Cape Fear Marathon
Bald Head Island, NC, USA • October 18, 2026
Race Day Weather
60°
73° high
Breezy
Dry
Warm start, steady pace advised
Runners will face a starting temperature of 65°F, rising to 73°F by race end. Wind will be a light headwind at 9 mph, with gusts up to 21 mph. With humidity at 56%, it is advisable for runners to start conservatively and maintain hydration throughout to manage the rising temps.
Race day forecast available in 197 days
Pre-raceRace windowPost-race
With 26.2 and 13.1-mile race options, Cape Fear Marathon and Half Marathon takes place entirely on Bald Head Island and its car-free, one-lane-wide roads, plus a short but spectacular stretch on the beach around Cape Fear herself. The start and finish are located at Old Baldy, the oldest lighthouse in North Carolina, while another main checkpoint will be located at the Bald Head Island Conservancy, our local charitable partner. Source
FAQ
When is the 2026 Cape Fear Marathon?
The 2026 Cape Fear Marathon will be held on Sunday October 18, 2026.
Is the Cape Fear Marathon a Boston Marathon Qualifier?
No, the Cape Fear Marathon is NOT a Boston Marathon qualifier.
What is the time limit for the Cape Fear Marathon?
The time limit for the Cape Fear Marathon is 7 hours.
What will the weather be like for the 2026 Cape Fear Marathon?
The forecast calls for a high of 73°F and a low of 56°F with a 0% chance of rain.
More NC Races
Eastbound Half Marathon & 5K
2026-10-31 · Moores Chapel, NC, USA
Cannonball Marathon
2026-10-17 · Greensboro, NC, USA
Bull City Race Fest
2026-10-18 · Durham, NC, USA
Charlotte Marathon
2026-11-14 · Charlotte, NC, USA
Vac and Dash Mangum Marathon
2027-01-16 · Ellerbe, NC, USA
Valentines Day Massacre Marathon
2027-02-14 · Greensboro, NC, USA