SUMMARY. Flat and fast!  Over 18 miles on the full and 7 miles of the half will be on the American Tobacco Trail.

Be it the serene beauty of North Carolina's trails or the surge of determination that pushes you past mile 20, the Tobacco Road Marathon is an experience that lingers in the hearts of those who conquer it. Set against the peaceful backdrop of the American Tobacco Trail, this race offers runners not just a physical challenge but a journey of personal triumph. For some, it's the flat, fast course that beckons them toward a Boston Marathon qualification, while for others, it's the camaraderie formed along the way and the thrill of crossing that finish line.

From the early miles on smooth paved roads to the quiet serenity of the crushed granite trail, each runner's story is uniquely shaped by the miles they log. Some will recall the gentle inclines that test their resolve, while others will forever remember the downhill finish that carried them toward their goal. The atmosphere is electric with community spirit, from the encouraging volunteers at aid stations to the ringing of the PR bell at the finish line.

Every runner, whether chasing a personal best or simply embracing the joy of the journey, leaves this North Carolina race with memories that speak to the universal pride of completing a marathon. Here, on the Tobacco Road, new friendships are formed, personal records are set, and stories are created - stories that inspire others to lace up and take on the challenge for themselves.

Tobacco Road Marathon

Post-Race Review/ Results

The 2025 Tobacco Road Marathon was successfully held on Sunday, March 16.

Tobacco Road Marathon runners pound the pavement for NC charities, Helene survivors

Pre-Race Review/ Lineup

The 2025 Tobacco Road Marathon will be held this Sunday, March 16.

ABC11 Together: Tobacco Road Marathon

The 2024 Tobacco Road Marathon was successfully held on Sunday, March 17, raising over 1.3 million dollars in local charities.

Runners pound the pavement in the 2024 Tobacco Road Marathon that benefit charities

John Crews won the 2022 Tobacco Road Marathon in 2:20:37 while Amanda Lopiccolo won the women's race in 2:54:13.

Tobacco Road marathon gets back on trail; top finishers all from the Triangle

Two-way runner traffic on narrow country trail

Good course, well organized small marathon

One of the best small marathons out there

Great small event with top-notch race director

Course great and race director outstanding

Awesome event, well organized, well supported

Great Event! Lots of Crushed Limestone Path

Great Race, flat course, no traffic, no spectators

Would have really liked this on a cooler day

Great trail marathon through gently rolling hills

Nice Attempt, but Need to Work Out Some Kinks

Great course and all. Not many negatives.

Could have been great except for end organization

Really well-organized, good size, relatively fast

Big Race Organization, Small Race Comfort

Tobacco Road Marathon

Marathon Results