Cape Cod Marathon

Next race

Sunday, 11 October 2026

8:00 am start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Scenic coastal road

Elevation

Rolling · 182 m gain

182 m climbing

Race profile

Overview

The Cape Cod Marathon draws approximately 1,400 finishers each October on a scenic coastal road in Falmouth, United States. Its autumn timing captures Cape scenery after summer crowds fade. The route passes sea inlets, cranberry-country roads, and breezy sections with Buzzards Bay views. Rolling terrain with moderate climbs shapes the middle miles.

Cape Cod Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.

Typical participants

Approximately 1,400 finishers

Weather

Mild and humid autumn

16–21°C · humidity 60–80%

Marathon weather guide →

Course & terrain

Cape Cod Marathon course

Course route details and elevation profile for race-week planning.

Starts and finishes at Mullen Hall School, 130 Katharine Lee Bates Road, Falmouth. The route passes sea inlets, cranberry-country roads, and breezy sections with Buzzards Bay views. Rolling terrain with moderate climbs shapes the middle miles.

Registration

Cape Cod Marathon entry requirements

The Cape Cod Marathon uses open online registration at capecodmarathon.com with no ballot or qualifying time required. Sign-up for the October race typically opens the previous year and places are allocated first-come, first-served. The full marathon routinely sells out months before race day, so early sign-up is essential.

Getting there

Cape Cod Marathon travel

Airports closest to Falmouth for flight planning and race-week travel.
Best for most flights

Cincinnati / Covington (CVG)

Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International Airport

51 km / 31 mi

Closest airport

Cincinnati (LUK)

Cincinnati Municipal Airport Lunken Field

48 km / 30 mi

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Cape Cod Marathon elevation profile?
The Cape Cod Marathon has 182 metres of total climbing and 181 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling, with 0 metres of net change from start to finish.
How long is the Cape Cod Marathon?
The Cape Cod Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Coastal course starting and finishing at Mullen Hall School, 130 Katharine Lee Bates Road, Falmouth.
What time does the Cape Cod Marathon start?
The 2026 Cape Cod Marathon starts at 8:00 am local time on Sunday, 11 October 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Where does the Cape Cod Marathon start and finish?
Starts and finishes in Falmouth near the waterfront village center. Updated each year.
When is the Cape Cod Marathon and how do I register?
Cape Cod Marathon is typically held in October. Registration opens may use a lottery or tiered entry when demand exceeds capacity.
Is the Cape Cod Marathon course flat?
The course includes rolling with moderate climbs. Study the official course profile at before setting pace targets.
What landmarks does the Cape Cod Marathon pass?
The route passes sea inlets, cranberry-country roads, and breezy sections with Buzzards Bay views.
What weather should runners expect at Cape Cod Marathon?
Usually cool and windy with marine moisture and changing fall light along the coast.

Last updated 11 October 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.

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Planning guides

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