The 2026 C&O Canal 100 takes place on April 25–26, 2026, starting and finishing at Camp Manidokan, located at 1600 Harpers Ferry Rd in Knoxville, Maryland, United States. Participants will run along the historic C&O Canal towpath, a nearly flat, scenic trail that offers a highly accessible course for both first-time 100-mile runners and seasoned ultramarathon veterans. For late April in Knoxville, Maryland, participants can expect mild spring weather, with average highs in the mid-60s°F (around 18°C) and lows in the mid-40s°F (around 7°C); conditions are generally favorable but can be variable, so runners should prepare for potential rain or cool mornings. The event features a 30-hour cutoff, electronic timing with live tracking via Ultralive, full-service aid stations, and the opportunity for all finishers under 30 hours to earn a Western States 100 qualifying ticket for 2027.
What is the event name and date?
→The event is the 2026 C&O Canal 100, scheduled for April 25–26, 2026.
Where is the event located?
→The start and finish are at Camp Manidokan, 1600 Harpers Ferry Rd, Knoxville, Maryland, USA.
What is the course overview?
→The course runs along the historic C&O Canal towpath, which is almost entirely flat and scenic, making it highly accessible for runners of all experience levels.
What distances are available for this event?
→100-mile race on the flat towpath terrain.
What is the race cutoff time?
→The cutoff is 30 hours.
Is this event a Western States Qualifier?
→Yes, all finishers under 30 hours earn a 2027 Western States 100 qualifying ticket.
How is electronic timing handled?
→Timing is provided by Ultralive tracking at all aid stations (cell service dependent), allowing live splits for crew and family.
What type of aid stations are available?
→All aid stations are full-service.
Where can drop bags be placed?
→Drop bags are permitted at Brunswick AS and Manidokan AS only.
What is included with registration?
→Registration includes a C&O Canal 100 race shirt, a BOCO running hat, and a reusable cup.
→All finishers receive a belt buckle.
→A post-race meal of Chipotle is included at the finish line (no extra tickets for friends/family).
What optional gear is available for purchase?
→Optional purchase items include the Patagonia Houdini Windbreaker Jacket and/or the Patagonia Nano-Air Light Hybrid Jacket, which are great for crew and pacers.
Are there volunteer opportunities?
→Volunteers who complete 12+ hours are eligible for credit toward the 2027 race.
→2025 volunteers applying for 2026 credit can use this Google Form ↗.
→Volunteer credit details are available at Cocanal100 ↗.
