Charlotte Marathon

CharlotteNorth CarolinaUnited States

Next race

Saturday, 14 November 2026

7:20 am start

Distance

42.195 km / 26.2 mi

Urban road

Elevation

Rolling · 150 m gain

150 m climbing

Race profile

Overview

The Charlotte Marathon draws approximately 2,700 finishers each November on an urban road in Charlotte, United States. It is North Carolina's oldest marathon and remains Charlotte's signature long-distance road race. The marathon and half marathon start at 525 S Tryon Street in Uptown, finish near 4th and Mint Streets in Uptown, and wind through Myers Park, Dilworth, South End, and other central neighborhoods. Rolling terrain with moderate climbs shapes the middle miles.

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

Typical participants: Approximately 2,700 finishers

Weather: Cool to mild and humid autumn
7–16°C · humidity 50–97%
Marathon weather guide →

Course records: Men: 2:23:50 — Adam Jones (2021)Women: 2:45:04 — Megan Hepp (2007)

Course & terrain

Charlotte Marathon course

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

The marathon and half marathon start at 525 S Tryon Street in Uptown Charlotte and finish near 4th and Mint Streets in Uptown. The route winds through Myers Park, Dilworth, South End, and other central neighborhoods before the final stretch back into Uptown. Rolling terrain with moderate climbs shapes the middle miles.

Registration

Charlotte Marathon entry requirements

The Charlotte Marathon uses open online registration on the official website with no ballot or qualifying time required. Sign-up for the November race typically opens in November of the year before and closes the day before race day unless it sells out first. Places are allocated first-come, first-served. Tiered pricing increases closer to race day, and charity bibs are available through partner organisations when general entry closes.

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Charlotte Marathon elevation profile?: The Charlotte Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
How long is the Charlotte Marathon?: The Charlotte Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts at 525 S Tryon Street in Uptown Charlotte and finishes near 4th and Mint Streets in Uptown.
What time does the Charlotte Marathon start?: The 2026 Charlotte Marathon starts at 7:20 am local time on Saturday, 14 November 2026. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
Where does the Charlotte Marathon start and finish?: The marathon and half marathon start at 525 S Tryon Street in Uptown Charlotte and finish near 4th and Mint Streets in Uptown. Updated each year.
When is the Charlotte Marathon and how do I register?: Charlotte Marathon is typically held in November. Open registration on the official website opens in November of the year before, closes the day before race day unless it sells out first, and fills on a first-come, first-served basis.
Is the Charlotte Marathon course flat?: The course includes rolling with moderate climbs. Study the official course profile before setting pace targets.
What landmarks does the Charlotte Marathon pass?: The route winds through Myers Park, Dilworth, South End, and other central Charlotte neighborhoods before the final climb back into Uptown.
What weather should runners expect at Charlotte Marathon?: Usually cool to mild and humid autumn conditions, with morning temperatures often in single digits to mid-teens Celsius.

If you see something that looks out of date, please send us a note. Last reviewed 11 November 2026.

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