Potomac River Run Marathon (October)

Potomac River Run Marathon (October) 2026 Course Analysis

Potomac River Run Marathon (October) is a full marathon held in Washington, United States of America, scheduled for Saturday 17 October 2026. The course is run on road surface with 67m of total elevation gain, reaching a maximum altitude of 35m above sea level. For registration and full race details, visit the official Potomac River Run Marathon (October) website.

Elevation Profile

This is a very flat course with only 67m of total elevation gain across the full distance. The course ranges from 11m to 35m above sea level — a 24m elevation range that makes it one of the flatter races available. Runners targeting a personal best will appreciate the minimal climbing.

Expected Race Day Weather

Based on historical weather data for October, the expected race day conditions are as follows. Near-ideal running temperatures are expected, ranging from 5°C to 12°C. This temperature range is widely considered optimal for marathon performance, allowing efficient heat dissipation without cold-related issues. There is a high chance of rain (95%). Runners should prepare for wet conditions, including appropriate footwear and clothing choices.

Surface Type: Road

Potomac River Run Marathon (October) is run on road surfaces, which provide the fastest and most predictable conditions for marathon running. Road courses allow for consistent pacing and are typically the best choice for runners targeting a personal best time.

How Difficult Is Potomac River Run Marathon (October)?

Our difficulty rating for Potomac River Run Marathon (October) is calculated using a model that combines elevation gain, temperature impact, and surface type. Use the difficulty calculator above to enter your target finish time and see exactly how many minutes this course would add or subtract compared to a perfectly flat, cool, road-based marathon. Faster runners and slower runners are affected differently by the same course conditions, so the difficulty is personalised to your pace.

Looking for an easier marathon or a tougher challenge? You can also compare Potomac River Run Marathon (October) against other marathons to find the right race for your goals.