Carolina Beach State Park Trail Half Marathon

Carolina Beach, United States • 3 Jan 2026

Event overview

The Carolina Beach State Park Trail Half Marathon & 5K takes place on Saturday, January 3, 2026, in Carolina Beach, NC. The event is based at American Legion Post #129, 1500 Bridge Barrier Road, Carolina Beach, NC 28428. Registration opens August 6, 2025. Participant caps are 300 for the Half Marathon and 300 for the 5K.

Distances offered

  • 13.1 miles (Half Marathon) - 2 loops; course cutoff 3.5 hours (16 minute per mile pace)
  • 3.1 miles (5K) - timed event

Course and logistics

Both courses run on single-track trails that pass along the shore, through pine forest, and through a maintained campground within Carolina Beach State Park. Course maps and parking information are provided by the organizer. Parking is available at a nearby Food Lion; participants are asked not to park behind the Food Lion or near the loading docks.

Awards, swag and extras

All finishers receive a finisher medal. Registrants who register by December 2, 2025 and attend pre-race packet pickup or the race receive a beanie hat. Awards include top 3 overall male and female and top 3 in specified age groups for each distance. Post-race provisions include snacks, Culligan water, and one beer for participants aged 21 and over. The race donates to Friends of Pleasure Island State Parks. Sponsors include Fleet Feet and local breweries. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

Race information

Half Marathon
Half Marathon
5 km
Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
Trail runs nearby

Experience a local trail race through the scenic Carolina Beach State Park followed by festivities at Good Hops Brewing. This three mile run or walk supports local schools and park preservation while offering a relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Experience a unique trail race in Hampstead featuring a 20k relay and mile challenges. Runners can tackle wooded loops individually or in teams with optional time deductions for beverage consumption at each lap.

Experience a scenic 5K trail run through Carolina Beach State Park to celebrate Great Trails State Day. Support young runners while racing past natural coastal landscapes in this inclusive community event.

A 16 hour timed event at Carolina Beach State Park where runners repeat a 4.5 mile loop through coastal forest. The course is well marked with an aid station, limited group camping, finisher patches and awards by distance.