2026 Dutchess County Classic
Dutchess County Classic: a flat, scenic half marathon along the Hudson on a historic rail trail.
Race Date
Sep 19, 2026
Location
Wappingers Falls, NY
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, September 19, 2026
- Location
- Wappingers Falls, New York
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
Now in its 23rd year, the Dutchess County Classic draws around 621 finishers each September to Wappingers Falls, New York, with runners traveling from roughly 20 states. About 36% of participants return year after year, a loyal following that speaks to the race's consistent quality.
The half marathon unfolds along the William R. Steinhaus Dutchess Rail Trail and across the Walkway Over the Hudson, a former railroad bridge turned pedestrian park. The course is pancake flat and fast, a PR-friendly stretch hugging the Hudson River with open sky and river views. There's no shade to speak of, but the scenic payoff is worth it—especially from the bridge, where the valley spreads out below.
The race weekend is split over two days, with the half and 10k on Sunday. The atmosphere is friendly and community-driven, organized by the Mid-Hudson Road Runners Club. Post-race, finishers enjoy refreshments and a sense of accomplishment on a course that demands nothing but a steady stride.
Race-provided description
2026 REGISTRATION IS OPEN! RACE WEEKEND: SEPTEMBER 19-20, 2026
REGISTER HERE (https://runsignup.com/Race/NY/Poughkeepsie/MHRRCDutchessCountyClassic)
RACE WEEKEND INFORMATION
The 2026 DCC Athlete Guide will be available 2 weeks prior to race weekend. You can use the 2025 DCC Athlete Guide as a reference. Plan to ARRIVE EARLY on race day! Be sure to follow our Facebook page, "MHRRC / Dutchess County Classic (https://www.facebook.com/dutchesscountyclassic)" for any last minute updates!
2025 DCC Athlete Guide (https://www.dutchesscountyclassic.org/_files/ugd/506cb0_38249febc88045b4b732f6625c3b0494.pdf)
2026 Dutchess County Classic
Similar to the last few years, this years event will be split over two days with the 1k Kids Fun Run and 5k on Saturday, September 19th on Robinson Lane in Wappingers Falls, NY and the 10k and Half-Marathon on Sunday, September 20th on the William R. Steinhaus Dutchess Rail Trail / Walkway Over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie, NY.
All courses are flat and sceni
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, September 19, 2026
Start Time
TBA
Start Location
Wappingers Falls, NY
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Lake River
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Quality Score
Standout7723 years running
~621 finishers a year
growing or steady
36% returning runners
6 photos
runners from 20 states
winner 1:08:32
typical high 75°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
56°
Afternoon (High)
75°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.1"
Precipitation
8 mph
Wind
77%
Humidity
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the 2026 Dutchess County Classic?
The 2026 Dutchess County Classic is held on Saturday, September 19, 2026.
Where does the 2026 Dutchess County Classic take place?
It takes place in Wappingers Falls, New York.
What distances does the 2026 Dutchess County Classic offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2026 Dutchess County Classic course flat and good for a PR?
The 2026 Dutchess County Classic is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
Explore More Journeys
Can't make it to Wappingers Falls? Discover other experiences that match your running style.
Search All Races
