Overview
The Rock 'n' Roll Raleigh Marathon draws approximately 2,500 finishers each April through North Carolina's capital and Research Triangle hub. The course passes the North Carolina State Capitol, NC State University, and the Oak City greenways on rolling Piedmont terrain with live music stages. April's Carolina spring and the vibrant downtown finish make it a popular Southeast marathon.
Rock n Roll Raleigh Marathon is a certified 42.195 km (26.2 mile) marathon — the standard World Athletics marathon distance.
Rock n Roll Raleigh Marathon 2027 race day
The next Rock n Roll Raleigh Marathon is scheduled for Saturday, 24 April 2027 with a 7:00 am start. The certified course covers 42.195 km (26.2 miles) with 150 m of climbing on a rolling with moderate climbs layout.
Rock n Roll Raleigh Marathon course route
The Rock n Roll Raleigh Marathon is an urban road that starts and finishes in downtown Raleigh near the Convention Center. The loop passes the State Capitol, NC State campus, and the Capital Area Greenway trails. Flatter corridors and river valleys offer the easiest miles, while the moderate climbs through hills, bridges, or bluffs are the tougher sections once fatigue builds. Spectators gather at the start-finish festival and at organised cheer zones through the city centre and along the main boulevards.
Rock n Roll Raleigh Marathon elevation profile
The Rock n Roll Raleigh Marathon course is rolling with moderate climbs over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). Runners cover 150 metres of climbing and 140 metres of descent, with a net climb of 10 metres from start to finish.
Entry requirements
For the Rock n Roll Raleigh Marathon, the race starts and finishes in downtown Raleigh near the Convention Center. Course maps at https://www.runrocknroll.com/raleigh.
Rock n Roll Raleigh Marathon course video
Race-day footage from the course to help you picture the route, crowds, and key landmarks on marathon day.
2017 Rock 'n' Roll Raleigh Marathon and 1/2 Marathon Course Spotlight
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Rock n Roll Raleigh Marathon elevation profile?
- The Rock n Roll Raleigh Marathon has 150 metres of total climbing and 140 metres of descent over 42.195 km (26.2 miles). The course is rolling with moderate climbs, with 10 metres of net climb from start to finish.
- How long is the Rock n Roll Raleigh Marathon?
- The Rock n Roll Raleigh Marathon is the standard marathon distance of 42.195 kilometres (26.2 miles), certified to World Athletics rules. Starts and finishes in downtown Raleigh near the Convention Center.
- What time does the Rock n Roll Raleigh Marathon start?
- The 2027 Rock n Roll Raleigh Marathon starts at 7:00 am local time on Saturday, 24 April 2027. Arrive early for baggage drop and corral access — official race communications on www.runrocknroll.com/raleigh confirm any last-minute schedule changes.
- Where does the Rock 'n' Roll Raleigh Marathon start?
- The race starts and finishes in downtown Raleigh near the Convention Center. Course maps at https://www.runrocknroll.com/raleigh.
- When is the Rock 'n' Roll Raleigh Marathon?
- The race is held in April, typically on the fourth Saturday. It is part of the Rock 'n' Roll series' spring calendar.
- Is the Raleigh marathon hilly?
- The Piedmont course has rolling terrain with moderate climbs through Raleigh's neighbourhoods. It is not flat but not mountainous.
- What landmarks does the Raleigh marathon pass?
- The North Carolina State Capitol, NC State University's Bell Tower, and the Oak City greenways define the Research Triangle route.
- What weather should I expect in Raleigh in April?
- April in Raleigh is mild spring weather, often 10–20 °C (50–68 °F). Dogwood and azalea blooms line parts of the course.
Last updated 18 July 2026. Edition dates and course details are reviewed regularly.
