Carolina Beach State Park Trail Half Marathon & 5K
- Date Sat 3rd January 2026
- Time 8:00AM EST
- Location Carolina Beach, North Carolina
- Price $43.90 - $86.30
- Races 2 races
- Distances Half Marathon, 5km
Event summary
Get ready for an exhilarating day of adventure at the Carolina Beach State Park Trail Half Marathon & 5K, taking place on Saturday, January 3, 2026, in the stunning Carolina Beach, New Hanover. This exciting trail race invites participants of all abilities to tackle either the 13.1-mile half marathon or the shorter 3.1-mile 5K, both set against the backdrop of rolling pine forests and coastal beauty. Whether you're a seasoned runner or looking to enjoy a leisurely walk, this event offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in North Carolina's natural splendor.
The race kicks off at the American Legion Post #129, where participants can soak in the camaraderie and excitement before hitting the trails. Every finisher will receive a medal, and those 21 and older can unwind with a complimentary beer on the patio after the race. With a timed 5K and a half marathon that features a generous 3.5-hour cutoff, there's something for everyone at this unforgettable event. Plus, by participating, you're supporting the Friends of Pleasure Island State Parks, helping to preserve the beauty of this beloved area. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to race, connect with nature, and make a positive impact!
The race kicks off at the American Legion Post #129, where participants can soak in the camaraderie and excitement before hitting the trails. Every finisher will receive a medal, and those 21 and older can unwind with a complimentary beer on the patio after the race. With a timed 5K and a half marathon that features a generous 3.5-hour cutoff, there's something for everyone at this unforgettable event. Plus, by participating, you're supporting the Friends of Pleasure Island State Parks, helping to preserve the beauty of this beloved area. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to race, connect with nature, and make a positive impact!
Organiser's Description
WHAT
Carolina Beach State Park Trail Half Marathon & 5K
The Carolina Beach State Park Trail Half Marathon & 5K is a trail race in Carolina Beach, NC. With 13.1 and 3.1 mile courses, all levels of speed and ability are allotted an opportunity to race in one of the most unique setting in North Carolina. Rolling pine laced single track along the coast, offers participants tons of interesting terrain to take-in while they put out max effort for unique prizes. After the race, participants (21+) can enjoy one beer on the patio at the American Legion.
DATE
Saturday, January 3, 2026
START / FINISH LINE LOCATION
American Legion Post #129
1500 Bridge Barrier Road
Carolina Beach, NC 28428\
PARKING INFORMATION
Click HERE [https://runsignup.com/Race/CarolinaBeachStateParkTrailRace/Page-8]
DISTANCES OFFERED
5K - This event is timed. You can walk or run the 5K.
HALF MARATHON - This event is timed. There is a 3 hour and 30 minute cutoff time (16 minute per mile pace).
WAITING FOR YOU AT THE FINISH LINE
- Finisher Medal
- Beer provided to participants 21+ years old
- Snacks
- Water from Culligan
TO REGISTER
Click on Sign Up in the top right corner
TO REGISTER AT THE RACE
In Person registration at Packet Pickup and Race Day is digital. Participants will be asked to scan a QR code with their phone. Online registration is open until the race starts. Participants can also register in their car on their phone, then walk up to registration and pick up their packet.
RACE SCHEDULE
Please visit the Schedule Page [https://runsignup.com/Race/CarolinaBeachStateParkTrailRace/Page-2] for list of events.
PARKING
Parking is available at the nearby Food Lion. DO NOT park behind the Food Lion or near the loading docks, or you will be towed. This is to allow delivery trucks access to the Food Lion.
OTHER RACE DETAILS
_Participant Caps:_
Half Marathon: 300
5K: 300
_Course Cutoff: _
Half Marathon: 3.5 Hours (16 minute per mile pace)
HOW YOUR RACE MAKES A DIFFERENCE
Carolina Beach State Park Trail Half Marathon & 5K helps raise funds for Friends of Pleasure Island State Parks.
Friends of Pleasure Island State Parks is a non-profit organization designed to support and promote Carolina Beach State Park and Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. A donation by the race and participants directly benefits Friends of Pleasure Island State Parks.
Carolina Beach State Park Trail Half Marathon & 5K
The Carolina Beach State Park Trail Half Marathon & 5K is a trail race in Carolina Beach, NC. With 13.1 and 3.1 mile courses, all levels of speed and ability are allotted an opportunity to race in one of the most unique setting in North Carolina. Rolling pine laced single track along the coast, offers participants tons of interesting terrain to take-in while they put out max effort for unique prizes. After the race, participants (21+) can enjoy one beer on the patio at the American Legion.
DATE
Saturday, January 3, 2026
START / FINISH LINE LOCATION
American Legion Post #129
1500 Bridge Barrier Road
Carolina Beach, NC 28428\
PARKING INFORMATION
Click HERE [https://runsignup.com/Race/CarolinaBeachStateParkTrailRace/Page-8]
DISTANCES OFFERED
5K - This event is timed. You can walk or run the 5K.
HALF MARATHON - This event is timed. There is a 3 hour and 30 minute cutoff time (16 minute per mile pace).
WAITING FOR YOU AT THE FINISH LINE
- Finisher Medal
- Beer provided to participants 21+ years old
- Snacks
- Water from Culligan
TO REGISTER
Click on Sign Up in the top right corner
TO REGISTER AT THE RACE
In Person registration at Packet Pickup and Race Day is digital. Participants will be asked to scan a QR code with their phone. Online registration is open until the race starts. Participants can also register in their car on their phone, then walk up to registration and pick up their packet.
RACE SCHEDULE
Please visit the Schedule Page [https://runsignup.com/Race/CarolinaBeachStateParkTrailRace/Page-2] for list of events.
PARKING
Parking is available at the nearby Food Lion. DO NOT park behind the Food Lion or near the loading docks, or you will be towed. This is to allow delivery trucks access to the Food Lion.
OTHER RACE DETAILS
_Participant Caps:_
Half Marathon: 300
5K: 300
_Course Cutoff: _
Half Marathon: 3.5 Hours (16 minute per mile pace)
HOW YOUR RACE MAKES A DIFFERENCE
Carolina Beach State Park Trail Half Marathon & 5K helps raise funds for Friends of Pleasure Island State Parks.
Friends of Pleasure Island State Parks is a non-profit organization designed to support and promote Carolina Beach State Park and Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. A donation by the race and participants directly benefits Friends of Pleasure Island State Parks.
Races
-
Half Marathon
Incl. $6.30 Fee & Beanie
Sat 3rd January 2026 (8:00AM EST)
$86.30
CLOSED -
5k
Incl. $3.90 Fee & Beanie
Sat 3rd January 2026 (8:30AM EST)
$43.90
CLOSED
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American Legion Post #129, 1500 Bridge Barrier Rd., Carolina Beach, 28428, NC, United States
Carolina Beach State Park Trail Half Marathon & 5K
