C&O Canal 100

The C&O Canal 100 is a premier endurance event scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2026, starting at Camp Manidokan in Knoxville, Maryland. The race is widely regarded as an ideal venue for both first-time centurions and veterans seeking personal bests due to its low elevation profile and smooth terrain. The course is designed as a series of loops on the historic C&O Canal towpath: one initial 40-mile loop followed by two 30-mile loops. Runners remain in close proximity to the Potomac River and the Appalachian Mountains throughout the duration of the event, providing a scenic and flat backdrop for the 100-mile journey. Additionally, the race serves as a qualifying event for the 2027 Western States Endurance Run.

Knoxville is an unincorporated community located in Frederick and Washington counties, Maryland, situated along the northern bank of the Potomac River. Geographically, the C&O Canal National Historical Park follows the route of the old 184.5-mile canal that operated in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The towpath consists of crushed stone and dirt, which remains relatively level, though it can become muddy following spring rain. In late April, the regional climate typically features average highs of 19°C (66°F) and lows of 7°C (45°F). The proximity to the river can lead to cool, damp mornings and high humidity as the day progresses, impacting hydration and pacing strategies.

Logistical support for the race is extensive, with approximately seven aid stations per loop, many of which are visited multiple times due to the loop configuration. These stations are known for being well-stocked and supported by a highly-regarded volunteer staff. The race spans the area between Antietam and Brunswick, MD, utilizing the flat infrastructure of the canal to facilitate fast times. Registration remains open until April 17, 2026, though a waitlist is often implemented as the field limit is reached. Finishers are celebrated for completing the historic towpath journey, which combines a test of physical stamina with the natural beauty of the Potomac Valley.