PR?
The 24th Annual Potomac River Run Marathon & Half is a ultra-flat, out & back course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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