Sep 21, 2026 - Things to Do

2 major Charlotte Marathon course changes for 2026

Ashley Mahoney

Image: Courtesy of Charlotte Sports Foundation

Runners can expect course changes to the Charlotte Marathon in November.

Why it matters: This will be the first year of the race under new ownership. Organizers tell Axios they expect more than 13,000 people, a record number, to participate across the marathon, half-marathon and 5K.

Catch up quick: The Charlotte Sports Foundation acquired the rights to the race in January.

Go deeper: Charlotte's marathon enters new era under new owners

What to expect: The biggest changes runners can expect will be around Miles 7–8 and Mile 24.

The course now includes an East Boulevard section and less time on Morehead Street.
On the back half, the course no longer includes a hill just before Mile 24.

What's next: The Charlotte Marathon is Nov. 14.

Check out the course maps here

Go deeper: Charlotte's running boom fuels races, run clubs and retail growth

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2 major Charlotte Marathon course changes for 2026

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