The Care Packages at Carderock 5k, 10k, & Half is scheduled for Sunday, April 12, 2026, in Potomac, MD. Set against the natural backdrop of Carderock Park, the races take place along the historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath. These courses are renowned for being exceptionally fast and flat, providing an ideal environment for runners looking to set a personal record or for those who simply enjoy a smooth, scenic route through a protected recreation area.
| Race Category | Distance | Start Time | Course Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Half Marathon | 13.1 Miles | 7:00 AM EDT | Flat Towpath |
| Care Packages 10K | 10 km | 7:00 AM EDT | Flat Towpath |
| Care Packages 5K | 5 km | 7:00 AM EDT | Flat Towpath |
Participation and Logistics
The event is hosted within the Carderock Recreation Area. With a 7:00 AM start, the race captures the quiet morning atmosphere of the C&O Canal. The event is inclusive of all paces, and walkers are explicitly encouraged to participate. For those who cannot attend the physical event in Maryland, several virtual options are available, ranging from basic participation to tiers that include a finisher medal and shirt. Please note that the "Virtual with Medal and Shirt" registration deadline is March 31st. Volunteers are also needed to help manage the turnaround points and hydration stations along the towpath.
Registration and Fees
Online registration is currently open, with the most favorable rates available until March 30, 2026. A price increase will occur on March 31st, and final race-day registration will be offered on April 12th at the highest tier. Current pricing for the Half Marathon is $70.99, the 10K is $49.64, and the 5K is $33.63 (all fees included). For participants needing specific directions to the Carderock parking lots or information regarding the towpath surface, event contact Travis Bishop is the primary point of communication. This event provides a unique chance to experience one of the most popular trail systems in the D.C. metropolitan area.
Apr 12, 2026
Distance — 10km
Type — Running
07:00
$49.64
Apr 12, 2026
Distance — 5km
Type — Running
07:00
$33.63
Apr 12, 2026
Distance — 21km
Type — Running
07:00
$70.99
Apr 12, 2026
Distance — Virtual with Medal
Type — Running
07:00
$20.82
Apr 12, 2026
Distance — Virtual with Medal and Shirt
Type — Running
07:00
$33.63
Apr 12, 2026
Distance — Virtual without Medal/Shirt
Type — Running
07:00
$12.28
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for April in Potomac.
Learn more about the host city, Potomac.
Potomac is an unincorporated district in Montgomery County, Maryland and a suburb of Washington DC.
Read more launchWatch highlights and course previews from previous years.
Explore other exciting events happening in this same region.
location_on Potomac, Maryland, US
calendar_today Mar 29, 2026
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